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Independent Singapore
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Independent Singapore
Dynasty or Democracy? Nurul Izzah's Comeback Sparks Uproar in PKR as Rafizi Cries Foul
Anwar Ibrahim is renowned for his out-of-the-box thinking, which has kept him politically resilient in Malaysia despite the many formidable challenges he has faced throughout his career. His political journey took a dramatic turn in 1998, when he was abruptly dismissed from his post and subsequently jailed. This shocking episode ignited the Reformasi movement—a grassroots push for political reform—that steadily gained momentum and ultimately contributed to the downfall of Barisan Nasional in the historic 2018 general election. Despite decades of political turbulence, betrayals, and backstabbing—common features of Malaysia's political landscape—Anwar remained a central figure. His persistence was rewarded in 2022 when he finally ascended to the prime ministership. However, controversy continues to follow him. Within his own party, Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Anwar is now facing accusations of employing the very same political maneuvers he once condemned. Critics allege that he manipulated internal party dynamics to pave the way for his daughter to defeat the most serious challenger to his leadership, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli—positioning her as his political heir apparent. Yet, unlike past instances where his strategic moves garnered public support, this time, his actions within the party are not resonating with the electorate. This disconnect has cast a shadow over PKR and the broader Pakatan Harapan coalition, which now governs in an uneasy alliance with Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's Barisan Nasional. To fully grasp the challenges Nurul Izzah faces in the months and years leading up to the next general election, it's important to consider the warnings Rafizi Ramli raised during his Hiruk campaign ahead of the recent party elections—an election he ultimately lost to Nurul. The country now watches closely to see whether Rafizi will follow through on his threat to resign from his ministerial post in Anwar Ibrahim's cabinet following his defeat. His campaign had drawn massive crowds and strong support both online and at town hall meetings—support that Nurul currently lacks. Her political capital diminished significantly after she stepped away from active politics following her marriage to a Chinese-Malaysian analyst and her unexpected loss in the 2022 general election for the Permatang Pauh seat, a long-time family stronghold in Penang. In the lead-up to the recent party elections, Nurul Izzah made a sudden return to the political scene. She reclaimed her title as the 'Reformasi Princess' and mounted a challenge for the party's deputy presidency, directly opposing Rafizi. Undeterred by accusations of nepotism and allegations of attempting to establish a political dynasty—given that her mother is an MP and her father is the sitting Prime Minister—Nurul pressed forward with her campaign. See also Key questions as flight MH17 remembered five years on However, Rafizi has accused her of aligning with entrenched party 'cartels'—groups allegedly involved in money politics—who he claims manipulate internal elections by sidelining competent candidates and consolidating control within the party machinery. Nurul Izzah will have to live with the accusations, especially as videos have surfaced showing individuals who voted for her allegedly spending money or making statements suggesting they were acting on instructions from Anwar. These videos imply that funds—reportedly sent by billionaires to the Prime Minister—were used during the party elections but were not officially recorded as campaign expenses. But not everything is cloudy for Nurul. A PAS leader in Kelantan, the bedrock of the Parti Islam Se-Malaysia or PAS, described the upcoming general election as an unpredictable battleground, warning that a united PH-BN coalition could lead to PAS losing up to 15 state assembly seats in Kelantan, excluding already vulnerable areas. He urged PAS to move beyond rhetoric, stay organized, and engage with the public to avoid defeat. He urged PAS's Muslimat (women's wing) and supporters to prepare diligently for the 16th general election, stressing the need for proactive leadership to counter the PH-BN coalition. He cautioned against complacency, likening it to the hare that starts strong but fails in the race, emphasizing this as a real lesson, not a scare tactic. He highlighted Nurul Izzah Anwar's election as PKR deputy president as a significant challenge, particularly for Muslim women, viewing it as a strategic political move with national implications. Mohd Amar noted the influential appeal of women in politics, especially among the majority female voters, warning that without vigilance, this could reshape the country's political landscape. Despite significant backlash from PKR supporters on social media over Rafizi Ramli's ousting from party leadership, a key advantage for PKR and the PH coalition is their current position in power. Anwar Ibrahim hopes the new leadership, particularly Nurul Izzah Anwar, will generate fresh momentum for both the party and the coalition. With time being limited, there is optimism that Nurul Izzah will leverage her charisma to unite the party, rally supporters, and mobilize voters, positioning herself as a strong candidate for Malaysia's first female Prime Minister.
