COMMENT | Recent political manoeuvring suggests that Malaysia may already be witnessing the early formation of a new governing alignment: one that quietly transcends the formal boundaries of the Madani government.

The evidence does not lie in dramatic announcements or formal declarations, but in patterns of behaviour that, taken together, point toward a strategic recalibration of power.

Umno’s sustained pressure on DAP, PKR’s strategic silence, PAS’ calculated restraint, and the quiet normalisation of cross-party cooperation all suggest that a new coalition logic is being tested in real time.

PAS’ conduct is particularly revealing. Despite positioning itself as the principal opposition force following the 15th general election, PAS has noticeably softened its rhetoric against the Madani government and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

The party’s attacks are selective, restrained, and often focused more on symbolic issues than on direct challenges to federal authority. This restraint should not be mistaken for moderation. It reflects strategic calculation.

PAS-governed states continue to...