PoliticsMalaysia’s Conservative “Blue Wave” Challenges Anwar’s Government

Negeri Sembilan held its state assembly election on August 1. Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional maintained their cooperation and jointly won 25 seats, taking back control of the state from Pakatan Harapan and advancing the conservative Malay “Blue Wave.” Pakatan Harapan, led by Prime Minister Anwar, secured only 11 seats, six fewer than in the previous election. Transport Minister and Democratic Action Party secretary-general Anthony Loke also unexpectedly lost the seat he had held for 13 years. The podcast examines whether the wave could spread across West Malaysia and deepen pressure on Anwar’s government.