New: Anwar’s Tambun Seat Faces Rising Electoral Pressure

IPOH, Sept 11, 2026 — A sitting prime minister’s constituency is often seen as a ruling‑party stronghold, but Anwar Ibrahim’s Tambun seat in Perak may prove otherwise. An internal Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) analysis leaked in May suggested Tambun could be marginal, raising concerns ahead of the next general election due in early 2028.

The report highlighted the growing consolidation of Malay votes by UMNO and PAS, which cooperated in recent Johor and Negeri Sembilan state polls. Local PAS leader Hafez Sabri, deputy national youth chief, has boosted the party’s appeal by engaging youth through Islamic‑compliant music and sports events, including a traditional rebana and kompang festival.

Tambun Seat

Meanwhile, PKR’s traditional support base among Chinese and Indian voters has weakened, with internal data showing declines of 2 per cent and 30 per cent respectively in the Negeri Sembilan polls compared with GE15. Analysts warn that if UMNO‑PAS unity persists, no PKR seat can be considered safe.

Political analyst Kamles Kumar noted Anwar’s national duties may limit his ground presence, giving challengers an edge. While Anwar’s status commands respect, Tambun is no longer the secure seat it appeared to be in 2022.

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