Little room for PH to exploit King’s feelings, say analysts

 

The King is not likely to be a factor among voters in the elections, says analyst James Chin.

PETALING JAYA: Pakatan Harapan (PH) will have limited success if it tries to exploit the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s disappointment with current political affairs, analysts say.

James Chin.

James Chin of the University of Tasmania’s Asia Institute said a lot of information and noise would be circulated during the campaign period, resulting in the public forgetting about Istana Negara’s statement.

“The King was never a factor in any past general election, and I don’t see him being a factor in this one either,” Chin told FMT. As the King is above politics, he said, the statement from the palace might not be a determining factor in the general election.

Yesterday, Istana Negara said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong had consented to the dissolution of Parliament as he was disappointed with political developments in the country.

-ADVERTISEMENT-

Ads by 

Awang Azman Pawi.

However, PH may find it difficult to use the King’s disappointment to its advantage when campaigning, says Awang Azman Pawi of Universiti Malaya.

Although voters might initially feel angry, it would be insufficient to influence their decision-making, he said. The coalition would need to ensure that the people’s anger could be translated into votes for PH.

Jeniri Amir.

Jeniri Amir of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak said the crucial election factors were the track record of the three political coalitions – Barisan Nasional, PH and Perikatan Nasional.

A bigger consideration for voters might be the tainted image of several politicians because of unpopular decisions such as party hopping.

“People’s political awareness is much higher now compared to before, (especially on) current issues. The people will be more informed when casting their votes,” he said. - FMT