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2026-09-10 22:56 UTC → 2026-09-11 05:26 UTC ·
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The United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) and the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) have engaged in reciprocal gestures of political cooperation. In late August 2026, UMNO leadership extended an official invitation to PAS to attend During the 72nd UMNO General Assembly scheduled for September 9–12. UMNO Secretary-General Assembly, President Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki described Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi called for the move as a “gesture of respect” and a response 16th General Election (PRU-16) to previous invitations from PAS. Following this, UMNO confirmed that high-ranking officials, including the Secretary-General and Youth Chief, will attend be held soon. He introduced the 72nd PAS Annual Assembly in Kota Bharu from September 2 ‘Grand Collaboration’ concept, an initiative designed to 5. PAS Secretary-General Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan noted that such attendance reflects historical foster political connections between the two parties. As the 2026 General Assembly approaches, the decision understanding among Malay parties to invite PAS has caused friction within prevent divisive competition, without necessitating formal mergers. Zahid hinted at potential shifts in the Unity Government. Datuk Mahfuz Omar, Vice President of Amanah, questioned why political landscape, suggesting closer ties between UMNO and PAS was invited while UMNO’s coalition partner, Pakatan Harapan (PH), was excluded. could occur, using the phrase ‘when blue meets green.’ While positioning UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi clarified that as a political anchor, he maintained the invitation party’s openness to PAS was sharing power within a reciprocal gesture and expressed doubt that PH would have sent representatives even if invited. During multiracial society. Internal strategic views within the 2026 General Assembly, discussions shifted toward party independence and legacy. assembly remained varied. UMNO Deputy President Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan called for Youth Johor proposed treating the party to become self-reliant, arguing that UMNO must build its own strength rather than depending on cooperation current partnership with parties such as Pakatan Harapan, Perikatan Nasional, PAS, or DAP. Additionally, Harapan as a temporary arrangement to allow UMNO to regain dominance. Meanwhile, UMNO Women Chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad addressed the legacy of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, stating that while respecting the law, the party does not forget his contributions and can show “human compassion” regarding his ongoing legal processes. urged members to strengthen grassroots machinery to rebuild public trust.