Even PJ no longer safe seat, PKR MP paints grim picture for Harapan

Even PJ no longer safe seat, PKR MP paints grim picture for Harapan

Lee Way Loon

Published: May 10, 2026 3:00 PM
Updated: 5:00 PM



A PKR lawmaker has warned that the party's situation may be even worse than suggested in a leaked internal analysis showing it has only seven safe parliamentary seats ahead of the next general election.

According to Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung, even his constituency - a highly urbanised seat in Selangor - can no longer be considered safe.

This is despite the leaked internal analysis classifying it as a "Tier 1" (strong/safe) seat.

He even warned that PKR could be heading toward a near-repeat of its disastrous 2004 election performance, when the party was reduced to just a single parliamentary seat.

"The situation is actually more severe... In 2004, we were almost wiped out. Under the current circumstances, I believe we are getting close to 2004," he said, in reference to BN scoring a huge mandate under the late former premier Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, leaving the opposition with a combined 20 seats in total.

Lee, who is also a PKR central leadership council member, said this during a Malaysiakini Chinese-language podcast, which was aired on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts on Friday.


Leaked internal analysis

The PKR MP confirmed that he had also been invited to attend the party's internal event on May 2, where the analysis was revealed, but was unable to make it due to prior commitments.

In an exclusive report published on May 5, Malaysiakini reported that PKR's internal strategic analysis identified 66 parliamentary seats the party plans to contest in the upcoming election.

Only seven out of the 66 parliamentary seats were classified as "Tier 1" safe seats. There were 13 categorised as "Tier 2A" (leaning strong), 17 "Tier 2B" (marginal/competitive), and 29 "Tier 3" (difficult/recovery).

Among the "Tier 2B" marginal seats was Tambun, held by Prime Minister and party president Anwar Ibrahim.

Asked about the classification of his constituency as a "Tier 1", Lee disagreed, saying it felt "a little like living in a parallel universe".

"Whether on the ground or based on the latest feedback we've received, PJ is no longer safe for PKR.

"PJ has the most progressive and highly urbanised voters, as well as many swing, centrist and pragmatic voters who want us to focus on national issues and policies.

"They have high expectations and are deeply passionate about reform. Under those circumstances, it would not be suitable to categorise PJ as a safe seat," he said.


‘Supporters are disappointed’

Lee said Pakatan Harapan voters are now generally disappointed, with many feeling that the ruling coalition and PKR have begun taking their support for granted.

He added that since taking federal power in 2022, both Harapan and PKR have repeatedly undermined the reformist enthusiasm of their supporters through actions that contradicted their own reform promises.

He pointed out that even setting aside identity politics, the coalition has failed to take a firm stand on universal values such as integrity and anti-corruption.

As an example, Lee said many Harapan and PKR supporters - especially among the urban middle class - remain deeply unhappy over controversies surrounding the MACC and its outgoing chief commissioner Azam Baki.

Protesters at the Tangkap Azam Baki rally last month


He also said recent investigations targeting former PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli and his former aide James Chai carried the appearance of political retaliation.

"This leaves many voters and supporters feeling deeply uneasy. It's unbelievable. Even during our more difficult years in opposition, we could never have imagined something like this happening.

"We were supposed to change and dismantle this kind of system, to build a new one that is fairer and more professional. Yet now these things are happening to our own comrades," said the first-term MP.

Lee pointed out that PKR's core support base has always been centrist voters in urban and mixed constituencies because the party positions itself as a progressive, moderate and multiracial reform party.

He warned that if the party loses its core supporters and traditional base, the consequences will be "very frightening".

"Keeping promises is a very basic and reasonable expectation. Voters support you because of what you promised - not because of religion, race or other forms of identity politics," he said.


The kopitiam benchmark

Lee cited the controversial Petaling Jaya Dispersal Link (PJD Link) highway project as another example, saying Harapan and PKR had initially taken a firm stand against it, only to waver after coming into government.

Kinrara residents protest the PJD Link circa 2024


"At the time, I conducted a survey. I believe this issue was never just about toll highways or traffic congestion - it was fundamentally about integrity.

"The survey showed that if we broke our promises, 25 percent of voters would switch sides. If we apply to PJ, that would mean I would receive fewer votes than Perikatan Nasional.

"And this is PJ, not a semi-rural constituency like Tanjung Malim or some more remote area. So voters care about whether you keep your promises. Even if you can't fully deliver, did you genuinely try? That matters to them. You can't just brush things aside with empty rhetoric," he lamented.

Despite the gloomy survey results, Lee said he was not personally worried and was still "sleeping very well" because his political compass is defined by whether he has upheld his principles.

PJ MP Lee Chean Chung at the Tangkap Azam Baki rally in April


"My personal political benchmark is simple: no matter what happens in the future, when I go to a kopitiam (coffee shop), people are still be willing to sit down for a drink with me, buy me a drink or let me buy them one.

"I've heard that many (Harapan) YBs nowadays no longer dare to go to kopitiam. Some prefer drinking in hotels instead - looking increasingly like the very people we once opposed.

