Malaysia votes

How Malaysia's election will be won or lost

Economic concerns seen as top priority for voters, with multi-cornered fights expected

Flags of Parti Amanah Negara, Barisan Nasional (BN) and Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) are seen in Sungai Besar, Selangor, in 2016.
Flags of Parti Amanah Negara, Barisan Nasional (BN) and Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) are seen in Sungai Besar, Selangor, in 2016.PHOTO: THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
Prime Minister Najib Razak with supporters after Friday prayers in Putrajaya yesterday. Analysts say support from the lower income is likely due to the Najib administration pouring billions into welfare programmes such as direct cash aid, subsidies f
Prime Minister Najib Razak with supporters after Friday prayers in Putrajaya yesterday. Analysts say support from the lower income is likely due to the Najib administration pouring billions into welfare programmes such as direct cash aid, subsidies for basic goods, and housing for poorer Malaysians.PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Members of the Democratic Action Party singing the national anthem during an opposition rally last month in Ayer Hitam, Johor.
Members of the Democratic Action Party singing the national anthem during an opposition rally last month in Ayer Hitam, Johor.ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG
Shannon Teoh Malaysia Bureau Chief In Kuala Lumpur
  • Published
    Apr 7, 2018, 5:00 am SGT
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"It's the economy, stupid!"

Surveys and strategists on both sides of the political divide have asserted that Malaysians will vote with their pockets in the general election.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 07, 2018, with the headline 'How Malaysia's polls will be won or lost'. Subscribe
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