He is expected to lead discussions with Barisan Nasional about the formation of a coalition government.

Speculation about his role as chief negotiator arose after he was defeated in the contest for the Tambun parliamentary seat by Pakatan Harapan chairman Anwar Ibrahim.

Faizal, who is known as Peja, declined to comment on the matter.

Perak PN deputy chairman Razman Zakaria had said there was room for discussions with BN, but ruled out a collaboration with PH.

Faizal said his contest with Anwar in Tambun was a close, well-fought and lively battle. “I hope Anwar will take his role as Tambun MP seriously and look into the needs of the constituents. It is a large constituency that requires constant attention.”

PN won 26 seats in the state assembly, of which PAS won 17 and Bersatu nine. PH took 24 seats while BN took nine (Umno eight, MCA one).

A simple majority of 30 seats is needed to form the new state government.