ARTICLES

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.

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

16 Jan 2026

Marhamah Rosli: Risk or Opportunity for Madani?

Mohd Faizal Musa

The prime minister has surprisingly appointed a neophyte as his new deputy religious affairs minister, but this move may yet pay off.

Malaysia Malaysian Politics

15 Jan 2026

The UEC Debate Reawakens Identity Discourse

Syaza Shukri

The issue of recognition for the pre-university exam certificate issued by Chinese-language schools has renewed identity politics in Malaysia.

Education Malaysia Malaysian Politics

30 Dec 2025

2025 Top 10

After Langkasuka Project Failure, Sanusi Takes Another Punt at Penang

Amrita Malhi

Kedah’s Chief Minister Sanusi Nor has sought to blame his state’s current financial woes on historical wrongs that need to be righted. But he has other motivations too.

2025 Top 10 Malaysia Malaysian Politics

22 Dec 2025

Beyond Autonomy: The Ripple Effects of Sabah Elections on Federal Power

Lee Hwok-Aun|Adib Zalkapli

Pakatan Harapan’s poor performance at the Sabah state elections has weakened its bargaining power vis-à-vis ruling coalitions in Sabah and Sarawak. It will need their support to form the next federal government.

Malaysia Malaysian Elections Malaysian Politics