PN must stay ‘open’ and show political maturity, says PAS leader

2026-03-05 - 09:04

PAS treasurer Iskandar Abdul Samad said PN leaders should avoid projecting any image that suggests a desire for revenge as they are always being watched and judged. (Facebook pic) PETALING JAYA: A PAS leader has urged Perikatan Nasional (PN) to remain open to accepting any party or organisation that shares its aspirations, saying the coalition’s leadership must demonstrate political maturity and openness to strengthen PN’s position. Iskandar Abdul Samad said leaders must show magnanimity by setting aside past disputes and conflicts for the sake of the nation’s future. “They should avoid projecting any image that suggests a desire for revenge, as the people are always watching and judging,” he said in a statement. Iskandar, who is PAS treasurer, however, stressed that this was his personal view. “A statesman should not harbour grudges. Instead, a statesman must be able to look towards a greater objective,” he added. Although Iskandar did not refer to any specific leader, his statement comes a day after Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin reportedly said he would oppose all efforts for his former deputy, Hamzah Zainudin, to rejoin PN under a new party. Muhyiddin said Hamzah, who was sacked from Bersatu last month at the height of a bitter feud with the former prime minister, was no longer trustworthy. Hamzah has confirmed holding discussions on taking over Parti Keluarga Malaysia. The party’s founder, Khairi Jaya, said the takeover was “90% confirmed”. Iskandar also said PN should not be seen as an exclusive platform for Malays. Instead, it should serve as a platform for all Malaysians who reject extremism and chauvinism in any form. Following his expulsion from Bersatu, Hamzah said his new “Reset” movement aims to build a new national consensus that genuinely unites people of all races, religions and regions, while calling for reform of institutions, systems and laws.