Malaysia’s unity government faces test of mandate in Aug 12 state polls

[KUALA LUMPUR] Malaysia’s unity government, led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, faces its first test of public support in six state polls on Aug 12, with the Election Commission (EC) announcing the date on Wednesday (Jul 5).

Political analysts expect the polls to serve as a barometer of support for the unity government, and to indicate the strength of the opposition “green wave”, named after the colour of the Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) flag.

Close to 9.8 million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots in the state elections, to be held simultaneously in Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu.