Turun Anwar: PM's position strengthened or a turning point in Malaysian politics?
With turnout estimated at under 30,000 and largely dominated by Malay-Muslim participants, the event exposed deeper undercurrents in Malaysian politics.
Professor James Chin observed the lack of multiracial participation and NGO support, pointing to the rally's limited appeal beyond Perikatan Nasional and PAS's core base.
'There was minimal NGO support and virtually no traction with the non-Malay communities,' said Chin, adding that this reflected a failure to build a broad-based coalition for change.
He also cited the involvement of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as a liability.
'Mahathir's credibility is no longer what it once was. Many see his stance as driven more by personal animosity toward Anwar than genuine reform,' Chin said, concluding that the rally may have inadvertently strengthened Anwar's position.
However, Australian academic and long-time observer of Malaysian politics Dr Murray Hunter interpreted the rally as a powerful statement by PAS.
'This wasn't just about Anwar stepping down. It was about who will rule Malaysia in the future.'
Hunter noted the absence of the Reformasi-era crowd and warned that parties like PKR and Amanah may struggle to stay relevant in the future.
'Malaysia is now at a crossroads, between a reformist democracy, elite-controlled governance, or an Islamic state.' He added that the turnout suggests a growing ideological shift.
'What we're witnessing is the beginning of a political revolution, led by a generation that believes Islamic governance offers real solutions. The old Malaysia is being challenged — openly and decisively.' —July 27, 2025
Main image: Kosmo
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