"I still prefer going to kopitiam. I feel more at ease there, and the food is better too," he quipped.

Ramanan, Fuziah eyeing Batu seat for GE16?

Ramanan, Fuziah eyeing Batu seat for GE16?

B Nantha Kumar
Published: May 10, 2026 10:55 AM
Updated: 1:13 PM



Sources are claiming that PKR vice-president R Ramanan and secretary-general Fuziah Salleh are eyeing the Batu parliamentary seat ahead of the 16th general election, which is currently held by the party’s P Prabakaran.

Ramanan (above, right) is the MP for Sungai Buloh and the human resources minister. He won his seat in the last general election, which saw a seven-cornered contest that included former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

“Early speculation suggests Ramanan is interested in Batu. He is seen as wanting a seat with a more mixed demographic. However, nothing has been finalised yet,” a source from the party leadership told Malaysiakini.

At the same time, the situation has become more intriguing after another source confirmed that Fuziah is also believed to be interested in contesting in Batu.

“Fuziah does not want to remain only as a senator. Batu is a strategic constituency for her return to the Dewan Rakyat,” said the source, who is also from the party leadership.

Fuziah previously lost the Kuantan parliamentary seat in GE15 to Perikatan Nasional candidate Wan Razali Wan Nor by a majority of 2,866 votes.

The defeat ended her three-term tenure in the constituency before she was appointed to the Senate and later became deputy minister of domestic trade and cost of living.

Ramanan, meanwhile, began his political career in MIC before joining PKR ahead of GE15, when he replaced former Sungai Buloh MP R Sivarasa as the party’s candidate.

He also won the PKR vice-presidency during the party election before being appointed minister in the December 2025 cabinet reshuffle.

Malaysiakini has contacted both Ramanan and Fuziah for comment.

Previously, Malaysiakini reported that PKR’s GE16 analysis report classified Sungai Buloh and Kuantan as Tier 3 seats, while Batu was placed in Tier 1.

In electoral terms, Tier 3 refers to seats requiring special intervention, while Tier 1 constituencies are considered among the party’s safest or strongest.


‘Better local than parachute candidate’

Batu PKR division chief Asheeq Ali Sethi Alivi said bringing in a “parachute candidate” to Batu would not be as straightforward as some might assume.

“I know several top leaders are looking at Batu.

“Representatives for Fuziah contacted members of my division and expressed that intention. At the same time, several central leaders also informed me that Ramanan may be fielded in Batu.

“However, I have not received any direct calls from them,” he said when contacted.

Batu PKR division chief Asheeq Ali Sethi Alivi


However, Asheeq, who is also the Federal Territories PKR Youth chief, stressed his personal view that Batu needs a local candidate.

“To me, senior leaders migrating to safe seats is unfair to division members or existing MPs in constituencies categorised as safe. Nevertheless, I respect whatever decision the top leadership makes,” he said.


Not the right time

Batu incumbent Prabakaran said it was not the appropriate time to discuss candidates.

“My main focus as the incumbent is to fulfil the people’s mandate and deliver on the reform promises we have championed. That is the responsibility I prioritise in Batu at this moment,” he said.

Batu MP P Prabakaran


The Batu parliamentary constituency, which includes areas such as Jalan Ipoh, Sentul and Jinjang, is known as a mixed seat with a large non-Malay voter base. The constituency is often viewed as a testing ground for the strength of the reformasi-driven party.

Previously, Malaysiakini reported that some grassroots members within Batu PKR had proposed deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar as a potential candidate for the seat in GE16 as part of a motion of support from delegates.

Addressing Indian students, Anwar says ‘stand to be corrected’ over temple row remarks

Addressing Indian students, Anwar says ‘stand to be corrected’ over temple row remarks



Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim suggested that his call for stern enforcement against houses of worship built without permits may have been “misconstrued”, describing such interpretations as attempts to sow division. — Bernama pic

Sunday, 10 May 2026 2:25 PM MYT



KUALA LUMPUR, May 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today appeared to acknowledge that some of his remarks about Hindu temples were perceived as tacit support for hostility directed at the Indian community.

Speaking to Indian students at Universiti Malaya here, Anwar suggested that his call for stern enforcement against houses of worship built without permits may have been “misconstrued”, describing such interpretations as attempts to sow division.

Anwar had faced criticism from leaders within the Malaysian Indian community, who argued that his use of the term “kuil haram” (illegal temples) could be seen as endorsing unilateral action.

“In many Western countries, the far right is winning because they exploit racial sentiments,” Anwar said during a government programme here.

“Hate towards the PM because he is portrayed as friendly towards the Chinese, or not stern enough about (Hindu) temples. Even if we need to be stern, we must be respectful of other faiths, not to the point that we hurt each other’s feelings,” he added.

“Yes, this is a difficult issue. As always, I stand to be corrected, and some of my remarks had been misconstrued, but it was never the intention.”


