Curret events asia- Malaysia

http://www.economist.com/node/21528615

Laura LeBlanc

Politics are facing reform in Malaysia. Current Prime Minister Najib Razik of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) party now is beginning to but heads with other parties. In 1959 Malaysia gained independence from Britain since then the prime minister and majority of parliament has been UMNO, now for the first time since then the UMNO has lost it’s two third majority in parliament. With a 59% approval rating and rise of other parties, Razik fears the outcome of the next election. It is scheduled for 2013 however it is expected to move up possibly to this year. Razik wants time to increase his popularity but also fears that with time the opposing parties may grow. However, the opposing coalition (democratic coalition party) is facing problems. Their leader Anwar Ibrahim is on trial for sodomy, which is illegal in Malaysia. This would be the second time if he goes to jail for this. Ibrahim was the main likely candidate for Prime minister. So in some time the DCP will have to decide on a candidate. Despite scandal the Malaysians will most likely vote for whichever candidate best represents their ideals.