FridayOL

PETALING JAYA: Bersatu's recent backing of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's initiative to forge a ‘Malay unity’ government has sparked debate and skepticism amongst political analysts. While the party has publicly stated a commitment to a more moderate and centrist political stance, questions are being raised about the sincerity of this shift, particularly given their recent history and the current political climate.

For months, Bersatu, under the leadership of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, had been positioning itself as a champion of Malay rights and interests, often adopting a more assertive and sometimes divisive tone. This pivot towards a perceived centrism, and now aligning with Dr Mahathir, a long-time political figure known for his own vision of national unity, has left many wondering about the party’s true motivations.

“The sudden support for Dr Mahathir’s initiative is certainly intriguing,” remarked political analyst Dr. Farid Abdul Hamid. “While a move towards the centre could be seen as a pragmatic strategy to broaden their appeal, it also raises questions about whether this is a genuine ideological shift or a calculated move to secure political advantage.”

Dr Mahathir’s proposal aims to unite various Malay-based parties, including Umno, PAS, and Bersatu, under a single banner to form a stable government. Critics argue that such an approach risks marginalizing other communities and undermining the principles of a multi-ethnic, multi-religious Malaysia.

The timing of Bersatu’s support is also significant. The party has been facing internal challenges and declining popularity, particularly after its involvement in the Sheraton Move in 2020, which led to a period of political instability. Aligning with Dr Mahathir could be seen as an attempt to regain relevance and appeal to a wider electorate.

However, some observers believe that Bersatu’s decision could also be driven by a genuine desire for political stability and a recognition that the current fragmented political landscape is unsustainable. The recent general election resulted in a hung parliament, highlighting the difficulty of forming a stable government.

“Perhaps Bersatu has realised that a more inclusive approach is necessary to achieve long-term political stability,” suggested political scientist Dr. Shalini Ramachandran. “However, they need to demonstrate a clear commitment to working with all communities, not just the Malay community, to truly be seen as a centrist party.”

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Bersatu’s support for Dr Mahathir’s initiative is a genuine shift towards a more moderate political position or simply a temporary alliance driven by short-term political calculations. The party's actions and statements will be closely scrutinized by both its supporters and critics as they navigate this complex and evolving political landscape. The success of Dr Mahathir's 'Malay unity' effort, and Bersatu's role within it, will ultimately shape the future of Malaysian politics.