MORE TO COME

Two Singaporeans confirmed dead after Mount Dukono eruption in Indonesia, evacuation hampered by ash and bad weather

Two Singaporeans confirmed dead after Mount Dukono eruption in Indonesia, evacuation hampered by ash and bad weather



Rescuers had found backpacks suspected to belong to the two Singaporeans, and the authorities confirmed that one Indonesian hiker, who had gone missing, was dead. — Reuters pic

Sunday, 10 May 2026 2:36 PM MYT


JAKARTA, May 10 — Two Singaporean nationals missing for days were confirmed dead today from the eruption of Mount Dukono on Indonesia’s Halmahera island, the local rescue agency ‌said.

Rescuers found the bodies around the crater rim, and evacuation was under way, agency head Iwan Ramdani told Reuters.

“Evacuation of the bodies is still hampered by eruptions that continue to occur and bad weather,” Iwan said, adding rain was falling in the area.

Some 150 personnel with two thermal drones have been deployed since this morning, Iwan said, with the focus of the search around 100-150 metres (350-500 feet) of the crater rim.

Mount Dukono ‌in North Maluku province bordering the Pacific Ocean began erupting ⁠on Friday, spewing ash as ⁠high as 10 km (6 miles). It has ⁠continued to erupt at a ⁠lower scale.

The ⁠area around the crater was still blanketed in volcanic ash, Iwan said, adding that the search area is about 1.25 ⁠km (0.8 mile) from the last known location of the victims.

Rescuers had found backpacks suspected to belong to the two Singaporeans, and the authorities confirmed that one Indonesian hiker, who had gone missing, was dead.

Seventeen people, including seven Singaporeans ⁠and 10 Indonesians, survived the incident.

The seven surviving Singaporeans will fly home on Sunday, Singapore’s Foreign Ministry said in a ⁠statement. It was unclear when the bodies of the two who died ⁠will ⁠be returned.

Indonesia’s volcanology agency reported at least four eruptions as of Sunday, with one sending ash 1.3 km high. The agency is maintaining the ‌third-highest alert level for Mount Dukono and bans any activities within 4 km (2.5 miles) of the crater. — Reuters

PM Anwar confirms RON95 aid review, stresses income brackets must not be wrongly affected

PM Anwar confirms RON95 aid review, stresses income brackets must not be wrongly affected



The government is currently reviewing RON95 assistance for upper income earners, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. — Picture by Choo Choy May

Sunday, 10 May 2026 3:32 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, May 10 — The government is currently reviewing RON95 assistance for upper income earners, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today, amid growing calls for petrol subsidies to be reserved for the lower- and middle-income groups.

But any recalibration of petrol aid would possibly avoid touching upper middle-income earners too, Anwar suggested.

“The study had been undertaken by the National Economic Action Council,” Anwar told reporters briefly after attending a government programme at Universiti Malaya here.

“But we want to make sure the right income brackets aren’t affected — for example, the upper- middle-income group,” he added.


MORE TO COME

Muda needs big name, says analyst after Rafizi overtures

Muda needs big name, says analyst after Rafizi overtures


Yesterday
Anne Muhammad


Global Asia Consulting's Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri says the party lacks icons, a clear direction and fighting spirit

Muda deputy president Zaidel Baharuddin (left) says the party is open to working with PKR maverick Rafizi Ramli, though both sides have yet to establish a formal relationship.

PETALING JAYA: Muda’s willingness to have some form of cooperation with PKR maverick Rafizi Ramli reflects the party’s need for a big name to shore up support as elections loom, says an analyst.

Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri of Global Asia Consulting said the invitation extended by Muda deputy president Zaidel Baharuddin to Rafizi could be construed as an honest admission of the party’s major weakness — a lack of influential bigwigs.

Zaharuddin said, apart from lacking icons, Muda appears to lack a clear direction, and fighting spirit.

“It looks like Muda is trying to ride on Rafizi’s coattails, as he is a leader who is synonymous with political ideas and courage to go against the flow,” he told FMT.

During a recent podcast, Zaidel said Muda was open to working with Rafizi in some way, although both sides have yet to establish a formal relationship.

He said that may include Rafizi contesting in the next general election on a Muda ticket, or offering advice on the party’s political strategy.

Zaidel said Muda was willing to put aside past differences and apprehensions to learn from the former PKR deputy president.

In March, Muda’s most prominent figure, founding president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, opted not to take part in the party elections.

The Muar MP has been succeeded at the party’s helm by Puteri Wangsa assemblyman Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz, Muda’s only other elected representative.

Muda was formerly a Pakatan Harapan ally and contested in the general and state elections under the PH banner through electoral pacts. However, it subsequently crossed the aisle to join the opposition bloc.


Muda being rational, pragmatic

Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) viewed Muda’s overtures to Rafizi as a pragmatic and rational move, aimed at learning from the former economy minister’s experiences and capabilities.

She said Muda was showing respect for Rafizi’s expertise, particularly his political approach and strategies, although he is often mocked by detractors as being no more than a “king of formulas”.

