How Rafizi-led ‘Bersama’ could disrupt Malaysia’s political calculus

Former federal ministers Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad officially launched Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) on May 20, marking a significant political realignment in Malaysia. Both leaders resigned from their parliamentary seats on Monday after exiting the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition’s PKR party, citing irregularities in last year’s internal elections. Bersama positions itself as an independent, policy-focused alternative, targeting urban, multi-ethnic, and centrist constituencies traditionally held by PH. Analysts warn this could fragment the liberal vote base, benefiting conservative opposition parties in tight races. Rafizi and Nik Nazmi have already confirmed bids in Pandan and Setiawangsa, with speculation they will contest Subang—a seat with a similar demographic profile. While some hope Bersama could build a strong ‘third force,’ political history suggests small breakaway parties rarely succeed without aligning with larger coalitions. PKR itself began as an Umno splinter but required partnerships with PAS and DAP to gain traction. Even Muda, led by former minister Syed Saddiq, struggled to establish a lasting presence. With no coalition projected to win a clear majority in the next election, Bersama’s five to ten seats could make it a critical swing vote. Though Rafizi has emphasized maintaining independence, analysts suggest the party could leverage its position to demand policy concessions in confidence-and-supply negotiations. The party’s future hinges on whether it can consolidate support beyond its PKR base or remain a fleeting disruption in Malaysia’s two-party political landscape.