The 2018 Malaysian General Election; A Seismic Shift in Malaysian Politics and The Rise of a New Political Order

History rarely offers clean breaks. Instead, it prefers subtle shifts, gradual erosion, and the slow accumulation of change. Occasionally, though, events erupt that defy this pattern – moments so seismic they shatter the existing order and pave the way for something entirely new. The 2018 Malaysian general election was one such event, a political earthquake that toppled a six-decade-old regime and ushered in an era of unprecedented uncertainty and hope.

For decades, Malaysia had been governed by the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). This dominance stemmed from a complex interplay of factors – ethnic politics, patronage networks, control over media, and strategic alliances with regional parties. While the BN enjoyed considerable electoral success, its grip on power was increasingly challenged by rising inequality, allegations of corruption, and growing discontent amongst younger generations who yearned for political reform and economic opportunity.

The catalyst for change came in the form of a scandal involving the state investment fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Allegations of massive financial impropriety, embezzlement, and money laundering, implicating high-ranking BN officials, rocked the country. The scandal provided fertile ground for the opposition, led by the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition, to galvanize public support and present itself as a viable alternative.

The 2018 election campaign was characterized by intense political battles, with both sides vying for votes through rallies, debates, and social media campaigns. The BN focused on its track record of economic development and stability, while the PH promised clean governance, reduced cost of living, and greater accountability.

Factor	Barisan Nasional (BN)	Pakatan Harapan (PH)
Economic Policy	Emphasized continued growth and investment.	Promised to address inequality and reduce the cost of living.
Governance	Highlighted its experience and stability.	Pledged clean governance, transparency, and anti-corruption measures.
Campaign Strategy	Traditional rallies and media outreach.	Utilized social media effectively to engage younger voters.

On May 9th, 2018, Malaysians went to the polls, casting their votes in what many considered a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. The results were astonishing: Pakatan Harapan secured a simple majority, ending the BN’s uninterrupted rule since independence. This victory marked the first time an opposition coalition had defeated the incumbent government in Malaysia, sending shockwaves through the region and inspiring hope for democratic change elsewhere.

The consequences of this monumental shift were profound:

• End of UMNO Dominance: The 2018 election shattered UMNO’s decades-long monopoly on power, forcing the party to undergo a period of introspection and reform.

• Rise of Multi-Ethnic Politics: The PH coalition brought together diverse political parties representing different ethnic groups, paving the way for a more inclusive political landscape.

• Increased Scrutiny and Accountability: The new government pledged greater transparency and accountability, leading to investigations into past corruption allegations and a renewed focus on good governance.

• Economic Uncertainty: While the PH promised economic reforms, the transition of power led to some initial economic instability as investors grappled with the implications of the change.

The 2018 Malaysian general election remains a landmark event in Southeast Asian history. It demonstrated the enduring power of democratic aspirations and the potential for peaceful transitions even in long-established political systems. While the full consequences of this seismic shift are still unfolding, the election serves as a powerful reminder that nothing is permanent in politics – and that even seemingly immovable structures can be shaken to their foundations by the collective will of the people.

It’s worth noting that while the PH government successfully implemented some reforms, it faced internal challenges and ultimately collapsed after just 22 months. This unexpected turn underscored the fragility of new political orders and highlighted the ongoing complexities of Malaysian politics. Nevertheless, the 2018 election remains a potent symbol of change, inspiring Malaysians to continue striving for a more just and equitable society.