Defining Tests for UMNO, Anwar and the Unity Government

Fulcrum editor Dr Lee Hwok Aun and Dr Francis Hutchinson, both Senior Fellows at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, speak with Khairy Jamaluddin on a broad range of Malaysian political and policy issues. Six months after the 15th general election, UMNO, Prime Minister Anwar, and the unity government are each facing distinct challenges that will test their ability to reform, govern, contest state elections, and sustain the ruling coalition.

Khairy is a Visiting Senior Fellow at ISEAS, and was three-time member of Malaysia’s parliament representing Rembau. He has served as Minister of Youth and Sports; Science, Technology and Innovation; and Health.

Dialogues at Fulcrum is a podcast published by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. For quick reference, the questions below were addressed during the podcast:

1:45 – Political icons like Mahathir Mohamad and Anwar Ibrahim have been cast into the political wilderness in the past – and made illustrious comebacks. What are Khairy’s plans in light of recent travails?

5:20 – Can UMNO be reformed?

8:18 – What is the future of moderate politics and centrist policies in Malaysia?

13:11 – How is the Anwar Ibrahim administration doing in balancing inclusive, need-based policies with specific community – especially Malay – concerns?

17:58 - Can Pakatan, and PKR in particular, expand their traction among Malays?

23:13 – How will the PH-BN unity government strategise their seat allocations and campaigns for the upcoming state elections? Does PH-BN have any chance of making any inroads in the northern states?

30:55 – Beyond the state elections and into the second half of 2023, what are PM Anwar’s main opportunities and pitfalls?

38:10 – In what areas is Malaysia heading in the right direction? Where is it heading in the wrong direction?