What is the new order Malaysia needs after defeating the old one?

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Malaysia Needs a New Political Order Based on Shared Rules and Predictability

Following the defeat of the old political order, Malaysia requires a new framework centred on shared rules, predictable governance, and a prime minister whose role is to bridge diverse political forces rather than wield absolute power. This new order aims to foster stability by moving beyond the era of the "big man" prime minister and implementing clear guidelines for political conduct, ensuring that both the government and the opposition function within defined parameters. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable political system that can adapt to evolving societal expectations and economic needs, providing consistency for businesses and citizens alike.
A Shift from Top-Down Power to Collaborative Governance

The previous political system, characterised by a top-down approach and a prime minister wielding significant personal authority, is no longer tenable. In the contemporary political landscape, the prime minister's influence is not an "iron fist" but rather a capacity to unite various parties within the government. This revised role necessitates a focus on consensus-building and maintaining coalition cohesion, as demonstrated by the need for a leader to "hold the government together." The era where a prime minister was perceived as "bigger than everyone" and possessed unchecked control over government affairs has concluded, demanding a more collaborative style of leadership.
Implementing New "Traffic Rules" for Political Stability

To prevent political collisions and ensure smooth functioning, a new set of "traffic rules," or guides to conduct, is essential. While the anti-party hopping law serves as a positive step towards stabilising the political party system, further measures are required. These new rules should encompass agreements among all parties to legislate future government conduct, guaranteeing that the Opposition receives its rightful allocations and access to parliamentary committees. Conversely, the powers of the governing party must be limited to curb practices such as unnecessary appointments and "support buying," ensuring a more equitable political environment.
Learning from Past Instability and Ensuring Policy Continuity

The persistence of political instability, even with the return of parties like Umno to power, stems from an attempt to govern using methods from previous decades that are no longer effective. The "Sheraton Move" in February 2020, which saw an entire party defect and realign, exemplifies the need to address systemic issues beyond individual lawmakers. To achieve predictability and policy continuity, which are crucial for businesses and the public, a consensus between the government and the Opposition is vital. This agreement would ensure that beneficial policies remain in place irrespective of changes in government, fostering a stable economic and social environment.
Evolving Expectations: From Political Champions to Good Governance

Supporters now expect more than just political champions; they demand good governance from their elected representatives. This shift in expectations means that political discourse must move beyond demagoguery towards offering coherent leadership and well-thought-out governing ideas. Lawmakers, particularly those in the Opposition, need to articulate how they intend to govern, present their policy proposals, and demonstrate their capacity to unite the nation. Governing effectively involves making difficult trade-offs and convincing the public with concrete solutions, a departure from the past where offering solutions was less critical in political campaigns.

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What is the new order Malaysia needs after defeating the old one?

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