THE Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) has indicated it is willing to participate in a proposed “grand unity” initiative among Malay and Islamic political parties, on the condition that such a coalition is founded on governance that fulfils its obligations under Islamic law.
PAS President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang stated that the party draws inspiration from the example of the Prophet Muhammad in seeking a leadership model that combines Malay-Islamic solidarity with respect for the diverse communities governed under Islamic principles.
“PAS will reject any form of unity if leaders wield power for wealth or status, and are revered out of fear of their tyranny,” he said.
He added that the party could not endorse unity that remains silent in the face of injustice or sin, which ultimately causes division.
Abdul Hadi further emphasised that discussions regarding such coalitions must be guided by scholars with deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, rather than by those lacking knowledge.
“Solutions in Islam are rooted in knowledge, reason, and broad scholarship. They must be grounded in the immutable text of the Qur’an, yet adaptable to human and natural changes,” he explained.
He said PAS seeks a coalition led by a government that fulfils its duty to govern justly, entrusted by God, and followed out of respect for its fairness.
The remarks follow reports that UMNO intends to convene the top 10 leaders from each Malay and Islamic party to initiate the formation of a so-called “grand collaboration” without challenging the existing Unity Government.
UMNO President and Barisan Nasional Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed that no formal agreements or conditions have been set in launching the initiative.
Commenting on the possibility of cooperating to form a unity government, Abdul Hadi reiterated PAS’s rejection of coalitions that operate outside the bounds of Islamic law, particularly those aligned with the pluralist and liberal ideologies associated with some elements of the Pakatan Harapan coalition.
“Such a coalition cannot resolve the internal divisions of its constituent parties, let alone a broader coalition that is already collapsing from internal strife,” he said. “It is like passengers on a vessel riddled with leaks; even if it bears the label of ‘grand unity,’ its structural weaknesses only worsen.”
Abdul Hadi stressed that PAS cannot board a vessel that fails to manage disputes among its members or reconcile divergent agendas under the pretext of unity.
“The Prophet Muhammad rejected leadership over all parties without clear guidance on right and wrong, and without enduring vision.
“True Islamic unity establishes justice for all and promotes the welfare of everyone under leadership guided by piety,” he added. - January 19, 2026
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