How does PAS aim to unite Malay power under its leadership?

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PAS's Strategy for Consolidating Malay Political Power

PAS is pursuing a multifaceted strategy to consolidate Malay political power under its leadership, primarily by focusing on identity politics and framing itself as the ultimate defender of Malay-Muslim interests. This approach bypasses detailed policy discussions, instead repeatedly posing the question, "Do you want Malay leadership?" to resonate with its base. The party aims to leverage electoral victories, even those of coalition partners, to strengthen its position within a broader Malay political bloc, ultimately seeking to lead this union.
Leveraging Electoral Gains for Political Consolidation

PAS's strategy involves integrating electoral successes, including those of its coalition partners, into a larger framework of Malay political unity, which it envisions being led by PAS itself. The party believes that any victory by Barisan Nasional (BN) that results in Malay-first administrations can ultimately be absorbed into this envisioned union, effectively making a BN win a PAS win if all parties eventually agree to operate under PAS's leadership. This tactic is exemplified by PAS President Hadi Awang's promise to cede PAS's victories to shore up Umno's seat count, subtly encouraging its supporters to favour BN candidates over Perikatan Nasional (PN) candidates in direct electoral contests where BN and Pakatan Harapan were competing.
Intensifying Pressure through "Us vs. Us" Narratives

The party aims to intensify pressure on other Malay political entities by cultivating an "us against us" narrative, specifically an "armageddon" scenario focused on race. This strategy is designed to create a feverish atmosphere around Malay identity, positioning PAS as the most uncompromising advocate for race politics. This approach allows PAS to systematically weaken its coalition partners, such as Bersatu, through a process of attrition while simultaneously elevating its own standing within the broader right-wing political landscape.
Framing External Threats to Foster Muslim Solidarity

A key component of PAS's strategy is to foster Muslim solidarity by raising the spectre of external threats, particularly by identifying the Democratic Action Party (DAP) as an existential danger to the Muslim way of life. By emphasizing these perceived threats, PAS seeks to rally Malay-Muslim voters around its banner, portraying itself as the bulwark against forces that could undermine their religious and cultural identity. This narrative serves to solidify its base and present itself as the most committed party to the cause of Islam in the country.

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How does PAS aim to unite Malay power under its leadership?

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