Muhyiddin’s partners hold all the aces in Malaysia

Outlook

Mahathir, along with his allies in what remains of the PH, will likely aim to table a no-confidence motion against Muhyiddin’s government when parliament next sits. Soon after assuming power, Muhyiddin postponed parliament’s next sitting to May 18.

As things stand Muhyiddin would likely survive the vote, as several lawmakers have since February 24 switched to the PN.

However, the prime minister may struggle to hold the PN together. Senior figures within UMNO have in recent days said the party does not have enough enough high-ranking posts in the cabinet, which suggests intra-coalition tensions could grow.

Impacts

• UMNO and PAS will pressure Muhyiddin to allow them greater say over government policy, emphasising Malay-Muslim causes.
• A ban on mass gatherings, due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, will limit anti-government protests by PH supporters.
• If UMNO and PAS leave the PN, the king may have to call snap elections.