ANALYSIS by JOCELINE TAN

TOP leaders in Malaysia's Islamic opposition party, Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS), may think they are forging bravely towards unity talks - and even a unity government - with the ruling coalition. They could be falling into a trap instead.

Developments in recent days drew this cynical remark from blogger Syed Azidi Syed Aziz, better known as Kickdefella: "Selepas racun lipas, Najib sedia sapukan gam tikus.- (After the cockroach poison, then Najib spreads out the rat glue.)

He was referring to Prime Minister Najib Razak's comment a few days ago, when he responded to suggestions of unity talks for the first time - saying the Umno party he heads was willing to consider the proposal by PAS.

Somewhat tongue-in-cheek, he even said it was like a couple preparing to marry: They have to size up each other first before taking things further.

This will fan hopes with some in PAS that a deal is possible.

But Kickdefella sees a trap that will cause PAS to lose support and self-destruct.

PAS politics has always thrived on the premise that it is morally superior to Umno; that, for its brand of political Islam to triumph, it must defeat Umno.

PAS leaders once even declared Umno members infidels.

When newly crowned PAS deputy chief Nasharuddin Mat Isa Nasharuddin said he would take Mr Najib's comments to party president Abdul Hadi Awang, who is overseas, PAS spiritual adviser Nik Aziz Nik Mat exploded, suggesting Mr Nasharuddin join Umno instead.

Clearly, the split between the group that favours unity talks with Umno and its opponents has erupted into open warfare.

It is threatening to burn the leaders supporting the idea: Mr Hadi Awang, Mr Nasharuddin and secretary-general Mustafa Ali, who is considered the brains of the group.

Umno sources have said "anything is possible" and that it is willing to consider giving PAS four Cabinet seats as well as four deputy-minister posts.

Umno will also let PAS hold Kelantan and Kedah states.

Is this considered stringing PAS along?

The pro-talks group began leaning towards Umno because they were not sure the other parties in the opposition pact can guarantee PAS' Islamic agenda.

But it does not bode well that Umno leaders are calling Mr Nasharuddin, in particular, an "exemplary person" who would be welcome in Umno. You know you're in trouble when your party leader slams you and your enemy praises you.

- THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK