Malaysia

Hamzah remains silent on Opposition leader role as party discussions continue

Decision on parliamentary leadership deferred as Perikatan Nasional confirms internal consultations

Updated 6 months ago · Published on 23 Feb 2026 4:22PM

Hamzah remains silent on Opposition leader role as party discussions continue
“We cannot make all decisions at once. What is important is that we have appointed the PN Chairman,” Pendang MP says - February 23, 2026

FORMER Bersatu Deputy President Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin declined to comment on his position as Opposition leader in Parliament today, leaving the question unresolved as party deliberations continue.

“Wait,” he said tersely when approached by reporters in the Dewan Rakyat following a briefing by the Department of Legal Affairs.

Datuk Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang), who was present with Hamzah, explained that a final decision would be made at a later date.

“I will respond to that question. We have already concluded matters at the Perikatan Nasional (PN) level. That is the main point. Other matters will follow later.

“We cannot make all decisions at once. What is important is that we have appointed the PN Chairman,” he said.

Deputy President of Bersatu, Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin, reiterated Awang’s statement and urged the media to exercise patience while consultations are ongoing.

Former Bersatu member, Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan, confirmed that Hamzah continues to hold the position of Opposition Leader.

“I believe the decision on who should serve as Opposition Leader should be made by the Members of Parliament themselves.

“We will see what PN decides, but I trust the new PN Chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, will make the best decision,” he said.

On whether the leadership role might now go to a PAS representative, Wan Saiful noted that nominations will be made by the party.

“Who they choose to nominate is up to PAS. For example, Hamzah was previously nominated by PAS,” he added, expressing his personal hope that Hamzah remains in the role.

He also urged that the matter be resolved within the week to prevent any uncertainty, affirming that the opposition bloc, comprising 18 MPs, continues to support Hamzah. - February 23, 2026

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