Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s ruling coalition is set to undergo a key test of its public support following the dissolution of two state assemblies this week, amid growing speculation over the possibility of an early general election.
Negeri Sembilan and Johor, both governed by parties aligned to Anwar’s national administration, have triggered snap state polls after their assemblies were dissolved on Friday and Monday respectively. Elections are expected to be held within 60 days.
While the upcoming state elections will not directly affect the federal government’s parliamentary majority, analysts warn that any significant losses could weaken the coalition’s standing ahead of a general election due by early 2028.
Anwar, who leads a coalition made up of Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional and other partners, has previously indicated that widening internal divisions could prompt consideration of an early nationwide election.
His office has yet to respond to the latest developments, as political tensions continue to emerge within the governing alliance over key policy and governance issues.
Differences have reportedly surfaced among coalition partners regarding ethnic and religious policies in the country’s multi-racial political landscape, while dissatisfaction has also grown among progressive allies over the perceived slow pace of reforms.
Pressure has also intensified from within Barisan Nasional, particularly from Umno, over calls for a royal pardon for former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who was jailed in 2022 over his role in the 1MDB scandal.
At present, Pakatan Harapan governs Negeri Sembilan, which was not due for an election until 2028, while Barisan Nasional leads Johor, where polls were originally expected next year.
Tensions within the coalition have become more visible, with Barisan Nasional signalling it may contest the Johor election independently without Pakatan’s backing.
In Negeri Sembilan, Pakatan is expected to contest all 36 seats, having previously secured 17 seats in the last state election.
Meanwhile, Melaka and Sarawak are also expected to hold state elections in the coming months, further adding to the country’s busy political calendar.
The Election Commission has indicated that an early general election could allow state polls to be held concurrently, potentially reducing costs and streamlining the electoral process.
