MALAYSIA: Malaysians turned out for regional elections on Saturday, a crucial gauge of support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s nine-month-old government.
Although the outcome won’t directly impact Anwar’s parliamentary majority, any substantial losses could potentially undermine the stability of his coalition administration.
Leading a progressive ethnic coalition known as Pakatan Harapan in three of the nation’s six states, Anwar also heads Perikatan Nasional in the remaining two. Perikatan Nasional, a conservative opposition faction, garners backing from the predominantly ethnic-Malay Muslim population.
The Perikatan party, led by Muhyiddin Yassin, secured significant traction in the Malay heartlands during the national election of November 2022.
The opposition party, asserting its commitment to combating corruption, criticizes Anwar for forming an alliance with the United Malays National Organisation to achieve a parliamentary majority.
Current public opinion surveys suggest that both Anwar and Muhyiddin’s factions are likely to retain control in their respective states, with Perikatan potentially augmenting its influence in areas where the Malay population predominates.
Voters have expressed apprehensions about economic concerns, encompassing escalating costs, sluggish growth, and the depreciation of the ringgit, as highlighted by polling agencies Merdeka Centre and Ilham Centre.
Malay voter Asyraf Zainal Ludin is optimistic about the potential of the Anwar government to revitalize the economy through pledged initiatives. He anticipates positive changes, particularly in Selayang, his hometown.
Anwar has introduced reforms touching on both institutions and the economy, including subsidy reductions for the affluent, eased corporate listing prerequisites, and the abolition of mandatory death sentences.
However, critics voice concerns about the rise of intolerance towards the LGBTQ community and increased government monitoring of online activities. Notably, Anwar’s administration has yet to address LGBTQ rights.
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