4 reasons why PN should rule Malaysia

 

I have been observing Malaysian politics since the days of “Reformasi” and its aftermath, culminating in Anwar Ibrahim’s rise as prime minister.

Initially, I believed the country’s issues stemmed largely from the Malay community. However, in recent years, I have come to realise that the non-Malays are equally responsible.

Complaints about Anwar and the unity government have been so overwhelming that perhaps it is best that Perikatan Nasional (PN) take over Putrajaya after the 16th general election.

I foresee that three out of four paths would lead to PN forming the government, with Abdul Hadi Awang or Hamzah Zainudin as prime minister. Perhaps there would be as many as five deputy prime ministers—after all, the more, the merrier.

So, what are the four “compelling” reasons to welcome PN as the next government?

A peaceful Malaysia

Firstly, Malaysia is likely to achieve peace under PN rule. After all, much of the racial tension in the country these days has been fuelled by PAS, which has perpetuated narratives that the Malays are constantly under threat from Christians and communists.

For example, PAS leader Siti Mastura Muhammad had sought to link DAP veterans to Chin Peng, the longtime leader of the now-defunct Communist Party of Malaya. The High Court ruled the claim was false and defamatory.

Even though PAS raised nearly RM900,000 in funds to pay off Siti Mastura’s liability under the judgment, her appeal to the Court of Appeal continues, presumably so that the issue persists until the next election.

The party’s strategy is simple: never admit to slander, even when the source is unreliable. Instead, invoke the Communist bogeyman to frighten Malays.

PAS Perak chief Razman Zakaria has similarly stirred controversy with issues such as the China flag waving, and claims that youth and sports minister Hannah Yeoh is a Christian evangelist. There are also all sorts of objections to Christmas celebrations and the participation of Muslims in such events.

Former federal minister Rais Yatim has also jumped on this bandwagon, alleging that communist ideology is infiltrating Malaysia. Yet, while Malays support Hamas—deemed a terrorist organisation by some—Rais fixates on the Taiwan-China issue.

Then there is PN activist Syarul Ema Rena Abu Samah, known as Ratu Naga, who even failed to recognise the Perak anthem.

These agitators share a common goal: to scare Malays with claims of a Chinese, communist, and Christian takeover. Under PN, I assume Malaysia would find peace, as Pakatan Harapan would not stoop to such tactics.

Malay dominance

Malay leaders have over the years instilled in young graduates a belief that they own this country and that “pendatang” must tread carefully. As the majority, Malays demand their rights. They insist on being the first, second, and last to everything the nation offers, including taxes from gambling, liquor and entertainment.

PN, which boasts that it has the support of the majority of Malay representation, aligns with this vision. Gerakan remains a mere sideshow, subservient to the majority’s whims.

Conversations with professors, teachers, and Malays from various backgrounds reveal widespread support for a Malay-majority Parliament to ensure the community’s safety, prosperity and the expansion of Islam.

As for Sabahans and Sarawakians, they seem indifferent to the peculiar state of affairs in Semenanjung. They simply want to retain control over their forests, oil and minerals.

Satisfaction for critics

A PN-led government might appease columnists and NGOs like Bersih, who frequently criticise Anwar and PH. Certain lawyer-activists and even the Bar Council, which I suspect will eventually be dominated by Malays, might rejoice. For all their complaints about Anwar’s unfulfilled reform promises, PN could deliver the drastic changes these idealists desire.

Figures like Hadi, PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, and Bersatu’s Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal might fulfil the calls for change from YouTubers and lawyer-activists.

Stranger things have happened in Malaysia. Who would have thought Dr Mahathir Mohamad would become prime minister twice, stepping on those who once elevated him?

Rapid, drastic change

Under PN, Malaysia could experience swift and transformative change. Some hail figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk for their bold actions, from tariffs to mass firings. Perhaps Malaysia needs similar decisiveness—no diplomacy, just immediate change. But change to what, I wonder?

I pray Malaysians get what they wish for. Under the unity government, both Malays and non-Malays seem dissatisfied, lamenting unmet expectations.

With just two years until the next election, be careful what you wish for—you might just get it. - FMT

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.