Death of Sarawak chief minister throws up election uncertainties
PM Najib may rethink snap polls this year, given that the state is expected to deliver big for his coalition
Kuala Lumpur
THE unexpected demise of Sarawak chief minister Adenan Satem of a heart attack on Wednesday may force Malaysia's Prime Minister Najib Razak to rethink snap polls this year given that Mr Adenan's successor - likely deputy chief minister Abang Johari Abang Openg - would need time to consolidate his power base. This is all the more so as the country's biggest state was expected to deliver big for the ruling coalition Barisan Nasional (BN).
Mr Adenan, who would have turned 73 in about a fortnight, died at the Sarawak Heart Centre at Kota Samarahan. He had been admitted since Sunday on his return from a holiday in Australia with his family.
BT is now on Telegram!
For daily updates on weekdays and specially selected content for the weekend. Subscribe to t.me/BizTimes
International
Thai power demand hits record as extreme heat prompts warnings
Philippines denies deal with China over disputed South China Sea shoal
‘Everyone sits out’: Yangon parks offer heatwave relief
When US diplomats visit China, meal choices are about more than taste buds
China’s first-quarter industrial profits rise at slower pace
Laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, rich cuisine and low cost of living lure more expat retirees to Malaysia