Anwar Ibrahim

Tackling rice bowl issues is a prudent first step for Anwar Ibrahim, who confronts a polarized political landscape.

At last week's election, the extraordinary, six-decade-long political journey of Mahathir Mohamad reached its quiet terminus.

Anwar said he would submit his government to a vote of confidence on December 19.

While the November 19 election resulted in a victory for his multi-ethnic Pakatan Harapan bloc, the forces of conservative Malay nationalism have perhaps never been stronger.

In naming the longtime opposition figure, the monarch called for an end to the political turmoil that has seen Malaysia led by three prime ministers since 2018.

Despite its shock defeat in 2018, UMNO's proven brand of ethnic Malay identity politics could play a decisive role in Saturday's election.

So who will replace Muhyiddin as Malaysia’s next prime minister? Several potential horses are nosing their way toward the starting line.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin’s desperate attempt to hold on to power threatens to shake the country's democratic system to the core.

But more challenges loom on the horizon for Muhyiddin Yassin's fragile governing coalition.

Facing a raft of internal and external challenges, the budget looms as a vote of confidence in Malaysia's leader.

UMNO expressed its support for Muhyiddin's coalition, even as its officials sought to extract concessions from the beleaguered premier.

Critics claim that Muhyiddin's move was intended to strengthen his hold on power amid challenges to his leadership.