“At the same time, Muda may be trying to get the two-term Pandan MP to join them because he will clearly add value to the party,” she added.

Man killed, another injured in Skudai entertainment outlet shooting as Johor police hunt woman believed to be shooter

Man killed, another injured in Skudai entertainment outlet shooting as Johor police hunt woman believed to be shooter



Police have confirmed that a man was killed and another injured in a shooting outside an entertainment outlet in Skudai late Saturday night. — Picture via social media

Sunday, 10 May 2026 12:57 PM MYT


JOHOR BARU, May 10 — Police have confirmed that a man was killed and another injured in a shooting outside an entertainment outlet in Skudai late Saturday night.

Iskandar Puteri district police chief ACP M. Kumarasan said the incident took place at Taman Industri Jaya around 11pm and involved a local woman, aged 27, believed to be the shooter.

“One local male victim, aged 27, died at the scene, while another man of the same age sustained injuries after being shot,” he said in a statement today.

He added that a third victim is also believed to have been injured but has yet to be identified, as he was taken away by acquaintances immediately after the incident. The individual is urged to come forward to assist investigations.

Police are also tracking two suspects who remain at large.

The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder, which carries the death penalty or imprisonment of between 30 and 40 years, along with not fewer than 12 strokes of the cane, upon conviction.

Members of the public with information are urged to contact Senior Investigating Officer ASP Afiq Izani at 019 3683036 or the Iskandar Puteri District Control Centre at 07 5113622/Hotline: 07 5114486.

“UMNO pushing for PH to underperform in next GE”

“UMNO pushing for PH to underperform in next GE”

A PROMINENT blogger who was recently arrested in Thailand for comments on Prime Minister (PM) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim thinks UMNO is doing everything for Pakatan Harapan (PH) to fail in the next general election (GE).


In a post published by The Vibes, blogger Murray Hunter said UMNO’s game plan requires PH to underperform, creating space for Deputy PM Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to emerge as a contender as the future PM.


He also said that UMNO winning the most seats would allow Zahid to nurture a coalition and strengthen his claim to the prime ministership.

“UMNO requires PH to perform poorly in the coming general election to achieve the above. However, this doesn’t discount Anwar from still being able to come up and obtain a second term as prime minister,” said Hunter.

He said if UMNO wins more seats than other Malay parties, Zahid will have the upperhand.


“If that occurs, then Zahid would be the ‘natural’ nominee to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (YDPA) Sultan Ibrahim to become the PM.

“If UMNO comes in second to PAS in the number of seats won, which is more likely, then it will be a matter of negotiation to determine which party would nominate their representative for the position of PM.

“In this situation, it would be Zahid’s ability to be able to pull together a coalition to create a government that may give him the credence to be the one considered as the prime ministerial candidate in a coalition put forward to the YDPA to approve,” added Hunter.

He further added that the party expects a hung parliament and aims to capitalise by forming alliances.

For Anwar to remain as PM after the next GE, he must lead PH to at least 65 seats to be the largest grouping in the new parliament.

In this position, it would be expected that Anwar would be requested by the YDPA to form a new government.

“If Anwar can muster those numbers, which is very possible, integrity will allow Zahid to support Anwar as PM once again.

“GE16 is going to be a tight election,” he said. — May 9, 2026

There is no seat 'deal' between UMNO and KJ - Akmal Saleh

There is no seat 'deal' between UMNO and KJ - Akmal Saleh


Dr Akmal said that Khairy, who is also a former Member of Parliament for Rembau, had not yet decided whether to contest or not in the upcoming GE.

Updated 2 hours ago · Published on 09 May 2026 3:20PM

Dr Akmal stressed that Umno is always open to accepting any individual who wants to rejoin the party's struggle. - May 9, 2026



THERE have been no negotiations between Umno and former party youth Chief, Khairy Jamaluddin, regarding his re-entry into the party, including the offer of a seat to contest in the upcoming General Election (GE).

Umno Youth Chief, Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, stressed that Umno is always open to accepting any individual who wants to rejoin the party's struggle.

“This is Rumah Bangsa. So, we welcome anyone who wants to enter.

“There is no ‘deal’, no underground, no above the table, no. Whoever feels that this Umno struggle is theirs, we welcome entry,” he said at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre (WTCK KL), today.

He said this when asked if there were any negotiations involving an electoral seat for Khairy.

Dr Akmal said that Khairy, who is also a former Member of Parliament for Rembau, had not yet decided whether to contest or not in the upcoming GE.

“KJ also does not know whether he wants to contest or not. KJ has also made a statement that he wants to rejoin UMNO because he loves the party.

“There is no ‘deal’ between Umno and KJ so far, God willing,” he added.

Khairy, among 6,252 former Umno leaders and members who were accepted back into the party under the Rumah Bangsa initiative.

In a similar development, Dr Akmal announced that 25 resolutions had been submitted as a result of the Rimbun 2.0 programme and would be submitted to Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, to be brought to the Cabinet meeting.

