Perlis Ruler Urges Political Unity Following Chief Minister Appointment

Political tensions in Malaysia’s smallest state, Perlis, have intensified following the recent appointment of a new chief minister. Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, the state’s ruler, has called on political parties to set aside their differences for the benefit of the state and its residents.

During the swearing-in ceremony on December 28, 2023, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin urged assembly members from the ruling coalition, Perikatan Nasional (PN), to work collaboratively. The coalition includes significant parties such as Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu). He expressed concern over the ongoing speculations and allegations surrounding the political upheaval and emphasized the need for unity.

“Various speculations and allegations, accusations and undesirable matters have occurred … I hope that after this all such matters will be stopped for the good of the state,” the ruler stated, as reported by Malay Mail.

The political turmoil began when Abu Bakar Hamzah of Bersatu was appointed as chief minister, replacing Mohd Shukri Ramli from PAS. Shukri resigned on Christmas Day due to health issues, shortly after eight state assembly members, three from PAS and five from Bersatu, retracted their support for him. The Perlis state assembly comprises 15 seats, with PAS holding six, Bersatu five, and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Parti Keadilan Rakyat one. Following the retraction, the three PAS assembly members were expelled from the party.

Calls for Unity Amid Internal Divisions

In his remarks, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin revealed that most assembly members had entrusted him with the decision regarding the new chief minister. He noted that they were willing to accept any choice he made. Furthermore, he sought to address potential rifts between PAS and Bersatu, urging both parties to reconcile for the state’s welfare.

Despite the ruler’s call for harmony, internal divisions remain evident within PAS. A leader from the party’s Youth division has publicly urged the central leadership to sever all ties with Bersatu. Mohamad Ikhwan Afiq Mohamad Anwar, head of the PAS Tasek Gelugor Youth Wing in Penang, criticized Bersatu for their alleged betrayal in Perlis and at the national level.

“This action is justifiable and fair in light of the treacherous and backstabbing moves by Bersatu,” he stated, as reported by Malay Mail. He called on PAS leadership to take immediate action to cut ties with Bersatu and reclaim all parliamentary and state assembly seats previously won under their alliance.

Last week, PAS Deputy President Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man also voiced concerns, urging Bersatu to discipline its assembly members who signed the declaration against Shukri. He emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline within the coalition to ensure that ties remain intact.

The political landscape in Perlis remains uncertain as leaders navigate these challenges. The ruler’s intervention highlights the ongoing struggle for stability in Malaysian politics, particularly within the PN coalition. As the situation evolves, the focus will remain on whether unity can be achieved for the benefit of the state and its people.