Anwar Ibrahim in Power: A Historical Locating of the Limits for Change in Malaysia

By OOI KEE BENG, RSIS Working Papers WP342 18 July 2024

Abstract

The last 25 years in Malaysian political history have circled around the personalities of Mahathir Mohamed and Anwar Ibrahim, with several minor (in hindsight) actors playing supportive—or destructive—roles. Although over 20 years apart in age, they have participated in the same protracted play of twists and turns. How is one to make sense of this turbulent series of events? One rationale offered, after Anwar Ibrahim finally became prime minister in November 2022, is the idea he had implanted into public consciousness since 1998: the painful need for Malaysia to reform itself.

But what nature of reforms? The answers have varied in content and intention, especially given the long timeline between 1998 and 2022. This paper highlights the importance of considering political contingencies over time, both in how they shape the broader narrative of Malaysian history, and how political expediencies impact the prioritisation of reforms. Anwar’s hotchpotch Unity Government experiences a strong need to stay in power under fragile political conditions, while retaining its promise to transform governance in the country. In particular, misconceptions about modern nation-building need to be studied and taken seriously.

READ IT HERE: https://www.rsis.edu.sg/rsis-publication/idss/anwar-ibrahim-in-power-a-historical-locating-of-the-limits-for-change-in-malaysia/.