Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Unity Government is facing mounting criticism for allegedly backtracking on its promise of reforms, with key policies and legislation drawing ire from both supporters and detractors.
The government has tightened its grip on internet regulation through amendments to the Communication and Multimedia Act, raising concerns about increased censorship and restricted dissent. The controversial Sedition Act, once denounced by Pakatan Harapan (PH), remains in place under Anwar’s administration, with assurances that it is a temporary measure until a new National Security Bill is introduced.
Critics argue that such measures mirror the strategies of past governments to stifle freedoms, undermining the reformasi ideals that propelled PH into power. The justification offered by PH leaders—that these tools are insurance and will not be widely used—echoes the very rhetoric they once condemned.
Reformati?
Opposition figures and even some within PH’s ranks accuse Anwar of steering the coalition away from its reformist roots. The dissent within PKR, Anwar’s own party, has become increasingly visible despite attempts to silence critics. Meanwhile, tensions between PKR-PH and its coalition partner, Umno, further highlight deepening fault lines.
For many, the contrast is stark: the movement that once championed reformasi now appears to embody what some have dubbed “reformati.” Scrutiny, transparency, and independent oversight—hallmarks of the reformasi movement—seem to be taking a back seat in favor of maintaining political stability.
As the nation reflects on its democratic journey, questions loom over whether Malaysia was ever truly a bastion for democracy. Under Anwar’s leadership, the country appears to be learning more from its past than striving toward the reformist future once promised.
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