In response to rising concerns of racial polarisation in Malaysian election outcomes, Perikatan Nasional (PN) election director Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has highlighted that ethnic considerations play a significant role in voters’ choices. Addressing a press conference after being sworn in as Menteri Besar for a second term, Sanusi acknowledged the trend of polarisation both in seats won by PN and Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidates. He emphasized the need to move beyond ethnic lines and urged voters to evaluate political parties based on their performance.
Unraveling Racial Polarisation: Sanusi’s Insights
Sanusi, PN’s election director, addressed the growing concern of racial polarisation within the context of recent Malaysian elections. While acknowledging the existence of this trend in seats won by PN, he highlighted that it is equally prevalent in constituencies secured by Pakatan Harapan candidates. He noted that this pattern of voting along racial lines reflects the ethnic basis upon which many political parties in Malaysia are founded.
Ethnic Considerations Influence Voter Decisions
Sanusi delved into the dynamics underlying voter choices, emphasizing the role of ethnicity in shaping electoral outcomes. He observed that in constituencies where PN did not emerge victorious, voters tended to cast their ballots based on ethnic affiliations rather than the parties represented by the candidates. This phenomenon, he argued, merits careful examination in a country where political parties often align with specific ethnic groups.
Beyond Ethnicity: Evaluating Party Performance
Challenging the prevailing trend of ethnic-based voting, Sanusi urged voters to adopt a broader perspective. He stressed that political parties’ performance and policies should take precedence over racial sentiment when making electoral decisions. He cited the example of PN’s success in Kedah, where a majority of voters supported the party based on considerations beyond ethnic lines.
Diverse Representation and Fairness
Addressing concerns about inclusive representation, Sanusi assured that his administration would uphold fairness and inclusivity. Despite PN having only one assemblyman from Gerakan, he affirmed that non-Malay communities would not face discrimination. With approximately 26 to 27 percent of Kedah’s voters being non-Malays, Sanusi underscored the importance of serving the needs of all communities without bias or selectivity.
Looking Forward: Inclusive Governance
Sanusi expressed his administration’s commitment to inclusivity by considering Gerakan assemblyman Wong Chia Zen for a role in the state executive council. This move reflects the administration’s dedication to addressing non-Muslim affairs and catering to the needs of diverse communities. Sanusi concluded by reiterating his administration’s stance against discrimination and selectivity, emphasizing that the needs of the non-Malay community in Kedah would be treated with fairness and equality.