The Selangor PAS elected representatives' support for a ceasefire among opposition parties could lead to a bigger, stronger and more united opposition, said Pakatan Harapan chief secretary Saifuddin Abdullah.

He welcomed the 13 assemblyperson's statement today, adding he hoped it would lead to one-on-one contests between the opposition parties and BN in the next general election.

He also hoped Pakatan-led states Selangor and Penang's successes would spur more people to support the opposition as a viable alternative to the ruling coalition.

“This is especially so in Selangor, which has seen the successful nature of the Selangor government, in particular Pakatan and PAS, in running the affairs of the state,” Saifuddin told Malaysiakini.

“Selangor and Penang's success is vital to show that we are capable of administering well if given the mandate by the people to govern the federal government."

The 13 assemblypersons' support for Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man's ceasefire offer comes despite PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan claiming it was merely the deputy president's personal idea.

Sijangkang PAS assemblyperson Ahmad Yunus Hairi and Meru assemblyperson Abdul Rani Osman confirmed with Malaysiakini the authenticity of an open statement of support uploaded on the Internet.

"Yes, it is true," Rani said briefly in a test message, while Yunus, who is also a Selangor exco member, added it does not mean they are against party president Abdul Hadi Awang.

Five days ago, Tuan Ibrahim called for the opposition to stop attacking one another and only focus on its fight against BN.

However, the PAS number two said that this was his own personal opinion, to stave off other opposition parties' attacks against PAS.