KUALA LUMPUR, June 26 — Several Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders said that the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) is likely to position itself as a “third force” in the upcoming six state elections.

Free Malaysia Today (FMT) reported today that a PH insider said that Muda, led by Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, is expected to announce its electoral plans today and intends to collaborate with suspended or expelled members of Umno.

“They will basically be going along with Umno members who have been suspended or sacked,” the PH insider who wished to remain anonymous was quoted as saying by the news portal.

The source also said that Muda aims to divide the votes, particularly in Selangor, where it has a stronger following.

Another PH leader added that despite Muda’s interest in participating, PH has not given them much attention or invited them to meetings.

However, PH leaders are not concerned about Muda’s declining support and believe their popularity is diminishing.

“In the 2022 general election, Syed Saddiq’s majority (support) was reduced. This is proof that their popularity is waning,” the source was quoted as saying by FMT.

The news portal also reported that a source from Muda said that the party will make an announcement on Monday (today) regarding their plans for the elections.

“Yes, we will make an announcement on Monday,” the source was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, a different source from Muda stated that the ongoing discussion regarding their participation in the elections as a third force is nearing its conclusion, and they will soon reveal their decision to the public.

“They (PH) have not called us for any discussion when it comes to negotiations at all. We want to be a part (of the coalition) but it just seems like they are not respecting us,” the source was quoted as saying.

In November 2022, Muda had applied to join PH but faced disagreement among PH coalition partners, with some viewing Muda as a liability and fearing complications in seat allocations.

Muda had also previously expressed disappointment at not being invited to the unity government secretariat’s first meeting held on February 7.