The formation of a political bloc between PAS and Parti Ikatan Bangsa Malaysia (Ikatan) is not the ideal third force that the country needs, said a political pundit.

What would be useful for Malaysia is an alternative coalition that appeals to those who reject race-based and religion-based politics, said political commentator Tang Ah Chai.

"A third force should fight for good governance and anti-corruption, instead of (using) the racial and religious discourse," he told Malaysiakini .