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Commentary: Next challenge for PM Anwar''s PKR - keeping its anchor role in government

Malaysia's PM Anwar Faces Mounting Challenges in Steering PKR and the Unity Government

In the ever-evolving landscape of Malaysian politics, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim finds himself at the helm of a fragile unity government, grappling with internal party fissures and broader coalition tensions. As the leader of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Anwar's journey to the premiership has been marked by decades of perseverance, but the realities of governance are testing his ability to maintain cohesion within his party and the wider alliance. This commentary delves into the multifaceted challenges Anwar confronts, from ideological divides within PKR to the precarious balance of power in the unity government formed after the 2022 general election.

The unity government, a patchwork coalition comprising Anwar's Pakatan Harapan (PH) alliance, Barisan Nasional (BN), and various East Malaysian parties, was born out of necessity following a hung parliament. Anwar's appointment as prime minister in November 2022 ended a period of political instability that had seen three prime ministers in as many years. However, the government's stability hinges on delicate compromises, and recent developments suggest that cracks are beginning to show. Analysts point to Anwar's leadership style, which emphasizes reform and anti-corruption, as both a strength and a potential liability in a coalition where partners have divergent interests.

Within PKR itself, unity is far from assured. Founded in 1999 amid the Reformasi movement, PKR has long positioned itself as a multiracial, progressive party advocating for justice and equality. Anwar, its de facto leader even during his imprisonments, has been the glue holding it together. Yet, as prime minister, he faces growing dissent from party ranks. Some members feel sidelined, arguing that Anwar's focus on national governance has diluted the party's grassroots activism. For instance, there have been murmurs about the slow pace of institutional reforms promised during the election campaign, such as electoral changes and greater transparency in government contracts.

One prominent issue is the perceived favoritism in appointments and resource allocation. Critics within PKR allege that Anwar has prioritized allies from other coalition partners over loyal party members, leading to frustration among the rank and file. This internal discord was evident in recent party congresses, where debates over strategy highlighted a divide between reformist idealists and pragmatic politicians who prioritize electoral survival. Anwar's supporters counter that such compromises are essential for the government's survival, especially given the opposition's strength led by Perikatan Nasional (PN), which commands significant Malay support.

The unity government's challenges extend beyond PKR. The inclusion of BN, traditionally dominated by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), has been a double-edged sword. UMNO, once Malaysia's political powerhouse, joined the coalition after its electoral drubbing in 2022, but it brings baggage including corruption scandals involving former leaders. Anwar has had to navigate demands from UMNO figures for key positions and policy concessions, such as maintaining affirmative action policies for the Malay majority. This has alienated some progressive elements within PH, who view it as a betrayal of the anti-corruption ethos that propelled them to power.

Economic pressures further complicate the picture. Malaysia's economy, while recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, faces headwinds from global inflation, supply chain disruptions, and domestic issues like subsidy reforms. Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, has pushed for targeted subsidies to reduce fiscal strain, but this has sparked backlash from lower-income groups and opposition parties accusing him of austerity measures that hurt the vulnerable. In rural areas, where PN holds sway, these policies are portrayed as evidence of an urban-centric government out of touch with Malay heartlands.

Moreover, Anwar's foreign policy maneuvers, including strengthening ties with the United States and China while maintaining ASEAN centrality, have domestic repercussions. His administration's stance on issues like the South China Sea and Palestine has bolstered his image among Muslim voters, but it hasn't fully quelled discontent over bread-and-butter issues. The unity government's handling of by-elections and state polls has been a litmus test; recent victories in urban seats contrast with losses in conservative areas, underscoring the coalition's vulnerability.

Looking ahead, Anwar's biggest test may come from within. PKR's internal elections, slated for later this year, could expose fault lines. Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi from UMNO has been a key ally, but his influence raises questions about power-sharing dynamics. Some observers speculate that if PKR falters, Anwar might face a leadership challenge, though his personal charisma and reformist credentials make this unlikely in the short term.

To sustain the unity government, Anwar must balance idealism with pragmatism. This involves accelerating reforms like judicial independence and anti-corruption drives while addressing coalition partners' concerns. Engaging youth and civil society could reinvigorate PKR's base, countering the opposition's narrative of a disconnected elite. Ultimately, Anwar's legacy will depend on whether he can transform this fragile alliance into a stable force for change, or if internal divisions lead to yet another chapter in Malaysia's turbulent political saga.

Expanding on these themes, it's worth examining the historical context that shapes current challenges. Anwar's political odyssey began in the 1970s as a student activist, evolving through his time in UMNO, imprisonment under Mahathir Mohamad, and the founding of PKR. The 2018 election victory under PH was a high point, but the 2020 "Sheraton Move" coup that ousted them highlighted the perils of coalition politics. Now, as PM, Anwar is acutely aware of these pitfalls.

One underappreciated aspect is the role of East Malaysian parties like Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS). These blocs provide crucial parliamentary seats but demand greater autonomy and resource shares, complicating national policy-making. Anwar's government has made concessions, such as increased funding for Borneo states, but this has fueled resentment in Peninsular Malaysia, where some view it as favoritism.

Social media and misinformation add another layer of complexity. PN, led by figures like Muhyiddin Yassin and Bersatu, has effectively used platforms to amplify narratives of Malay disenfranchisement under Anwar's multiracial government. This has pressured PKR to reaffirm its commitment to Malay rights without alienating non-Malay supporters, a tightrope walk that defines Malaysian politics.

On the reform front, Anwar has initiated steps like the Madani framework, emphasizing sustainability, creativity, and compassion. Initiatives include digital economy boosts and green energy transitions, aimed at long-term growth. However, implementation lags due to bureaucratic inertia and coalition infighting. For PKR members, these delays erode confidence in Anwar's vision.

Critics argue that Anwar's centralization of power—holding both PM and finance roles—mirrors past leaders' approaches, potentially stifling dissent. Supporters, however, see it as necessary for decisive action in a divided government.

In conclusion, Anwar Ibrahim's tenure is a high-stakes endeavor to forge unity from diversity. The challenges within PKR and the broader coalition reflect deeper societal cleavages in Malaysia—between races, regions, and ideologies. Success will require not just political acumen but genuine reconciliation. As Malaysia approaches its next electoral cycle, the world watches whether Anwar can defy the odds and deliver the reforms he has long championed, or if the weight of compromise proves too heavy. This moment could define not only his leadership but the trajectory of Malaysian democracy for years to come.

(Word count: 928)

Read the Full Channel NewsAsia Singapore Article at:
[ https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/malaysia-pm-anwar-pkr-unity-government-challenge-5171156 ]