South China Morning Post
24-05-2025
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
Anwar Ibrahim mints a dynasty – but Malaysia's youth aren't buying it
Anwar Ibrahim 's decades-long struggle for reform once inspired a generation to take to the streets, railing against corruption and cronyism. But two years into his tenure as prime minister, the political realities of governance have begun to erode his once-revered 'Reformasi' brand. Critics accuse him of compromising principles for political survival, settling old scores and devising a dynastic succession through his daughter, Nurul Izzah Anwar These are not qualities likely to inspire Malaysia 's 10 million young voters, many of whom feel besieged by the rising cost of living, stagnant wages, a failing healthcare system and schools that do not prepare them for the future job market. 'People said only he could fix the country,' Ahmad Riza, a 25-year-old marketing executive, told This Week in Asia. 'But two years on, he's just another politician.' His sentiments echo those of many within his generation. While voters aged 18 to 39 were decisive to Anwar's win in the 2022 general election , polling suggests they are increasingly indifferent to the political mythologies that defined their parents' loyalties. Anwar Ibrahim shows his ballot at a polling station during the 2022 election. Photo: AP 'My father was a big fan,' said Tobias Lim, a 20-year-old engineering student. 'But I never quite understood why. I see him as a politician for the older generation, not so much for the people my age.'
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Rakyat Post
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Rakyat Post
Nurul Izzah And I [OPINION]
Subscribe to our FREE Astro Awani 501's Instagram report dated May 21, 2025, highlighted that in the second week of Parti Keadilan Rakyat's (PKR) internal election, Nurul Izzah Anwar is leading her contender, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, in the race for the party's Deputy President in a one-on-one contest. The report cited Khairul Arifin Mohd Munir, Senior Research Manager at the Darul Ehsan Institute (IDE), who stated that despite trailing in the first week, Nurul Izzah has managed to galvanize grassroots support as the campaign draws to a close. This report caught my attention. As someone who has been immersed in the broadcasting and current affairs industry for nearly 22 years, I felt compelled to share my perspective. The name Nurul Izzah Anwar is no stranger to Malaysian politics, especially as the daughter of the 10th Prime Minister, PMX Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. She has played a prominent role during the Reformasi movement and has served as a Member of Parliament. I first got to know Nurul Izzah in 2004, four years into my journalism career at ntv7, 'Saluran Ceria Anda.' Our first meeting was in September 2004, shortly after Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's release from prison. She was actively representing the youth voice for political reform. I attended several of these reform forums in Kuala Lumpur, where I heard her bold, resonant speeches. I got to know her more closely around 2006. From that year until 2014, I served as a senior broadcast journalist, deputy assignment editor, assignment editor, and later as editor of special news reports. This period frequently brought me into contact with young PKR political icons like Nurul Izzah, Yusmadi Yusof, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, and Wong Chen—well-known for their fiery oratory during by-elections, state elections, and general elections. Throughout my career, I have covered 10 by-elections, two state elections (Sarawak, 2006 and 2011), and three general elections (2004, 2008, and 2013). At every opposition rally—which has now become the voice of the current Kerajaan Madani—one of the speakers I always looked forward to was Nurul Izzah. I remember the 2008 Permatang Pauh by-election, where Datuk Seri Anwar returned to contest the parliamentary seat vacated by Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail. He won that election on August 26, 2008, securing 31,195 votes, defeating BN candidate Arif Shah (15,524 votes) and independent Hanafi Hamat (92 votes). With a 15,671-vote majority, this was seen as a public referendum against the BN government. In my view, Nurul Izzah played a crucial role in that victory. She was the campaign director and key spokesperson, despite already serving as Lembah Pantai MP, a seat she had won during the 12th General Election in March 2008. Her speeches—gentle in tone but firm in substance—often highlighted urgent local and national issues. As a broadcast journalist, I was drawn to her articulate delivery, time discipline, and clear policy proposals aimed at improving public welfare. As the saying goes, 'like father, like daughter.' During the Permatang Pauh by-election, she appeared almost daily with other PKR leaders like the late Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim and Azmin Ali. She always introduced fresh topics that captivated voters and helped reporters craft compelling news stories. Nurul Izzah contested in three general elections; Lembah Pantai (2008 and 2013), Permatang Pauh (2018). She did not contest in 2022 for personal reasons. In her three elections, she was elected each time—earning the trust of voters to represent them in Parliament. Beyond just being a popular candidate, she is seen as a friend, a family member, someone who connects easily with all communities—Malay, Chinese, Indian, and others. This may stem from her time at Assunta Secondary School in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, which emphasizes humanitarian values and integrity. The last time I interviewed her was during the presentation of Budget 2010. My colleague Melissa Ong conducted the live broadcast from Parliament, while I spoke to Nurul Izzah after the presentation. I had interviewed her before during earlier parliamentary sessions as well, often on pressing national issues. Besides Nurul Izzah, other memorable parliamentary figures