JOHOR BAHRU – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has adopted a hands-off approach to the internal turmoil gripping Bersatu, the country’s largest Malay-majority party. Responding to questions about the status of Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin as opposition leader following his expulsion from Bersatu, Anwar simply stated, “Let them fight first,” according to reports from February 15, 2026. This statement signals a reluctance by the current administration to intervene directly in the opposition’s internal struggles, particularly as they relate to the leadership of the political bloc.
The comment came after a closed-door gathering of the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), the leading party within the ruling coalition, where leaders were urged to strengthen the party’s base and intensify their efforts. The situation within Bersatu is complex, stemming from a power struggle between factions loyal to former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin and those aligned with Hamzah Zainudin. The expulsion of Hamzah Zainudin, a key figure in the Perikatan Nasional coalition, has deepened the divisions and raised questions about the future direction of the opposition. Understanding the dynamics of Hamzah Zainudin’s political career is crucial to understanding the current crisis.
Internal Party Discipline and Ongoing Investigations
During the PKR gathering, Anwar Ibrahim also emphasized the importance of internal party discipline, reminding members to utilize established channels for voicing grievances rather than airing them publicly. This directive suggests a desire to maintain a unified front and avoid further fragmentation within the ruling coalition. He specifically urged all party branches to hold meetings to ensure that concerns are formally documented and addressed through official meeting minutes. This focus on internal processes reflects a broader effort to streamline decision-making and enhance accountability within the PKR.
The Prime Minister also addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding Tan Sri Azam Baki, the commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). Anwar confirmed that the investigation process is still underway, offering no further details. This case has drawn significant public attention and raised concerns about the independence and integrity of the MACC. The investigation into Azam Baki centers around allegations of conflict of interest related to his share ownership in a company. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the fight against corruption in Malaysia.
Economic Reforms and Tax Collection
Beyond the political landscape, Anwar Ibrahim also briefed PKR leaders on the government’s ongoing reform agenda, particularly those related to the civil service. He reportedly stressed the importance of courage in collecting taxes from wealthy individuals and corporations, stating, “It takes guts and courage to collect taxes from powerful people, including billionaires.” This statement underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring a fairer and more equitable tax system. The government’s economic policies are aimed at fostering sustainable growth and reducing income inequality.
According to an anonymous PKR leader, Anwar also highlighted the country’s strong economic performance, which has exceeded initial predictions. While specific figures were not released, this positive assessment suggests that the government’s economic policies are beginning to yield results. Malaysia’s economy has shown resilience in the face of global economic headwinds, driven by strong exports and domestic demand. The government is focused on attracting foreign investment and creating high-paying jobs.
The Expulsion and Its Implications
The expulsion of Hamzah Zainudin from Bersatu marks a significant escalation in the internal conflict within the party. As reported by the Strait Times, the move is seen as a direct challenge to his leadership and a consolidation of power by Muhyiddin Yassin. Hamzah Zainudin had previously served as the Secretary-General of Perikatan Nasional and Minister of Home Affairs. His removal from Bersatu raises questions about the stability of the opposition coalition and its ability to effectively challenge the ruling government. The fallout from this expulsion is likely to continue in the coming weeks and months, potentially leading to further realignments within the Malaysian political landscape.
The broader context of this political maneuvering is the upcoming elections. The internal strife within Bersatu and the Perikatan Nasional coalition could weaken their electoral prospects, potentially benefiting the ruling Pakatan Harapan coalition led by Anwar Ibrahim. The ability of the opposition to present a united front will be crucial in determining the outcome of the next election. The current situation highlights the fragility of political alliances and the importance of strong leadership in navigating complex political challenges.
The Prime Minister’s “let them fight” comment reflects a calculated decision to avoid getting entangled in the opposition’s internal affairs. By allowing the conflict to play out, Anwar Ibrahim hopes to expose the weaknesses of the opposition and strengthen his own position. This strategy also allows the government to focus on its reform agenda and economic policies without being distracted by the opposition’s internal struggles. The next key development to watch will be the Perikatan Nasional coalition’s response to Hamzah Zainudin’s expulsion and the selection of a new opposition leader.
Readers seeking information about the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission can find more details on their official website: https://www.sprm.gov.my/. For updates on Malaysian political news, reputable sources include The Star and Reuters.
This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Please share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.
