PAS has activated its election machinery and the Barisan Alternatif (BA) is finalising its common manifesto and seat allocation among component parties in anticipation of a snap general election.

Disclosing this today, PAS president Fadzil Mohd Noor also said that the BA was reviewing its election strategies to ensure a better performance in the coming polls.

He also did not rule out the possibility of PAS working with DAP, a former BA ally during the elections.

"We will review our strategies either with BA partners or those outside BA. We are ready to engage with any party in search of a common stand for our common benefit," said Fadzil at the opening of the PAS annual general meeting or muktamar in Kelantan.

He pointed out that since Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad had hinted about an early election, all BA parties must also gear up their machineries at all levels, from branch to the national leadership.

"Each BA member must help in strengthening each other since an election cannot be won just on issues alone but also on the efficiency and strength of party infrastructures," he said.

Financially prepared

He also urged party members to set aside money or seek donations from others in view of the recent amendments to the Election Act 1958 which, among others, seek to raise the electoral deposit.

"We have to be financially prepared through innovative ways such as raising funds for the election from well-wishers and sympathisers," he said.

He described election as the "only democratic way to bring an end to the vengeful and intolerant attitude of the BN government".

On talks that the BA [which comprises PAS, Keadilan, and PRM] has lost much of its appeal since the last general election, Fadzil remained optimistic that the opposition front would continue to get the people's support.

"The backing from the Malays is still solid while the non-Malays have not really deserted us," he said.

He added that former deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim who is currently serving a 15-year jail term after being convicted of corruption and sodomy is still "the symbol of our unity".