Malaysian PM Muhyuddin passes leadership test in final budget vote

Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIAN Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin on Tuesday passed an important test of his parliamentary support after a narrow majority of lawmakers approved his 2021 budget at the final stage amid a challenge by the opposition.

The result could signal firmer footing for Mr Muhyiddin, whose eight months in office have been beset by infighting in his ruling coalition and a leadership challenge from opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, just as the country grapples with the economic and health crises caused by the coronavirus pandemic.