Articles - Bridget Welsh

A turning point for Terengganu?

July 31, 2018

On Malaysia’s beautiful east coast, PAS is experiencing a sweet honeymoon in Terengganu. On the ground, PAS is similarly receiving the positive energy and goodwill felt in the Klang Valley towards Pakatan Harapan.

‘New’ or ‘old’ Sabah in New Malaysia?

July 17, 2018

On the streets of Kota Kinabalu, there is open delight of the appointment of one of their own, Richard Malanjum, as the new chief justice. Across the diverse multiethnic mosaic of the state, many respond with the phrase “I feel Malaysian.”

‘New Malaysia’ makes Singapore look outdated

July 10, 2018

Mahathir’s triumph exposes shortcomings of city-state’s one-party rule

Arrivals and departures in ‘New Malaysia’

July 9, 2018

Today marks two months since the May elections, coming after a dramatic week of appointments, an arrest, and a nauseating court gag order.

Pakatan Harapan’s vulnerabilities in the states

June 26, 2018

In the weeks following GE14, the focus has centred on developments at the national level, as Malaysians wait for a full cabinet and watch the new Pakatan Harapan government set in place its initial policies.

Tainted love in Umno’s polls

June 18, 2018

Umno heads to its party elections at the end of the month. Nominations are in and a real contest is taking shape. This is a contest not just about the future of Umno but for the future of Malaysia. Despite being decimated in the May 9 elections, Umno continues to hold onto the support of at least a third of the Malay electorate and its actions in opposition will affect the country’s political direction.