Election compass to continue directing Malaysia's policies

THE timing of Malaysia's next general election is anybody's guess but the beating of the war drums for what will be a fiercely contested battle for the hearts and minds of voters by the long-ruling Barisan Nasional against a fragmented but yet formidable opposition had begun way earlier.

For that reason, be prepared for the unique art of politicking Malaysia-style to rachet up even more in the coming months.

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has until August next year to call for elections and many expect him to do so before the window narrows and more crucially, while he can still capitalise on an opposition that has yet to get its act fully together.