As political analyst Oh Ei Sun aptly observed, “Most by-elections are referendums of some sort. Each side wants to show that they still have the support of the people.” This insight rings particularly true for Sungai Bakap, a region that embodies the complexities and challenges facing Anwar Ibrahim’s administration. Far from being a mere local […]
22
Mar
Mar
On Thursday, March 21st, along with a delegation from Barisan Nasional (BN), I participated in a Sesi Libat Urus with the Home Ministry and the Unity Government Secretariat regarding the proposed constitutional amendments affecting citizenship rules, as part of the Government’s endeavors to engage stakeholders in this matter. Along with representatives from the other political […]
Featured, Women and Children
Beyond International Women’s Day: A Look at Malaysia’s Legal Milestones for Gender Equality
13
Mar
Mar
Last week, I had the extraordinary privilege of speaking at the EmpowerHER Symposium on International Women’s Day. The symposium offered a beautifully nuanced exploration of women’s empowerment. There was a diverse range of speakers, each bringing their unique expertise and perspective to the table. This multifaceted approach to empowerment resonated deeply with me, and It […]
COVID-19 in Malaysia, Featured
Can Malaysia’s Economy Survive Another Covid Wave? An Open Letter to Dr Dzul
14
Dec
Dec
Dear Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad, Our heartfelt congratulations on your appointment as Malaysia’s new Health Minister. As you step into this position, we extend our best wishes and hopes for a more successful tenure than your predecessor; one that prioritises the health and well-being of a nation. Many rejoiced at your return, however, it is crucial […]
Featured, Politics
Leveling the Playing Field: A Look at Malaysia’s Proposed Political Financing Bill
13
Dec
Dec
Political financing is one of Malaysia’s “legacy” problems. Almost every major milestone of Malaysian politics is concerned with political financing troubles. In the past, the ruling BN government has been accused of receiving donations from local corporations, while the opposition PR and PH coalitions have similarly been accused of receiving donations from shadowy foreign entities. […]
22
Nov
Nov
From the moment I learned that I’m expecting again, my heart was thrown into a world of complex emotions. There’s a deep, resonant hope within me for a smooth, healthy, and complete pregnancy journey this time around. Yet, this hope is delicately intertwined with threads of apprehension and memories of my first pregnancy—a journey that […]
Featured, Politics
Integration or Assimilation: To Detract From Integration Model is to Belittle Everyday Malaysians
16
Nov
Nov
“There was assimilation, for example people from Arab countries and India, they have been assimilated. (The Chinese and Indian immigrants) refused, not that we did not insist, but they looked down on us, we wanted them to become Malays. They didn’t want to be known as Malays.” — Dr Mahathir. In a recent Keluar Sekejap […]
14
Nov
Nov
Who could have foreseen that Malaysia’s anti-party hopping law enacted in 2022 would be inadequate in undoing a deep-rooted curse of political frogs? Oh, right, just about anyone with a basic understanding of politics beyond wishful thinking. When the idea of having an anti-hopping law provision was first floated around, it was recognised as a […]
02
Jun
Jun
A disconcerting culture of gaslighting has firmly taken root in Malaysian politics, weaving a web of deception that manipulates perceptions and erodes the trust of the people. ‘Gaslighting’ is a term many of us are at least somewhat familiar with. In fact, It became the Word of the Year for 2022, according to Merriam-Webster, following […]
15
Mar
Mar
Access to quality pre-school childcare can play an important role in a child’s development. Quality childcare can provide children with opportunities to learn, develop social skills and build self-esteem. It can also support parents in their parenting role and help build a strong parent-child relationship. Motherhood begins with much hope and anticipation, but for many […]