Implications of a fictional offer: Understanding PAS’ strategy behind Hadi’s ‘daydream’

PAS President Abdul Hadi Awang made headlines this week after he claimed that the Islamist party was offered to work with the Unity government.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his deputy Ahmad Zahid Hamidi were quick to deny making such an offer.

This raised many questions. Did Hadi conjure a fairytale offer to play political mind games ahead of the state elections in six states?

To help us understand the implications of the narrative pushed by Hadi, KiniTV spoke to political scientist Professor Dr Wong Chin Huat, and professor of Asian Studies at the University of Tasmania Professor Dr James Chin.

James Chin suggests that PAS' claim of being approached to join the government is a political maneuver.

PAS aims to portray itself as having stronger Malay support compared to Anwar's party.

This move is strategic, especially considering the upcoming state elections and the significance of the Malay electorate.

Meanwhile, Chin Huat explains that the concept of unity is a powerful tool in Malay politics, as it holds mainstream appeal.

He states that it is unlikely for PAS to accept any offer that would make them a secondary player unless they perceive themselves as weak in the upcoming state elections or in the aftermath of the polls.

However, at present, PAS does not seem to be in such a position.