‘Malay unity’ theme drove Chinese votes to DAP, says analyst
Oh Ei Sun says Chinese voters were uncomfortable with the election theme actively championed by PAS.
Analysts say unease over the "Malay unity" theme advocated by PAS and Barisan Nasional led many Chinese voters in Melaka to support DAP and Pakatan Harapan, aiding the party's stronghold retention. PAS actively promoted the theme, resulting in 24 of the 28 contested seats going to BN-Perikatan Nasional. DAP won all four of its contests, securing two Chinese-majority areas and mixed seats.
Analysts suggest Chinese voters remain uneasy with the "Malay unity" theme, especially as PAS is involved. The "Malay unity" theme strengthened Umno's support in its strongholds, making it harder for PH to counter the message. PKR's poor performance was attributed to slow reforms and internal disputes, eroding voter confidence. Adly Zahari's loss in Bukit Katil was partly due to the dominant "Malay unity" wave.
PH faces a trust deficit among Malay voters, and analysts suggest they need to improve their delivery of everyday benefits or work with Malay NGOs to expand their influence.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
