'Samsuri's prominence strategically calculated to address diverse political needs' - Analyst

SHAH ALAM - The rise to prominence of new Kemaman MP Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri is not a mere coincidence but a strategic move by the Pas party to address both immediate concerns and long-term aspirations.

Singapore Institute of International Affairs senior fellow Dr Oh Ei Sun said that the multifaceted nature of political endeavors often encompasses various timelines to meet numerous objectives.

"In engaging with the spectrum of fence-sitters, Samsuri emerges as a strategically presentable face for Pas, aligning with the party's efforts to broaden its appeal," Oh told Sinar Daily.

He said Samsuri's strategic positioning was not coincidental but a calculated move by Pas to broaden its reach and connect with a wider audience.

"Samsuri's presence enables Pas to resonate with fence-sitters and extend its reach to audiences previously less inclined towards their ideologies," Oh said.

By highlighting Samsuri's role as a bridge, Pas was signaling its commitment to a more inclusive image and effectively fulfilling both short and long-term objectives.

In discussing Pas's strategies, Institute of Ethnic Studies Professor Datuk Dr Shamsul Amri Baharuddin stressed Samsuri's role in the short term, considering the potential leadership transition due to Pas President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang's uncertain health.

"Learning from Umno's Tok Mat (Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan) dilemma, who was stuck in a parochial position, Samsuri must not confine himself to Terengganu but needs federal exposure.

"For the long term, he must expand his reach and connect with supporters across states," Shamsul said.

During the recently concluded Kemaman by-election in Terengganu, there was speculation that PN was grooming Samsuri to become a prime minister candidate.

Samsuri later retained the seat for Perikatan Nasional.