COMMENT | The mood at PAS’ annual muktamar held this year at the Dewan Fadzil Noor, Kedah PAS Complex near Alor Setar was one of optimism.

There was a sense among the attendees that the time for the party to lead Malaysia is coming. From calls to decide the prime minister position to the high target of almost doubling parliament representation from 43 to 80 seats, PAS was showcasing the party’s dreams and ambitions – its great expectations.

PAS’ improved electoral fortunes, winning the lion’s share of Malay support, and increased wealth from control of four governments – Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and Perlis – is leading to changes in the party. The confidence was palpable, as was the display of position and power.

Yet in this rapid rise, there are inevitable tensions and contradictions. As in Charles Dickens’ novel about Pip Pirrip’s life story from humble beginnings, “Great Expectations”, the search for power and acceptance in a new status is hazardous.

PAS’ rise is an unfolding and unfinished story that rivals the intrigue and echoes some of the themes of the famous novel.

The muktamar...