GE13 Malaysia

Women voters, in the majority, but under-represented.

For most Malaysians, the country has changed irrevocably and a people that once identified by race is now united.

With only the urban Malay middle class having attained self-confidence enough to heed Pakatan’s call, UMNO will claim three-quarters of the community’s vote.

You look at the soldiers. Where the soldiers go, the government goes too. Soldiers change, government changes. Soldiers don't change, government does not change

May 6th 2013 could be a new dawn of justice ushered in by a people who, after more than half a century of governmental abuse, can finally believe again.

Once led by two brothers, HINDRAF is now split and neutralised. One brother, now claims to support BN; while the other faces impending arrest.

Malaysians the world over made electoral history as they took part for the first time ever as overseas voters in the 13th general election.

Stay tuned to New Mandala for anecdote, analysis and new perspectives on Malaysia's 'mother of all' elections'.

How the issue of citizenship-for-votes plays out at GE13 remains moot but the certainty that Sabah remains BN’s fixed deposit no longer holds.

Malaysia needs a new national conversation, practise new politics, widen the public sphere, put an end to the culture of fear, and let the best prevail.

If a revolution has to be defended with abusive and undemocratic ways, then we are no different from our oppressors.

Will the fielding of new faces grant BN a new lease on political life? Or will it be regarded as an exit strategy? Only time will tell.

There is wide coverage on Malaysia's most anticipated general elections.

What is more worrying than government debt is household debt, and there appears to be no easy answers to this conundrum.

Many Malaysians are willing to move beyond the politics of fear into a brave new world, but will they be looked after?

The Malaysian electoral authoritarian regime has hardened in its attitude and actions toward media freedom in various “waves” since reformasi.

One hopes that many of the important ideals expressed will be able to take shape under such a secular-Islamic or Islamic-secular state.

The upcoming election will force Sabahans to choose between the devil and the deep blue sea.

Putting a human face to the Malaysian Indians who are struggling for their democratic rights.

I hope we will see more women at the helm. It's long overdue, and a vital part of any development.

Barisan Nasional’s greatest strength would be its numbers of years as a coalition government, its ability to govern together with all parties.

Unless resilience to climate change is factored into political calculations, standards of living in Malaysia are likely to face increasing pressure in the medium- to long-term.

The most important issue that the new government must address is to make Malaysia more inclusive and dynamic.