KUALA LUMPUR – PAS Information Chief, Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, has expressed skepticism regarding the “Kolaborasi Agung” (Grand Collaboration) initiative proposed by UMNO, labeling it as a vague concept that lacks a definitive roadmap and objective.
The proposal, which was introduced by UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi during the 2025 UMNO General Assembly, aims to establish a “loose collaboration” among Malay-Muslim political entities. However, Fadhli argues that while the terminology is grand, the actual substance remains unconvincing.
Lack of Strategic Clarity
In a statement released on Monday, the Pasir Mas Member of Parliament questioned the ultimate political goal of the initiative. He pointed out what he perceives as a lack of consistency in how the idea is being presented to the public.
“Kolaborasi Agung and ‘Rumah Bangsa’ (House of the Nation) are essentially ideas that have yet to take a definitive shape or direction. The name is impressive, but the content fails to reassure,” Fadhli stated.
Conflicting Narratives
Fadhli further highlighted contradictions within UMNO’s leadership. He noted that while UMNO Information Chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said clarified that the proposal is not a political pact intended to challenge the current government, other leaders have emphasized its importance in the lead-up to the 16th General Election (GE16).
“If this is not a political collaboration, why is there a push to realize it before GE16?” he questioned.
Taking a satirical swipe at the proposal, Fadhli suggested that if the intent is purely non-political, it should be treated as a social gathering or a community feast (kenduri) rather than a major national movement.
Path Toward Unity
The “Kolaborasi Agung” was originally framed by Ahmad Zahid as an initial step toward broader Malay-Muslim unification. He described it as a flexible framework rather than the formation of a new political party.
While UMNO views the move as an inclusive step for the community, the cold reception from PAS—the nation’s largest Malay-based opposition party—suggests that the road toward this “Grand Collaboration” remains fraught with political hurdles. (Kayla Shabirah)
