02/06/2026
Politics in the Peninsula
At The End of The Day, Only Three Parties Will Survive
Imagine Malaysian politics as a 'reality show' that never ends its episodes. Full of plot twists, broken alliances, and characters who disappear into thin air. But if we look at the current trends, maybe in another 10 years, the political stage in Peninsular Malaysia will become more “streamlined”. Only three main actors left: UMNO, DAP, and PAS.
The rest? They might become history.
PKR – From Hope to Question Mark
PKR was once the most “sexy” party in our politics. Anwar Ibrahim, reformasi, multiracial – it had everything. But today, the party feels like a ship leaking from all directions. Many members have started looking for “lifeboats”.
My prediction? PKR will slowly fade away. Not tomorrow, but the process has already begun. Its pragmatic, power-hungry members will split:
- The majority will go to UMNO(still strong with its traditional machinery and Malay support)
- Some will head to DAP (especially the progressives, Chinese, Indians, and urban folks)
- A small group of ultra-conservatives might join PAS
Bersatu – The “King Maker” Who Became “King Loser”
Bersatu was born with big cheers. “The new Malay party!” they said. But after a series of rather… strange political decisions, the party seems to have lost direction.
Most of its members will return to UMNO. Some will go to PAS. Bersatu feels like a “loaner” party – many borrowed power, but when things get tough, they go back to their original homes.
MUDA, Bersama, and Other Small Parties
MUDA is full of spirit. Young people, contemporary issues, TikTok vibes. But Malaysian politics is still tough. Money, structure, and grassroots support are still king. MUDA might end up like other small parties – gone or absorbed.
BERSAMA also doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. Its idealistic members might join DAP or UMNO, which are more “realistic”.
Team Reset Hamzah?
Hamzah Zainudin and his group seem to be hitting the “reset button”. There are signs they are more comfortable with PAS and UMNO. If true, this further strengthens the “three major parties” theory.
Why Society Should Vote for PAS?
If UMNO is strong with its old machinery and DAP is solid in the cities, PAS has its own appeal that many people cannot deny.
- Islamic Values and Morality: PAS is seen as the party most consistent in fighting for Islamic syariah, religious education, and societal morals. For those worried about gambling, alcohol, LGBT issues, and moral decline, PAS feels like the “last fortress”.
- Development of Professionals: This is what’s increasingly catching attention. PAS is no longer just a party of ustaz, tok gurus, and rural voters. In the last 10–15 years, they have actively recruited and developed professionals – doctors, lawyers, engineers, accountants, university lecturers, tech experts, and corporate managers. Many highly educated young Malay professionals now see PAS as a platform where they can contribute without having to “sell out” their religious principles.
The result? PAS is now better equipped to discuss modern economic issues, healthcare, quality education, and state development with a professional approach. They no longer rely 100% on religious charisma alone, but are starting to combine worldly knowledge with Islamic values. This makes the party look more mature and reliable for governing in today’s era.
- Track Record in the States: They have governed Kelantan and Terengganu for many years. Although there is criticism, many say crime is more controlled, communities are closer-knit, and social aid for the poor (especially Muslims) is more targeted.
- Clean Image & Discipline: Compared to parties hit by massive corruption scandals, PAS is rarely linked to crazy financial scandals. Its members appear more disciplined and don’t like open “power trading”.
- Voice of Rural & Conservative Folks: For rural, coastal, and those who want religion-based politics, PAS is the safest choice.
- Check & Balance: A strong PAS can act as a counterweight to DAP’s overly secular/liberal stance, and UMNO’s sometimes overly “pragmatic” approach that loosens principles and series of corruption.
But remember, no party is perfect. Some say PAS is still quite rigid on several issues, struggles to attract big investments, and sometimes their politics are too “black and white”. So, voting PAS makes sense if you truly want a strong Islamic direction combined with an increasing number of professionals bringing fresh ideas.
In 10 Years, What Will It Look Like?
I predict the political landscape in the Peninsula will be clearer:
- UMNO vs PAS fighting for the hearts of Malays/Muslims
- DAP continues as the dominant urban and minority party
- Governments will be formed through coalitions or “understandings” between these three
This could be good (more stable politics, fewer small parties causing chaos) or dangerous (fewer choices, less competition, risk of “old school” politics returning).
What do you think?
Is Malaysian politics really heading towards these three major parties? Or could there be a new party that becomes the “black horse” in the next 10 years? And which reason makes you more inclined to vote for PAS?
Our politics is like a drama. Sometimes the plot doesn’t make sense, but it’s always interesting to watch.
Let’s see if this prediction is accurate or becomes a joke by 2035. 😏
Dr Mazri Yahya
AJK PAS Pusat
1st June 2026
