If history repeats itself, and the unexpected always happens, how incapable must man be of learning from experience.– George Bernard Shaw, Irish political activist
Malaysians have endured years of political instability, a reality that many citizens hoped had ended with the formation of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government on Nov 24, 2022.
But, recent rumours of yet another potential backdoor government or popularly known as kerajaan pintu belakang among locals, have sparked unease, rekindling nightmares of the political chaos that has plagued the country since the historic defeat of Barisan Nasional in the 2018 general election.
For the average Malaysian, particularly those in Sarawak, the mere suggestion of yet another change in leadership conjures frustration and fatigue. The people have had enough of power plays; it is time for the current government to be allowed to govern and deliver on its promises.
The last five years have been a whirlwind of political turnover. Since Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s ouster in 2018, the country has seen four prime ministers. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad’s second tenure, while initially celebrated, lasted only 22 months before his administration fell to the infamous Sheraton Move.
His successor, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, fared no better, holding office for less than 18 months. Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob then briefly served as the nation’s ninth prime minister, with his tenure lasting just over a year.
Anwar, who is now two years into his leadership, represents the longest period of political stability in recent times. Yet, even this fragile stability is now under threat.
Rumours are rife that certain factions within the unity government are plotting to unseat Anwar. Allegedly, a group of 17 disgruntled PKR leaders, supported by Umno members aligned with a former sacked leader, is conspiring to destabilise the administration.
The plot reportedly includes backing from two MCA and one MIC MPs, who feel sidelined in Anwar’s Cabinet, as well as Sabah-based Warisan, which has no ministerial representation in the current government.
These allegations, while unverified, have nonetheless stoked anxiety, highlighting the never-ending political manoeuvring in Malaysia.
For Sarawak, such political gamesmanship is a cause for concern but not one it wishes to participate in, as the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition, which played a key role in forming the unity government, has made its stance clear: Our priority is stability and the fulfilment of promises, particularly those linked to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
The state’s leaders and people see no benefit in aligning with any plot to unseat Anwar. Their support for the unity government is rooted in the desire for consistent leadership that can deliver on the economic and social development that Malaysia – and Sarawak in particular – desperately need.
The idea of yet another backdoor government is deeply unpalatable to many Malaysians, Sarawakians in particular. The political chaos of recent years has already caused significant damage. The Sheraton Move in 2020, which ousted the Pakatan Harapan government, set a dangerous precedent for power grabs outside the electoral process.
The subsequent administrations were hamstrung by short tenures and a lack of clear mandates, leaving critical policy initiatives unfinished and the public disillusioned. Another change in leadership, especially one that bypasses the democratic process, would only deepen this disillusionment, further eroding trust in the country’s political institutions.
Economically, the stakes are high. Malaysia is grappling with global uncertainties, inflation, and the need to attract foreign investments to remain competitive in the region. Political instability sends the wrong message to investors, who value predictability and a clear policy direction.
A kerajaan pintu belakang would almost certainly stall economic initiatives, disrupt development plans, and undermine confidence in Malaysia’s ability to provide a stable business environment. The current administration, for all its imperfections, has shown signs of addressing these challenges, and it should be allowed to continue its work uninterrupted.
Socially, the constant upheaval in leadership exacerbates divisions among Malaysia’s diverse communities. Political alliances in the country are often drawn along ethnic and religious lines, and any attempt to topple the unity government risks inflaming these divisions further.
The current coalition, while far from perfect, represents a unique opportunity for a more inclusive and representative government. Disrupting this progress would not only set the nation back but also undermine efforts to foster unity among its people.
Sarawak’s stance in this political landscape is particularly noteworthy. Unlike some factions in Malaya, GPS has consistently prioritised stability over political manoeuvring. Sarawak, under the popular leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, understands that the state has much to gain from a steady federal government that can deliver on its promises.
MA63 remains a critical issue for the state, encompassing matters like oil and gas revenue, territorial rights, and equitable development. These are not issues that can be addressed amid the chaos of a leadership change. By supporting the unity government, Sarawak is not only securing its own interests but also setting an example of responsible governance for the rest of the country.
The unity government has made progress on several fronts, though much work remains to be done. Economic recovery, governance reforms, and social equity are all long-term projects that require consistent leadership to succeed.
The government’s resolute to address MA63 grievances, for instance, has been a significant factor in maintaining Sarawak’s support. Disrupting this administration now would risk derailing these efforts, leaving critical initiatives unfinished and the nation’s progress stalled.
It is also important to consider the public’s perspective. Malaysians have grown weary of constant elections and political manoeuvring. In the last decade, the country has seen a general election, numerous state elections, and the fallout of the Sheraton Move.
Voter fatigue is real, and any attempt to engineer yet another change in government would only deepen the public’s frustration. The people want stability and solutions, not more political drama.
Despite the rumours, there are glimmers of hope that not all leaders are willing to be involved in these power plays. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi recently revealed that he was approached for support for a new unity government but rejected it.
While his motivations may be subject to scrutiny, his decision to publicly denounce the move sends a strong message against opportunistic power grabs. It also reflects the importance of respecting the mandate given to the current administration.
The unity government deserves a chance to complete its term. Anwar’s administration has shown promise, particularly in navigating economic challenges and fostering inclusivity. The unfinished business of fulfilling electoral promises, particularly those related to MA63, demands continuity and commitment. Bringing down the government now would only disrupt these efforts, to the detriment of all Malaysians.
We cannot afford another kerajaan pintu belakang – not now, not ever! The political stability that the nation desperately needs can only be achieved if leaders put aside their personal ambitions and focus on governance.
The GPS coalition has shown what responsible leadership looks like, prioritising the well-being of its people over petty politics. This is a model that Malayan leaders would do well to emulate.
The people have entrusted the unity government with the task of steering Malaysia forward. It is time for the nation’s leaders to honour that trust and prove that they are worthy of it. Political gamesmanship may offer short-term gains, but it is only through good governance that lasting progress can be secured.
Let sanity prevail, and let Malaysia move forward.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
