ARTICLES

5 Mar 2026

Local Polls in Putrajaya: The Perfect Pilot Project?

Francis E. Hutchinson

Local elections in Malaysia warrant a second look.

Malaysia Malaysian Politics

4 Mar 2026

Death Without Departure: Bung Moktar and the Persistence of His East Coast Political Authority

Vilashini Somiah

All politics is local and, in many cases, personal. The passing of Bung Moktar Radin illustrates these truisms in rural Sabah politics, as his influence persists for now.

A protester holds a sign during a demonstration to demand the arrest of Malaysian Anti-Corruption chief commissioner Azam Baki at Jalan Bangsar on 22 January 2022 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. (Photo by Annice Lyn / Getty Images via AFP)

3 Mar 2026

Anwar is Weak, But the Opposition is Weaker Still

James Chai

The political woes of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is a political goldmine for the opposition. But it has failed to capitalise on the opportunity.

Malaysia Malaysian Politics

24 Feb 2026

Rethinking Malaysia’s Path to Net Zero

Renard Siew

Carbon credits to be tabled under Malaysia’s new climate change bill should serve as a bridge towards decarbonisation rather than a substitute for it.

Climate Change Malaysia Malaysian Politics

13 Feb 2026

Malaysia’s Opposition: The Need to Close Ranks

Adib Zalkapli

To mount a creditable challenge to the ruling coalition, Malaysia’s opposition coalition needs to overcome a list of obstacles, foremost among them infighting within the grouping.

Malaysia Malaysian Politics

6 Feb 2026

The Roots and Persistence of Terengganu’s Hardline Approach to Islamic Law

Mohd Faizal Musa

Since August 2025, Terengganu has implemented stringent shariah-based legislation penalising Muslim men who neglect Friday prayers, allowing for imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to RM3,000. This reflects a broader trend of rigorous shariah enforcement under the PAS-led state government.

Islam Malaysia Malaysian Politics

22 Jan 2026

Rabble-rouser UMNO Youth Unlikely to Dent Ahmad Zahid’s Unity Call

Norshahril Saat

UMNO Youth has pulled out all the stops to persuade the party leadership to yank UMNO out of the ruling coalition. But the UMNO president has different ideas.

Malaysia Malaysian Politics

21 Jan 2026

Heading Into GE16: Desires and Dissensions

James Chai

Two years from the next general elections, there are dissensions in the ranks of Malaysia’s ruling and opposition coalitions. Observers of the country’s politics will need to brace for volatility.

Malaysia Malaysian Elections Malaysian Politics

20 Jan 2026

Malaysia’s Proposed PM Term Limit: Some Things to Consider

Lee Hwok-Aun

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s legislation to limit the prime minister’s term to 10 years is a prudent move. This should be paired with fixed parliamentary terms.

Malaysia Malaysian Politics