KUALA LUMPUR – Seri Menanti candidate Datuk Seri Megat D. Shahriman Zaharuddin has backed any move by Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to forge a broader political alliance, stating that the party is prepared to work with like-minded partners in the country’s best interests.
Speaking to Scoop, the Bersatu candidate said any decision on forming a new coalition should be left to Muhyiddin, whom he described as an experienced leader with a deep understanding of the national political landscape.
“I leave that decision to the president because he is an experienced political leader who understands the bigger picture. Whatever decision he makes regarding alliances or a new coalition, I will support it.”
Megat said his background in sports had instilled the importance of teamwork and collective responsibility, values he intends to bring into politics.
“People know me as a team player, and I will continue to approach politics in the same way. The most important thing is to create harmony and maintain the public’s trust.”
Megat said any future coalition must be founded on common principles and a genuine commitment to serving the people.
“Any coalition must find common ground and work together for the benefit of the country. We live in a diverse nation with different races, religions and sensitivities, so cooperation must be handled carefully.”
Megat added that Bersatu was open to working with parties that sincerely champion national and public-interest issues without exploiting sensitive matters for political gain.
“I believe Bersatu is ready to work with parties that genuinely want to champion national issues and public interests, without politicising every sensitive matter involving race, religion or royalty.”
He said Bersatu’s long-term objective should be to unite different political components under a stronger and more stable platform.
“Bersatu has the potential to unite various components and build a stronger coalition in the future, Insya-Allah. The focus must always be on what is best for the people and the country.”
Megat is contesting the Seri Menanti seat in the Negeri Sembilan state election on Aug 1, with voters set to decide the composition of the state’s 36-seat legislative assembly.
His remarks come after Muhyiddin recently hinted at a broader political realignment following the election, including the possibility of forming a new alliance.
Muhyiddin said the proposed coalition could include parties outside Bersatu, including members of the Ikatan Prihatin Rakyat (IPR) coalition such as Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia (Putra) and Urimai.
He also expressed confidence that Bersatu is capable of standing on its own, citing the party’s nationwide organisational strength.
According to Muhyiddin, Bersatu has about 700,000 members, supported by more than 4,000 branches and 180 divisions nationwide. – July 22, 2026