UMNO AGM Signals Push to End Madani Coalition and Boost Ties with PAS

The 2026 UMNO general assembly concluded with a clear message that the Madani coalition is close to its termination, a view voiced by president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi who openly criticized Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s policies and dared the premier to dismiss UMNO from the government. Although Zahid miscalculated the parliamentary math, he argued that removing UMNO could destabilise the administration. The party’s confidence has risen sharply since victories in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, driven by a wave of Malay unity bolstered by PAS.

Nonetheless, UMNO leaders remain cautious about PAS, demanding snap elections in PAS-controlled states to gauge genuine cooperation, especially in areas like Kedah and Terengganu where UMNO has lost ground. The assembly underscored UMNO’s intent to contest the next general election with a stronger bargaining position while still scrutinising its allies.