PAS leaders in Perak have met unofficially with Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan representatives to discuss the possibility of forming a coalition government with either one.

State PAS commissioner Razman Zakaria said the party aims to conclude talks and form the state government within a week.

“PH cannot form the government on its own. BN, too. So, we are the kingmaker.

“The basis of any cooperation is that PAS’ goals cannot be blocked, like our struggle to enact RUU355,” he said, referring to the Shariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965.

In the 14th general election yesterday, PH won 29 state seats in Perak, BN (27) and PAS (3). For a state government to be formed, a simple majority of 30 seats must be achieved.

Razman said it is clear that PH component DAP opposes PAS’ bid to enact RUU355, and that “such blocking is very insulting”.

He said PAS also takes issue with unfair land distribution, cronyism, the privatisation of public services and having a monopoly on their management, which are common problems in BN-ruled states.

However, he did not name the coalition associated with such problems.

These are among the core issues that PAS is taking into account in setting its terms and conditions to cooperate with either PH or BN.

Razman said there will be a meeting tomorrow with PAS’ top leadership.

Meanwhile, PAS vice-president Idris Ahmad has denied rumours that the party has reached an agreement with BN to form the Perak government.

Caretaker menteri besar Zambry Abd Kadir was supposed to hold a press conference today, but it did not materialise.

State PH leaders have remained mum since announcing late last night that they will seek the sultan’s advice on the matter. – May 10, 2018.