An analyst sees Nur Jazlan Mohamed’s demand for PAS to show its sincerity in pursuing Malay unity as Umno’s way to get a quick route to the SG4 states. (Bernama pic)PETALING JAYA: Umno appears to be seeking a shortcut to gaining ground in the four PAS-dominated states, collectively known as SG4, by challenging the Islamic party to give up a third of the seats there to demonstrate its sincerity, an analyst says.

Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia said the demand by Umno Supreme Council member Nur Jazlan Mohamed was clearly a manoeuvre to help the Barisan Nasional linchpin regain some ground in Kedah, Terengganu, Kelantan and Perlis.

Syaza Shukri.“I see this really as Umno looking for an easy way to break through, especially in states like Terengganu and Kedah, where its influence has long been on the decline," she told FMT.