Tun M Says That Malaysia Lags Behind Indonesia Because of Country’s Political Instability

Following the results of the 15th General Election there was some political instability as politicians and political parties and coalitions battled to secure power.

This instability lasted 5 days as Malaysia went for 5 days without a Prime Minister as GE15 had not produced a clear winning party or coalition.

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has since stated that this type of political instability is what makes the country lags behind neighbouring countries.

In an interview with Nikkei Asia, Mahathir lauded Indonesia for its political stability, which he said is helping the neighbouring country outdraw Malaysia for foreign investment.

Mahathir said that he thought that by holding elections, Malaysia “would have a strong government and be more politically stable. But, unfortunately, the elections did not result in any party having enough seats to form a government.”

He said the result – opposing political forces coming together to forge a government – “is not a very good solution to the problem”.

“Before elections, if you work together, that’s fine. But after elections … that’s a marriage of convenience. Sometimes the newlyweds get along well, sometimes they don’t.”

He then contrasted Malaysia’s political scene with what Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo has accomplished since first being elected in 2014.

Mahathir said that Indonesia’s political stability as well as Widodo’s strong and efficient leadership have allowed the country to overtake Malaysia in recent years in attracting foreign investment and “many projects” and described Widodo as “much stronger” than recent leaders.

He also called Widodo a leader who loves his country and is focused on developing it, saying that in this respect, he and Widodo are similar. “We both want to do our best for our countries”, he said.

“So far, his family does not interfere, doesn’t demand anything. He is able to carry out his work without interference from his family.”

What do you think of Tun M’s statements? Do you agree?

Also read: “I’m sad but it’s the rakyat’s choice” – Tun M Says He’ll Focus On Writing History Of Malaysia