According to him, the resolutions would also be tabled at the Umno Supreme Working Council (MKT) meeting scheduled to be held this Monday in Johor.

Among the resolutions was a proposal to reinstate the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and target subsidies in an effort to support the country's economy following global uncertainties. – May 9, 2026

Johor Umno Youth calls out Nga Kor Ming over ‘double standards’ on appointed assemblymen

Johor Umno Youth calls out Nga Kor Ming over ‘double standards’ on appointed assemblymen


Its chief, Noor Azleen Ambros, said Nga’s objections to the constitutional amendment in Johor appeared selective, arguing that the same principle was not being consistently applied nationwide.

Updated 2 hours ago · Published on 09 May 2026 3:38PM

Nga had criticised the move, calling it undemocratic and claiming it went against the spirit of the Federal Constitution - May 9, 2026


by Alfian Z.M. Tahir



JOHOR Umno Youth has accused DAP deputy chairman Nga Kor Ming of applying double standards in his criticism of Johor’s move to introduce appointed state assemblymen, saying similar practices already exist in other states involving Pakatan Harapan (PH) representatives.

Its chief, Noor Azleen Ambros, said Nga’s objections to the constitutional amendment in Johor appeared selective, arguing that the same principle was not being consistently applied nationwide.

The controversy follows the Johor state assembly’s approval of amendments to the state constitution on May 7, allowing the appointment of up to five nominated assemblymen and increasing the number of seats in the legislative assembly from 56 to 61.

Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who tabled the amendment during the state assembly sitting in Kota Iskandar, said the proposal involved changes to Article 15 of the Second Part of the Law of the Constitution of 1895.

Nga had criticised the move, calling it undemocratic and claiming it went against the spirit of the Federal Constitution, which he said requires elected representatives to be chosen directly by the people.

Speaking after officiating the national-level World Firefighters Day celebration in Johor Baru, the Housing and Local Government Minister described the appointment mechanism as a “backdoor” route into the state assembly.

He also said PH would launch a signature campaign targeting Johor residents in protest against the amendment, framing the issue as a matter of defending parliamentary democracy.

According to Nga, appointed assemblymen who are not elected by voters should not wield the same powers as elected representatives, including participating in debates and voting on state legislation.

In response, Noor Azleen challenged Nga to push for the resignation of appointed assemblymen linked to PH in other states if he genuinely opposed the concept.

He named several figures, including Mohd Fadzly Mohd Ramly of Amanah and Rizal Jamin of PKR in Pahang, as well as Grace Lee Li Mei of PKR in Sabah.

“If the principle being championed is truly based on justice and transparency, then it cannot shift depending on the state or political interests involved,” he said in a statement.

Johor is set to become the fourth state in Malaysia to introduce appointed assemblymen after Sabah, Terengganu and Pahang. – May 9, 2026

Sedimentation in Pahang rivers serious safety risk: Tuan Ibrahim

Sedimentation in Pahang rivers serious safety risk: Tuan Ibrahim


Published: May 9, 2026 11:55 AM
Updated: 4:17 PM



Pahang Perikatan Nasional has raised concerns over serious sedimentation in the state’s rivers, warning that it poses safety risks to residents.

Its chairperson, Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, also took issue with what he described as “inaccurate” and “inappropriate” remarks by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on sand exports.

He said Anwar’s statement appeared to suggest that remarks by Pahang Crown Prince Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah in the state assembly yesterday did not take macroeconomic realities into account.

Tuan Ibrahim, who is also PAS deputy president, said such a perception was not only inaccurate but also failed to reflect the sensitivity expected of a national leader towards the monarchy and conditions at the state level.

“In reality, many rivers in Pahang are now facing serious sand sedimentation, causing them to become wider but shallower.

“This increases the risk of water overflow and flooding, especially during the rainy season.

“As such, dredging and deepening works are an urgent necessity to reduce these risks,” he said in a statement today.


Crown prince ‘deeply disappointed’

Yesterday, Tengku Hassanal expressed concern over what he viewed as federal laws that were unfavourable to Pahang, despite the state being among the earliest to form the Federated Malay States.

“I am deeply disappointed that the federal government has not approved the Pahang government’s efforts to increase state revenue, such as through river sand exports.

“Given that Pahang has the longest river in Peninsular Malaysia, large amounts of sediment need to be removed to ensure smooth river flow and prevent flooding.

“In the past, we could generate tens of millions in state revenue through sand exports to other countries, but unfortunately, the federal government no longer allows this, even though land and sand resources belong to Pahang,” he said.

Anwar later said the government respects the Pahang crown prince and would ask Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan to provide a comprehensive explanation on allocations to the state soon.

According to Anwar, Tengku Hassanal would also be briefed on the country’s macroeconomic position, economic pressures, and issues of wastage across various sectors.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim


“As citizens, we respect and carefully consider the matter,” he said when asked to comment.

Late last night, Tengku Hassanal responded to the prime minister’s statement with a traditional Malay pantun.

He also reiterated Pahang’s position that the state should be given fair treatment and consideration.


