KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians in 6 states headed to the polls on Saturday (today) in local elections seen as a test case of support for incumbent Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s nine-month-old government.
Reuters reported that the polls in the states of Penang, Selangor, Kelantan, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah and Terengganu will not directly influence Prime Minister Anwar’s two-thirds majority in the country’s parliament, but any substantial losses could threaten the stability of his coalition administration in the country.
Malaysia: People Vote in State Polls, Test for PM Anwar
The Prime Minister’s progressive alliance known as Pakatan Harapan presently holds power in 3 of the 6 states, with the rest controlled by a conservative opposition alliance that is gaining popularity in the country, Reuters reported.
The conservative opposition alliance known as Perikatan, led by ex-PM Muhyiddin Yassin, made significant inroads in the Malay heartlands in the last elections, that were held in November 2022.
Opinion surveys showed both Muhyiddin and Anwar blocs were likely to retain their control in the respective areas, with Muhyiddin Yassin’s Perikatan likely expanding their support and influence in the Malay-majority region.
The opinion surveys also showed deep concerns among voters and masses over economic matters such as growing prices and reducing growth.
Since assuming office, Prime Minister Anwar has focused on brining economic reforms, including decreasing subsidies for the rich, easing rules and regulations for firms, and also abolishing the compulsory death penalty.
