Key facts
- Sarawak state assembly dissolved Monday.
- Anwar Ibrahim's coalition faces test of support.
- Internal coalition tensions persist.
- Sarawak seeks greater autonomy over oil and gas resources.
Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's ruling coalition will face a test of its public support amid signs of internal tensions after two states this week called snap elections. The oil-rich state of Sarawak will dissolve its assembly on Monday, a move seen as a test of political strength for the regional coalition whose support is crucial to Anwar's government.
Anwar is facing growing pressure following electoral setbacks for his own coalition in Peninsular Malaysia. Speculation is mounting over an early national poll, with sources suggesting Malaysia could head to the polls as early as the second half of 2026. Government administrative officers have been placed on alert, and certain government resources are on standby.
There have been differences within Anwar's ruling alliance on how to tackle ethnic and religious issues, and frustration has grown among his progressive allies over the slow pace of reforms. Anwar has also come under pressure from the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) over its push for a royal pardon for former prime minister Najib Razak. Barisan Nasional has stated it would contest the Johor state polls independently without Pakatan's support.