Perikatan Nasional (PN) is facing its most serious internal crisis since its formation in August 2020, following the resignation of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and a string of senior Bersatu leaders from key coalition positions. The developments, which unfolded on December 30, 2025, have exposed widening cracks within the opposition bloc and raised pressing questions about its future direction.
Muhyiddin announced that he would step down as PN chairman with effect from January 1, 2026, after five years at the helm. His decision was swiftly followed by the resignations of several prominent figures, including Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali as PN secretary-general, Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu as Perak PN chairman, Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal as Johor PN chairman, and Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker as Negeri Sembilan PN chairman. The coordinated departures signalled deep dissatisfaction within Bersatu over unresolved tensions inside the coalition.
The roots of the crisis can be traced to political upheaval in Perlis, where the position of menteri besar shifted from PAS to Bersatu. The move triggered accusations of betrayal and intensified mistrust between the two largest PN components. PAS leaders openly expressed displeasure, with the party offering to take over leadership of PN while calling for accountability over the Perlis episode.
Political analysts view the resignations as evidence of a serious breakdown in trust and coordination between PAS and Bersatu. Differences in managing power, state leadership transitions, and long-term political strategy have become increasingly difficult to reconcile, particularly during moments of crisis that demand unity and swift consensus. Observers warn that prolonged infighting risks eroding public confidence, especially among undecided voters and younger Malaysians who prioritise stability and clarity of leadership.
PN currently governs four states—Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and Perlis—but analysts caution that internal turmoil could weaken its standing as a credible alternative government. The question of leadership succession remains unresolved. If PAS assumes the chairmanship, perceptions among moderate supporters could shift, as the party is often viewed as ideologically rigid and untested in leading a multi-party national coalition. Conversely, appointing another Bersatu figure could further strain relations and worsen the crisis.
Speculation has also grown over whether PAS may reconsider its position within PN altogether. The party’s decision not to participate in the Perlis state executive council has been interpreted as a sign of deep frustration, particularly over Bersatu’s failure to act against assembly members involved in the power shift.
PAS leaders have confirmed that several names will be proposed for consideration as the new PN chairman at an upcoming supreme council meeting. At the same time, party figures and grassroots leaders have urged a comprehensive reassessment of the coalition, arguing that political cooperation must reflect current realities and long-term interests rather than emotional attachment.
As PN navigates this turbulent period, its ability to resolve leadership disputes and restore unity will determine whether the coalition can remain intact or slide further toward fragmentation ahead of future state elections and the 16th general election.
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