Anwar Ibrahim weighs delaying Malaysia general election to late 2027 amid poll setbacks

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is looking to push back national elections until the second half of next year, people familiar with the matter said, as state poll defeats and soured partnerships reveal his political vulnerability.

That time frame would mark a significant delay. Just months ago, the 79-year-old leader was said to be mulling a snap election as soon as this October, perceiving his greatest risk at the time to be rising fuel prices.

But two humbling state election losses since then, along with the growing risk of a split with a key coalition partner, have delayed that schedule until after the 2028 budget release – possibly around next October, according to the people, who asked not to be identified detailing private strategy deliberations.

Another consideration is the expected boost to public sentiment when Malaysia hosts the Southeast Asian Games in September 2027, said one of the people.

No final decision had been made on the timing of the next general election, the people said. Anwar’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

Umno politicians give a prayer of thanksgiving after the Negeri Sembilan election results in August, when they won 16 seats. Photo: Facebook

The premier told parliament last month that his government should complete a full term to safeguard political stability and economic growth. “So, let us work. We have a mandate,” he said. “When the election comes, then we can battle it out. I have no issue with that.”

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