After PKM setback, Hamzah dismisses PCM takeover rumours

Larut MP Hamzah Zainudin has dismissed reports that he is set to take over Parti Cinta Malaysia (PCM), describing them as mere speculation.

Berita Harian quoted Hamzah as saying, “That is merely their claim,” before declining to comment further.

However, Sin Chew quoted a PCM source two days ago who revealed that Hamzah was purportedly in talks with the PCM leadership over a possible takeover and plan to field ex-Bersatu leaders in the upcoming elections.

A PCM party veteran reportedly said discussions are still preliminary, with PCM open to talks, while Hamzah is also exploring other political options.

Since Hamzah’s expulsion from Bersatu, the former deputy president has launched a political movement known as “Reset”, which has fuelled speculation that it could eventually be formalised as a political party ahead of the next elections.

Although he has repeatedly stressed that his movement will remain aligned with Perikatan Nasional, Berita Harian reported on May 18 that the coalition, chaired by PAS vice-president Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, had decided against admitting new component parties.

Speaking today, Hamzah said cooperation with PAS in the run-up to the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections would form a key part of his political strategy to safeguard development plans and the interests of the people.

“For now, the close relationship we have with PAS will be utilised to formulate a political approach capable of guaranteeing stability, prosperity, and the well-being of the people in both states.

“We are discussing the future, and that future does not mean the future of my party alone,” said the former minister.

“We have friends such as PAS who also want to help shape the future of the people of Johor.

“We want to ensure that all development plans and future agendas can be implemented successfully,” he was quoted as saying.

Hamzah also said he and PAS would continue working together to defend the interests of the people and oppose any group deemed as threatening the stability in Johor and Negeri Sembilan.

“Together with PAS, we will sit down and discuss. If there are groups that can undermine Johor’s position, we will oppose them wholeheartedly,” he said.

It was previously reported that Hamzah’s attempt to take over and register Parti Keluarga Malaysia (PKM) had failed, prompting speculation that he could instead seek control of another dormant political party.

Should he fail to secure a party platform, Hamzah and other MPs expelled from Bersatu are expected to be classified as independents when the Dewan Rakyat reconvenes on June 22.

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