Holistic view needed

Meanwhile, Tuan Ibrahim said river deepening efforts would incur high costs.

As such, PN believes that selling dredged sand is not only a practical way to offset those costs but also has the potential to increase state revenue legally and effectively.

“Unfortunately, the federal government’s restrictions on sand exports have affected these efforts.

“Without sufficient market channels, excess sand will continue to accumulate, worsening river conditions and increasing flood risks in the future.

“Therefore, this issue must be viewed holistically, not merely from an economic policy perspective. It involves state rights, public safety, and the need for prudent resource management,” he said.

Tuan Ibrahim, who is also the Pahang opposition leader, urged Putrajaya to review policies that restrict sand exports and to allow the state greater flexibility in managing its resources.

“Do not see sand purely as an economic commodity; it is also a public safety and flood management issue. When the voice of the state is not heard, it is ultimately the people who bear the consequences,” he said.


Responsible, sustainable management

Separately, Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said the state government remains committed to ensuring that every source of state revenue is managed responsibly, sustainably, and in a manner that delivers the best returns for the state and its people.

Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail


“In this regard, to ensure that state revenue collection can continue to be enhanced, the state government hopes that the federal government can give due consideration to approving Pahang river sand exports,” Wan Rosdy said in a statement.

He said that, based on current estimates, sand reserves in Sungai Pahang could generate around RM500 million in revenue, with the potential to be used for various state development needs, including rural development, public housing, education, healthcare, and welfare initiatives.

“At the same time, controlled sand dredging activities would also benefit river management efforts by helping to deepen rivers, improve water flow, and reduce flood risks, especially during the monsoon season,” he said.

As such, Wan Rosdy said the state government will hold a meeting with the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry to find the best solution for all parties.

***

Said this before - will say it again:

Once you export sand, rocks, gravel or earth, you will be effectively exporting an intrinsic part of Malaysia which is forever unrecoverable. So don't, never ever do it. If necessary, sell it to another state of Malaysia but never ever to a foreign nation.

As for Pak Haji leaping into the issue, 'Tok 'nak 'char-koay-teow' kah? Wakakaka. 'Nak tanya, macam 'ni halal kah?

😂😂😂

Ronnie Liu: Rights of Selangor pig farmers protected by the Federal Constitution, so let the courts decide

Ronnie Liu: Rights of Selangor pig farmers protected by the Federal Constitution, so let the courts decide

“Constitutionally and historically, pig farming – just as other livestock farming – should be allowed as an economic activity. I concur with PMX – for the first time.

Malaysia badly needs leadership that will uphold the Federal Constitution, Rukun Negara and the inter-communal bargain of 1956-1957 without fear or favour.” – Historian Ranjit Singh Malhi



AMID the chants of derhaka (disloyalty/treason) and “murka” (enraged) by the rightist fraternity in support of Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah’s latest insistence that his decree to ban pig farming Selangor-wide is ‘non-negotiable’, existing hog rearers need not fret for they still have legal recourse to pursue.

Fomer DAP Selangor state publicity secretary Ronnie Liu Tian Khiew urged pig farmers to consider his proposal made to them last month to file a judicial review on the matter.

“Let the courts to decide,” he reiterated in a Facebook post. “Our lawyers believe that farmers’ rights are being protected by the Federal Constitution. And very clear and loud too.

“We don’t expect anyone to say Yes or No to pig farming in the state. We let the courts to be our judge.”

Ronnie Liu Tian Khiew

on Thursday

Pig farmers may have to consider my proposal made to them last month ie to file a judicial review on the matter.

Let the courts to decide.

Our lawyers believe that farmers' rights are being protected by the Federal Constitution.

...See more

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Liu who last served as the Sungai Pelek state assemblyman (May 2018-August 2023) had earlier voiced the concerns of Selangor pig farmers following the Selangor ruler’s “Full Stop!” statement subsequent to the media conference by Madani government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil on Wednesday (May 6).

“The victims, ie pig farmers, are confused and also at a loss. They don’t know what to do. The rakyat are confused, too,” lamented the 68-year-old ex-DAP stalwart who spent 41 years with the party prior to quitting on June 24, 2023.

Ronnie Liu Tian Khiew

on Thursday

The 'full stop' statement from the Istana today came right after the press conference conducted by the spokesperson of the federal government yesterday .

The victims ie pig farmers are confused and also at a loss. They don't know what to do.

The rakyat are confused too.

...See more

30

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This will be a real test of the courage and wisdom of the DAP/PH (Pakatan Harapan) government leaders in Shah Alam and Putrajaya. DAP and PH leaders do know the power enshrined in the Federal Constitution. It’s not for me to advise them what to do next.

Pig farmers are still hoping that the governments they have supported all these years would not turn their back on them.

To re-cap, Fahmi who is also the Communication Minister has revealed that instead of adhering to Sultan Sharafuddin’s desire of no pig farming in Selangor, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has acknowledged Putrajaya’s stance on the strict conditions for opening pig farms in Selangor during his recent audience with the Selangor ruler.

