Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party: history of creation

Abstract

The Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) is, after the ruling United Malays National Organization (UMNO), the most influential political party among the country's Malay population. The party emerged in 1948 as an organization for protecting the interests of students and graduates of Malay Muslim schools. It did not play an independent role in politics, and until 1951 was in solidarity with the UMNO on many issues. PAS continues to be one of the most influential opposition parties in Malaysia. In 2022, the number of party members exceeded one million people.