'Business as usual': Perlis MB defies Bersatu suspension, firmly at helm

KUALA LUMPUR - Perlis Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah has struck a defiant tone following his suspension from Bersatu, declaring that state administration remains stable and operating business as usual under his leadership. Clarifying that the disciplinary action is purely an internal party affair, Abu Bakar reaffirmed his mandate to govern under the Perlis State Constitution. "The party’s suspension decision has zero impact on the state government's administration, and certain parties must not confuse the two," Abu Bakar was quoted as saying by Berita Harian. "As a leader and member, the suspension is a party matter. As Chief Minister, I remain in office to continue leading the state government in accordance with the Perlis State Constitution," he added. The response comes after Bersatu Perlis Chairman Izizam Ibrahim confirmed yesterday that Abu Bakar’s party rights had been suspended effective October 13 for breaching Clause 9.1.4 of the party constitution, as well as its Code of Ethics and Conduct. The decision was formalized in an October 14 letter signed by Bersatu Disciplinary Board Chairman Datuk Mohd Radzi Manan. Along with the suspension, which spans two party election terms, Abu Bakar was stripped of all internal party positions. He has been given a 14-day window to file an official appeal with the Bersatu Appeals Board—a step he confirmed he will pursue through official channels. Offering further stability to the administration, Perlis State Legislative Assembly Speaker Rus'sele Eizan confirmed that state governance proceeds without disruption. He noted, however, that the long-term political landscape in the state also hinges on the stance of the six PAS state assemblymen in Perlis. - October 22, 2026 The post 'Business as usual': Perlis MB defies Bersatu suspension, firmly at helm appeared first on Scoop .