BERSATU’S 8th Annual General Assembly has taken on heightened significance this year, as political observers view it as a key platform for reaffirming the leadership of party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in the run-up to Malaysia’s 16th General Election (GE16).
According to Ilham Centre executive director Hisomudin Bakar, the question of who Bersatu will name as its prime ministerial candidate cannot be taken lightly, as it is closely tied to grassroots confidence and the party’s leadership image within the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition.
“At the same time, there are voices both within and outside the party suggesting the need for an alternative figure to be put forward as the candidate for prime minister,” he said.
He also noted that recent remarks from PAS leaders have hinted at a possible re-evaluation of PN’s leadership and electoral strategy, implicitly casting doubt on Muhyiddin’s continued role as the coalition’s preferred figurehead.
“Bersatu must first clarify its stance on the prime ministerial candidate before sitting down with its coalition partners,” said Hisomudin.
“Only once that issue is resolved can the process of solidifying PN’s internal cooperation proceed effectively and strategically. In this context, the motion to name a PM candidate and the motion to strengthen the PN alliance are closely linked.”
He added that settling the matter is a prerequisite for offering a credible leadership alternative to voters and for maintaining political momentum ahead of GE16.
The general assembly, which runs until 7 September at the Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) in Shah Alam, is expected to focus heavily on the party’s direction and election preparations.
Meanwhile, Bersatu deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin urged party members to rise above political uncertainty and shape the future of Malaysian politics, rather than simply reacting to prevailing trends.
“Politics in the 21st century demands renewal, openness, courage, and relevance to the people’s current aspirations,” he said. “Let us not be lulled by nostalgia, for 21st-century politics also compels us to create future successes continuously.”
He called on Bersatu to be dynamic, morally grounded, and sustainable through excellence. “Bersatu must also have sustainability grounded in excellence,” he added.
Hamzah said the party must forge its identity through a spirit of inclusive nationalism to build a united and sovereign Malaysia.
He outlined three core principles to guide the party’s ideals: inclusiveness, moderation, democracy, integrity, and compassion; agility and innovation by challenging norms and driving reform; and resilience in the face of both internal and external pressures.
“We must not give up, despair or bow to any pressure,” he said.
Addressing the party wings, Hamzah called on them to become the “fortress of the party” – protecting the people and defending the nation.
“Organise and arrange the ranks firmly, unite our hearts in a strong bond, like a solidly built structure,” he said.
He urged continuous engagement with all segments of society, mastery of digital narratives – especially on social media – and a strategic, proactive approach to online political messaging.
“Boost political literacy and awareness of democratic values, especially among the youth,” he added. - September 6, 2025
