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All square after Malaysia’s state polls, but no smooth ride for Anwar’s unity government

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Tan Ai Leng

Published Wed, Aug 16, 2023 · 05:00 AM
    • Analysts expect Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim (centre) to take a populist approach in policy-making, to regain the support of Malay voters.
    • Analysts expect Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim (centre) to take a populist approach in policy-making, to regain the support of Malay voters. PHOTO: PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE OF MALAYSIA

    [KUALA LUMPUR] The conclusion of elections in six states of Malaysia with widely expected results has signalled an end to political turbulence in the country. But analysts say that there is a rocky road ahead for the unity government, especially in fixing economic problems.

    As expected, the fight between the governing coalition Pakatan Harapan (PH) and its ally Barisan Nasional (BN) against the opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional (PN) ended peacefully in a 3-3 stalemate situation.

    The state elections last Saturday (Aug 12) were seen as a test of mandate for the unity government, led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

    MalaysiaAnwar IbrahimPakatan HarapanBarisan NasionalPerikatan NasionalGeneral electionAsean BusinessAsean

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