Umno leaders weigh coalition risks at General Assembly

During the Umno General Assembly, party leaders addressed potential coalition strategies and regional political stability. In Terengganu, Umno leaders urged party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to exercise extreme caution regarding any potential negotiations with PAS. Ahmad Razif Abdul Rahman warned that poorly structured deals could lead to a repeat of the 2023 state election, where PAS-led Perikatan Nasional won all 32 seats in the state, leaving Umno without representation.

In Pahang, Umno vice-president and Pahang menteri besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail expressed confidence in the party's ability to retain the state in the next election. He noted that while a pact with Perikatan Nasional could lead to a comfortable win, partnering with Pakatan Harapan might result in a 15% loss of Malay votes. He emphasized that while going solo is a risky option, the central leadership will make the final decision on any future cooperation.