PETALING JAYA: PAS remains firm in rejecting cooperation with Pakatan Harapan in the upcoming Melaka state election, while remaining open to political pacts that ensure Malay-Muslim leadership for the state.
PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang said that although the polling date had yet to be announced, party machinery and central leadership were actively negotiating seat allocations based on consensus, reported Sinar Harian.
"What is important is that Melaka must be led by Malay Muslims. We reject Pakatan Harapan," Abdul Hadi told reporters after delivering a lecture at the Rusila Mosque on Friday (Oct 2).
The Melaka state assembly was dissolved on Sept 23 to pave the way for state polls.
Regarding seat distribution, Abdul Hadi expressed confidence that negotiations with allies would proceed smoothly without major clashes, though final seat numbers remained unconfirmed.
Addressing uncertainty surrounding the Perikatan Nasional symbol, Abdul Hadi affirmed that PAS was prepared to field candidates under its own "moon" logo.
"PAS can use its own logo. There is no problem," he said, adding that the option remained under active consideration.
The logo issue follows the Registrar of Societies' (RoS) decision on Sept 24 to suspend Perikatan activities under subsection 13(2A) of the Societies Act 1966 (Act 832) over constitutional compliance issues.
Addressing hesitation among state Barisan Nasional leaders regarding electoral pacts, Abdul Hadi said the choice rested entirely with them.
However, the Marang MP claimed that Barisan grassroots supporters favored unity efforts with PAS to secure Malay-Muslim governance in Melaka.
"I have found that most Barisan supporters agree with cooperation with PAS.
"If Barisan wants to seek cooperation, we agree. Everything will be discussed,” he said.