during the 2008–2013 sessions included former Batu Gajah MP Fong Po Kuan and veteran former Kepong MP Dr Tan Seng Giaw. Their outspoken nature and unwillingness to back down added color to the proceedings. Today, Nurul Izzah is back in the headlines across print, broadcast, and digital media. She has officially filed her nomination for the PKR Deputy Presidency for the 2025–2028 term. She announced her candidacy on May 9, 2025, stating that the decision was made out of a sense of responsibility for the party and the country's future. Her previous positions in PKR include: Elected Vice President (2010), Reappointed Vice President (2014, 2018), Did not contest party positions in 2022, Appointed Senior Economic and Financial Advisor to PMX in 2023. This time, the Deputy President post is a one-on-one contest between her and incumbent Rafizi Ramli, who also serves as the Minister of Economy. PKR's internal election is scheduled for May 23, 2025. According to records, more than 29,000 delegates are expected to vote—9,000 in person and the remaining 20,000 online. Delegates from all 222 PKR divisions across Malaysia will cast their votes during the party's National Congress, held from May 22 to 24 in Johor Bahru. The question now is: at 44, does Nurul Izzah still have the same political bite she once had? In my view, after nearly 20 years in politics, Nurul Izzah has gained maturity in navigating the complex landscape. Her 'bite' may not be as sharp as it was two decades ago—but she no longer needs to bare her fangs constantly to earn support. She will act decisively when necessary, likely in the final 48 hours before delegates make their decision. In my eyes, she remains PKR's 'Iron Lady,' akin to the late Jaya Lalitha, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. As the saying goes, 'A leader's true intent is reflected in their face.' Though not personally close to her, my impression since 2004 has been that she is driven, sincere in her struggle, and genuinely committed to positive change for both party and country. And now, perhaps the time has come for the woman dubbed Puteri Reformasi (Princess of Reform) to finally assume the party's second most important role. Could this be the beginning of Malaysia's journey toward its first female Prime Minister? It's a pleasing thought. But that decision lies with the delegates, who will cast their votes tonight. These are just my personal reflections, an outsider looking in. To both Nurul Izzah and Rafizi Ramli, I extend my best wishes in this election. By Charles Mohan If you'd like to have your opinion shared on TRP, please send it via email to editorial@ with the title 'OPINION:' or share your thoughts through social media on TRP's Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
New Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Supporters celebrate early as Nurul Izzah leads PKR deputy race
JOHOR BARU: Supporters of Nurul Izzah Anwar appeared cheerful and congratulated her as she arrived at the Persada International Convention Centre tonight. Some visibly excited supporters were seen hugging her, before being signalled by her team to remain discreet. The atmosphere strongly suggested that Nurul Izzah was expected to secure victory in the race for the PKR deputy president post, Berita Harian reported. As of 7pm, reports indicated that she was leading the contest for the party's second-highest leadership post. Nurul Izzah spent about 10 minutes in the convention centre lobby before proceeding into the hall to attend the PKR 2025 National Congress, scheduled to begin at 9pm. Meanwhile, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who is defending his position as PKR deputy president, arrived at the convention centre around 8.25pm. His arrival came roughly 15 minutes after PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who was present to officiate the opening ceremony of the congress. Rafizi was welcomed with thunderous applause and chants of "Reformasi" from his supporters. He acknowledged the crowd with a wave before making his way into the hall. Security at the main entrance of the convention centre was tight, with only delegates and accredited observers permitted entry.
New Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Adam Adli reminds AMK Congress delegates to highlight motions that benefit party, govt
JOHOR BARU: Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK) chief Adam Adli Abdul Halim has reminded the 2024/2025 AMK National Congress delegates to highlight motions that will contribute to the formation of party and government policies during the debate session. He said the motions presented should be based on real issues and should not be limited solely to the internal scope of the party. Adam Adli said this at a press conference after delivering his keynote address at the congress, which is themed "Membangun Madani, Menuju Reformasi", here today. On concerns about potential internal division within the PKR following the new leadership election, Adam Adli, who is also the deputy youth and sports minister, said that based on previous election experience, he is confident that such a situation will not occur. "What is most important is how, after the contest, we close ranks. "The PKR elections are open and that's why they are often seen as heated, but I can give an assurance that everyone who is contesting is extremely loyal to the party's struggles," he said. The three-day 2024/2025 PKR National Congress began yesterday with the simultaneous opening of the AMK and Wanita wings, to be followed by a keynote speech and the official opening of the congress by party president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tonight. The congress also features the party's leadership election for the 2025-2028 term, covering the Central Leadership Council (MPP), Central AMK Leadership Council, and Central Women's Leadership Council, which is held from 8am to 5pm. A total of 251 candidates are contesting in the election, comprising 104 nominations for the MPP, 85 candidates for the AMK Leadership Council and 62 for the Women's Leadership Council. – Bernama