PMX had briefed the Cabinet on the audience session which was also attended by Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

Below are some insightful inputs from a constitutional expert on the power of the Selangor ruler as shared by Liu:

In Selangor, the Sultan has important constitutional powers but the Sultan’s decrees are generally not above the law or the Federal Constitution.

Under Malaysia’s constitutional monarchy system, the Selangor state government runs the state administration through the Menteri Besar (MB) and EXCO while the Sultan acts according to the Selangor State Constitution and the Federal Constitution.
Malaysian Worker Rights

In most matters, the Sultan acts on the advice of the state government. There are a few areas where the Sultan has discretionary authority such as (i) appointment of the MB; (ii) matters concerning Islam in the state; (iii) Malay customs; and (iv) consent for dissolution of the State Assembly.

However, even royal decrees must still comply with the Federal Constitution, state laws and court rulings.

The Federal government can override state matters if Federal law has constitutional supremacy, Parliament has authority over the subject or a court rules the decree unconstitutional.

For Islamic affairs in Selangor, the Sultan is the head of Islam in the state so his authority is especially strong there. But even then, administration is still carried out through state laws and institutions like the Selangor Islamic Religious Council.

However, a major constitutional principle in Malaysia is that the Federal Constitution is supreme without favouring any individual office-holder.

This was reinforced after the 1983 and 1993 constitutional amendments involving the Malay rulers and the Federal government under Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. The amendments clarified that rulers are constitutional monarchs and are subject to law in many areas.– May 8, 2026

Historians want to protect their rice bowl, Khairy

Historians want to protect their rice bowl, Khairy

Mariam Mokhtar
Published: May 8, 2026 2:02 PM
Updated: 4:02 PM



COMMENT | It is disingenuous of Khairy Jamaluddin to criticise Malaysian historians and experts as “cowardly professors” who refuse to speak out while misinformation about the nation’s past continues to spread.

It is always easier when the narrative becomes uncomfortable to blame those who describe it rather than those who shaped its boundaries.

The former minister’s outburst fits neatly into a familiar political reflex, that confusion in public understanding must be the fault of those who failed to speak loudly enough. This framing is too convenient, and it mistakes the symptom for the system.

So, why is Khairy focusing on the silence of historians, instead of the political environment that shaped what could be safely said in the first place?

The core issue is not academic courage; it is political history.

Malaysia’s post-independence nation-building project, especially during the strong Umno era, was deeply shaped by affirmative action policies and the ideological framing of “Ketuanan Melayu” (Malay supremacy) as a central pillar of state identity and political legitimacy.

Our history was never written in a vacuum of pure academic curiosity because it has always existed inside this larger political architecture. These discriminatory policies were further reinforced through the Biro Tata Negara (BTN or National Civics Bureau).

Khairy was possibly referring to International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) academic Solehah Yaacob, whose claims about ancient Romans learning about shipbuilding from the Malays made Malaysia a laughing stock, yet again.

She is not the only lecturer to distort early Malayan history. Even once respected historians have been known to “jaga periuk nasi” (guarding one’s rice pot) and toe the official line.


Challenging narratives

I once attended a lecture in Ipoh in 2011, called “Peristiwa Bukit Kepong, Siapa Wira Sebenar?” (Bukit Kepong Incident, who were the real heroes?)

Two of the speakers were former police chief Haniff Omar and historian Khoo Kay Kim, who said Malaya was never colonised by the British. The audience stared dumbfounded, but few dared to counter them. A majority of the audience were police officers and members of the security forces.

Historian Khoo Kay Kim


Khoo’s comments did not go unnoticed because his former student, Rachel Leow, wrote him an open letter, which went viral. She was a PhD student at Cambridge, and she dared to correct him.

Umno policies of the 1980s-1990s shaped institutional behaviour. Public narratives were tightly controlled. Some were encouraged, others were treated cautiously, and those that generated controversy were banned. Self-censorship and silence became the new norm.

So when people ask why historians appear silent or restrained, the answer they give is not just fear. It is also because of structure.

Post 1969, the political atmosphere punished perceived challenges to sensitive identity frameworks. In time, institutions naturally learned to operate carefully within those boundaries. Public history then took shape.


Non-Malay erasure

Take Kuala Lumpur.

Critics claim that Yap Ah Loy, one of the key founders of modern Kuala Lumpur, has been reduced to little more than a passing mention in school narratives.

The parents who complained about this distortion of our early history say this is not about one missing name. They worry about how stories get flattened over time.

The narrative promoted by some Umno leaders five decades ago was that non-Malays were relatively recent arrivals to the country, having come only within the last 200 years.

Critics argue that this framing ignored the much older presence of Chinese and Indian communities in the Malay peninsula as miners, traders, and spice merchants who arrived through the monsoon trade networks centuries earlier.

Yap Ah Loy

Then there is the deeper past.

Sites such as Bujang Valley in Kedah reflect a long archaeological history of trade, industry, settlement, and Hindu-Buddhist cultural influence in early Southeast Asia.

