The upcoming by-election in Sungai Bakap set on July 6, 2024 (Saturday) as the polling date with the nomination and early voting on June 22, 2024 (Saturday) and July 2, 2024 (Tuesday) respectively, is proving to be a contentious and complex issue.
The timing of this election is particularly sensitive due to the recent implementation of the removal of diesel bulk subsidies. This move has sparked significant public discontent and is poised to play a critical role in the political dynamics surrounding the by-election.
Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, aware of the potential backlash, has openly acknowledged that he is prepared to face strong criticisms from opposition parties and the public over the fuel rationalization issue. The removal of subsidies is a deeply unpopular decision, and it is expected to impact the by-election heavily. Anwar's readiness to confront these criticisms reflects the high stakes involved in this policy shift.
Sungai Bakap is a state seat designated to Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Anwar Ibrahim's party, representing the unity government coalition. The electorate of 39279 voters, consisting of diverse racial backgrounds (Malay 59%, Chinese 22%, Indian 17%, Others 0.7%), may see this by-election as an opportunity to express their dissatisfaction with the blanket removal of the diesel subsidy. The looming possibility of the removal of the Ron 95 subsidy only exacerbates these tensions. This dissatisfaction transcends ethnic lines, making it a unifying issue for voters who feel the economic strain caused by rising fuel prices.
Contrasting the situation with the recent Kuala Kubu Bharu by-election, where the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition secured a win largely due to the strong support from the Chinese ethnic group for the Democratic Action Party (DAP), the dynamics in Sungai Bakap are different. The victory in Kuala Kubu Bharu was not necessarily an endorsement of Anwar Ibrahim but rather a reflection of ethnic support dynamics. In Sungai Bakap, however, the electorate's sentiment towards Anwar and his policies will be under scrutiny.
PH's prospects in the Sungai Bakap by-election are uncertain. The fuel subsidy issue is perceived as a significant liability, ingrained in public perception as a precursor to further hardships. The anticipated domino effect of fuel price hikes on the cost of living has left many voters wary and resentful.
Furthermore, voters are constantly reminded on social media of the narrative, "Where is the promise of 'Kita Menang, Harga Minyak Turun'?" However, Anwar Ibrahim said it is unfair to use statements he made 16 years ago about lowering oil prices to criticize him now. Anwar explained that the circumstances then were not the same as they are now. He clarified that petrol prices could not be lowered to RM1.50 per litre due to developments involving current world crude oil prices compared to his promise made 16 years ago.
The negative sentiment poses a substantial risk to PKR and the PH coalition, potentially swaying the electorate against them.
The Sungai Bakap by-election is enveloped in an enigma, driven by the timing of the controversial subsidy removals and the subsequent public backlash. Anwar Ibrahim and his party face an uphill battle in capturing this state seat amid widespread discontent over economic policies.
The outcome of this by-election will serve as a crucial barometer of public sentiment towards the government's fuel rationalization measures and could have broader implications for the political landscape in Malaysia.
By: Kpost
Information Source:
Malaymail, The Straits Times, The Malaysian Insight, Malaysia Now, Astro Awani, New Straits Times
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