KUALA LUMPUR: Former Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced his intention to vie for the presidency of his party in the upcoming internal elections next year, just a day after declaring his resignation from the position.
His decision to step down and pass the leadership baton of Bersatu has sparked speculation regarding the future leadership of the Malay-dominated opposition alliance, as Muhyiddin remains one of its prominent figures with widespread support.
“I will stay for the last term (as Bersatu president),” Muhyiddin said in a speech at the annual meeting of Bersatu, which leads the Perikatan Nasional opposition bloc along with a conservative Islamist party.
Muhyiddin, who helmed Malaysia from 2020 to 2021, stated that his decision to continue leading was made after discussing with his wife. However, uncertainty looms regarding potential challenges from Bersatu members for the presidency in the upcoming party elections.
Recent regional polls in August and the previous general election witnessed the opposition gaining ground among Malaysia’s predominantly ethnic-Malay Muslim populace. This growing support, especially among traditional Malays and the younger demographic, poses a threat to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s progressive, multi-ethnic coalition.
Having presided over Bersatu since its inception in 2016 and heading the Perikatan Nasional opposition alliance, Muhyiddin remains a pivotal figure amidst evolving political landscapes.
