Several Malay NGOs set to join Bersatu, says source

The source said several meetings had been held, with discussions now focusing on the roles and positions that could be offered to the NGO leaders within Bersatu.

(FMT) – The party source says that Berjasa, Putra, and Perkasa are in talks with Bersatu, aiming to play key roles and boost the party’s influence nationwide.

Several Malay NGOs are planning to join Bersatu in a bid to strengthen the party ahead of the 16th general election (GE16), according to a party leader who says the idea has received positive feedback from the top leadership.

Speaking to FMT, the source said several meetings had been held, with discussions now focusing on the roles and positions that could be offered to the NGO leaders within Bersatu.

It is understood that the NGOs involved include Berjasa, Putra, and Perkasa.

“Bersatu is considering giving them significant roles, such as positions on the information committee or the Supreme Council, in recognition of their leadership status within their respective NGOs,” the source said.

The party leader also said that the interest shown by these NGOs in joining Bersatu reflected the growing trust and acceptance of Muhyiddin Yassin’s leadership, compared to other Malay-based parties.

When asked whether the move would include the Mukhriz Mahathir-led Pejuang, the source said the development had nothing to do with political parties.

“No, it is unrelated. Pejuang previously sought to join Perikatan Nasional (PN), but these NGOs are specifically looking to join us (Bersatu).

“We believe their participation will further strengthen Bersatu’s influence and membership across the country,” the party leader said.

Pejuang applied to join PN in March last year, but its application was rejected that same month.

The party, founded by Dr Mahathir Mohamad in 2020 after his expulsion from Bersatu, suffered a complete loss in GE15 with all of its candidates – including Mahathir and Mukhriz – failing to win seats.

After PN rejected Pejuang’s application, its secretary-general at the time, Amiruddin Hamzah, expressed disappointment, saying PN had ignored the party’s efforts to avoid splitting the Malay vote.