Efforts by former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to consolidate Malay-based political parties under a single coalition have drawn sharp criticism from PKR Youth, who view the initiative as a last-ditch effort to stir ethnic sentiment amid shifting political dynamics.
The controversial proposal, announced via the formation of the Malay People’s Secretariat, is being framed as a mission to "restore Malay power." However, PKR Youth has characterised the move as both provocative and indicative of political desperation. According to the youth wing, such rhetoric merely recycles divisive narratives at a time when the country is progressing under more inclusive leadership.
PKR Youth Deputy Chief Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari questioned the sincerity of the initiative, highlighting that the current Madani-led government, under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, comprises a broad coalition of parties representing Malaysia’s diverse society, with solid Malay leadership already in place. He argued that attempts to revive racial-centric platforms fail to acknowledge the country’s current political maturity.
He also criticized Perikatan Nasional (PN) for continuing to rely on confrontational and outdated strategies. Citing Mahathir's own history of forming breakaway parties like Bersatu and Pejuang after abandoning UMNO, Taufiq pointed out the irony of Mahathir now advocating unity. Similarly, PAS was called out for its role in ending the Muafakat Nasional pact with UMNO, a move that also contributed to the fragmentation of the Malay political landscape.
Referring to recent developments, Taufiq noted that Dr Mahathir's push was supported by leaders like PAS Deputy President Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, PN Chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, and Bersatu Deputy President Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin. Their presence at the coalition’s announcement, he suggested, was less about unity and more about political survival.
He questioned the true meaning behind the call to “restore Malay power,” describing the event as a gathering of discontented political figures attempting to distract the public with emotional appeals. He urged the Malay community not to be swayed by such tactics, asserting that national progress depends on moving forward, not returning to old divisions.
In closing, Taufiq called on Malaysians to reject regressive rhetoric and instead support a governance model rooted in inclusivity, stability, and genuine unity across all communities.
Information Source: WOB
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