Had this heritage been more fully preserved and allowed to flourish, with its many artefacts and ancient structures protected, Malaysia might today rival historical treasures such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia or Borobudur in Indonesia.

To many observers, the lack of urgency in preserving these sites gave the impression that the authorities preferred not to draw too much attention to the country’s non-Islamic historical roots.

Furthermore, the Orang Asli are the original settlers of Malaya, but they remain as a mere footnote in history books.


Inheriting an environment of caution

What many parents and some teachers describe to me is not a conspiracy. It is a caution. Certain historical topics, especially those touching on identity, origin narratives, or competing interpretations of early civilisation, may not be discussed freely in institutional settings.

Not because it is formally forbidden, but because, over time, a culture develops where stepping too far outside accepted framing feels risky, unnecessary, or professionally unwise.

Khairy may have criticised historians, but academic caution is not the root problem. This pattern of silence among experts is not unique to history.

In mining, industry, and engineering, warnings about hill development, slope stability, radiation, and ecological risks are often raised early, and without drama.

Yet, those warnings frequently gain public attention only after a disaster forces visibility.

Then the same questions return: who knew, who warned, and why was it not acted on sooner?

The issue is not simply “cowardly professors”. That framing is too easy. It shifts attention away from the longer political and institutional history that shaped what could be safely said, and what could not.

Historians did not design that environment. They inherited it.

And when political actors now express frustration at historical confusion, the harder question is not why some academics are quiet, but how the boundaries of acceptable speech were formed in the first place, and by whom.

History is not only written in books.

It is shaped by political frameworks, institutional incentives, and the long shadow of national narratives, including “Ketuanan Melayu” as a defining feature of Malaysia’s post-independence political architecture.



MARIAM MOKHTAR is a defender of the truth, the admiral-general of the Green Bean Army, and the president of the Perak Liberation Organisation (PLO). Blog, X.

MB office denies speculation on Amirudin's shift to Selayang despite strong indications

MB office denies speculation on Amirudin's shift to Selayang despite strong indications

B Nantha Kumar
Published: May 9, 2026 7:00 AM
Updated: 11:11 AM



The Selangor Menteri Besar’s Office has denied speculations that Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari will be shifting from his Gombak constituency to the parliamentary seat of Selayang in the upcoming 16th general election.

A spokesperson from the office told Malaysiakini that the speculation stemmed from an earlier proposal by Selayang PKR, which wanted Amirudin (above) to contest for the seat.

“There is no truth to this matter. It was merely a proposal from the Selayang division.

“The menteri besar remains committed to serving the people in Gombak and intends to defend his seat in the next general election, if and when the party leadership decides to nominate him,” the spokesperson said.

However, at least two internal party sources told Malaysiakini that the party headquarters has dispatched “scouts” who have been in the field since last month to gauge Amirudin’s chances.

“I can confirm that we have been instructed to go on the ground to obtain feedback from the Selayang constituency.

“The instruction given to us were very specific, which is to assess Amirudin’s chances in the Selayang parliamentary seat.

“A leader from Putrajaya has also been mentioned as a possible replacement for him in Gombak,” one source told Malaysiakini, without naming the leader in question.

Amirudin has been the centre of speculation after a motion was tabled at the 2026 Selayang PKR divisional annual general meeting proposing him as the 16th general election candidate for the constituency.

However, the motion failed to pass after the meeting descended into pandemonium.

Instead, the meeting approved a motion nominating Rawang assemblyperson Chua Wei Kiat, who is also Selayang PKR division chief, as PKR’s candidate for the constituency in the upcoming polls.

‘Seeking a shift’

Former Selayang PKR division chief Kamarudin Hussain confirmed that the proposal to name Amirudin came from grassroots members seeking a shift in the constituency’s political dynamics.

“This area requires experienced and credible leadership with a strong administrative track record.

“The current demographic factor in Selayang, which is now a Malay-majority constituency, calls for the presence of a major figure like Amirudin,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chua declined to comment further on the matter.

William Leong


PKR’s William Leong presently holds the Selayang parliamentary seat.

The PKR treasurer-general is a veteran leader who has held the constituency since 2008.

Leong successfully defended the seat in the previous general election with a 23,619-vote majority against the main challengers from Perikatan Nasional and BN.

However, Leong is expected not to defend the seat in the next general election.


Tough seat to win?

Previously, Malaysiakini reported that an internal analysis by PKR classified Amirudin’s Gombak seat in the Tier 3 category - requiring significant intervention from the party to win.

READ MORE: PKR’s GE16 analysis flags ‘marginal’, ‘red zone’ seats for Anwar and top leaders


Selayang, meanwhile, is classified as a Tier 1 stronghold alongside Bayan Baru, Ampang, Pandan, Subang, Petaling Jaya, and Batu.

It is speculated that several seat changes will be made involving prominent PKR leaders, including rumours that deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar will be moved to Bandar Tun Razak to replace Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.