How does PAS use identity politics to unite Malay-Muslim voters?

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PAS Leverages Race and Religious Identity to Consolidate Malay-Muslim Support

PAS employs a strategy focused on race politics to unite Malay-Muslim voters, often bypassing discussions on policy and development. The party consistently poses the question, "Do you want Malay leadership?" to its electorate. This approach aims to intensify pressure within the Muafakat Nasional framework, positioning any victory by Barisan Nasional as a win for PAS if it ultimately falls under PAS's leadership. PAS President Hadi Awang has also pledged to cede PAS's electoral gains to bolster Umno if the latter lacks sufficient support, encouraging PAS supporters to favour BN candidates over Perikatan Nasional (PN) contenders in direct electoral contests between BN and Pakatan.
Emphasis on Malay Leadership and Political Consolidation

PAS's overarching strategy is to secure Muslim solidarity by highlighting the perceived existential threat posed by the Democratic Action Party (DAP) to the Muslim way of life. This narrative is reinforced by rhetoric that emphasizes differing origins among Malaysians, suggesting a permanent societal division. The party seeks to be recognised as the most committed to religious causes, effectively aiming to control the religious discourse. This focus on identity politics, while potentially galvanising its base, risks deepening national divisions at the expense of effective governance and broader national unity.
Strategic Electoral Alliances and Influence

The party's electoral tactics involve leveraging its gains to influence broader coalition dynamics. For instance, PAS's willingness to support Umno, even at the expense of its coalition partners, is a calculated move to consolidate power. This strategy is evident in Hadi Awang's promise to transfer PAS's wins to Umno, thereby encouraging PAS's supporters to back BN candidates in certain key constituencies. This tactic aims to weaken rivals and position PAS as a dominant force within any future Malay-centric political alignment.
The "Extra Hot" Political Positioning

Within the broader political landscape, PAS is described as occupying the "extra hot" segment of the political spectrum, alongside other Malay-centric parties like Wawasan, Pejuang, and Putra. This positioning signifies an unapologetic stance on race politics, contrasting with more moderate approaches. This singular focus, while potentially risky if counter-arguments gain traction, creates a "blue ocean" opportunity for PAS to advance its agenda by shaping narratives around identity drives. The historical parallels drawn to events in Iran, China, and Russia illustrate how such identity-driven movements can gain momentum and ultimately reshape political landscapes.

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How does PAS use identity politics to unite Malay-Muslim voters?

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