The 14th General Election (GE14) held on May 9, 2018, was not just an ordinary democratic process. It made history as the most dramatic and shocking moment in Malaysian politics, when the opposition coalition successfully overthrew Barisan Nasional (BN)—the ruling party that had governed Malaysia since independence for over 60 years.
This article examines that historic moment—how it happened, why the people chose to change, and what its long-term impact was on the country’s political landscape.
📜 Background: 60 Years of Barisan Nasional’s Dominance
Since gaining independence in 1957, Malaysia was governed by the Alliance (and later, Barisan Nasional). This party dominated Parliament through one election after another, with a strong government machinery, support from rural grassroots, and continuous political stability.
However, in the 2000s and 2010s, Malaysians began to voice their dissatisfaction with issues such as:
- Large-scale corruption (including the 1MDB scandal)
- Rising cost of living
- The burdensome GST tax
- Economic inequality
- Weaknesses in public and judicial institutions
This anger reached a peak leading up to GE14.
🌊 The Political Tsunami: When the People’s Wave Rose
The term “political tsunami” was used to describe the extraordinary awakening of Malaysians who rejected the ruling party for the first time in the nation’s modern history.
The opposition coalition at the time, Pakatan Harapan (PH), which consisted of:
- Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR)
- Democratic Action Party (DAP)
- Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah)
- Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu)
was led by former Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who made a political comeback at the age of 92 and successfully channeled the people’s anger into a victory.
📊 GE14 Results: Interesting Facts
- Pakatan Harapan won 113 parliamentary seats (surpassing the simple majority of 112).
- BN only won 79 seats, far lower than in any previous general election.
- Tun Dr. Mahathir became the world’s oldest Prime Minister, reappointed at the age of 93.
- Key states like Selangor, Penang, Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, and Johor fell to PH.
- BN lost strongholds such as Johor Bahru, Ayer Hitam, and many Felda areas.
🔥 Key Factors in Pakatan Harapan’s Victory
- The 1MDB Scandal and Najib Razak The biggest financial scandal in the country’s history—where billions of ringgit were allegedly embezzled from 1MDB—became the main campaign issue. The people began to lose faith in the leadership of the then-Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
- The Return of Tun Mahathir As a figure who had led the country for 22 years (1981–2003), Dr. Mahathir’s return as an opposition leader surprised many. He successfully attracted rural Malay supporters who had previously been loyal to BN.
- Use of Social Media PH wisely used social media and digital platforms to disseminate information, counter propaganda, and unite the people’s voices—especially among the youth.
- Rejection of GST The Goods and Services Tax (GST), implemented in 2015, was considered a burden on the people. PH’s promise to abolish it garnered massive support from middle and lower-class voters.
🧠 What Made GE14 Different?
- The Ruling Party Was Overthrown Democratically This was the first time Malaysians successfully changed the government peacefully through the ballot box—proving that the country’s democratic system is still alive and functioning.
- The Opposition Coalition United for the First Time PH successfully formed a more organized and unified front, unlike in previous general elections.
- A Peaceful Transfer of Power Despite the tension, Malaysia witnessed a transfer of power without violence or a coup.
🌱 Long-Term Impact of GE14
🔄 Institutional Reforms The new government introduced several reforms, including:
- The establishment of the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission (IPCMC)
- The formation of Parliamentary Special Select Committees
- Increased transparency and the liberation of judicial institutions
🧭 Change in the People’s Political Perception The people are now more aware that they hold the ultimate power through their vote and are no longer afraid to demand change.
⚖️ Political Instability However, the failure to maintain unity within PH and internal power shifts (such as the Sheraton Move in 2020) led to disappointment and instability in the following years.
read more about the Sheraton Move here: https://www.dohistory.com.my/
✊ The Legacy of GE14: The Power of the People Cannot Be Underestimated
GE14 was a turning point. It proved that: The people are not just spectators, but determiners. After more than 60 years under one party, Malaysia opened a new chapter. Although the path after GE14 was not easy, that moment remains a symbol of the strength of democracy and the voice of the Malaysian people.
Conclusion
GE14 was more than just a change of government. It was a clear message that true power lies in the hands of the people, and when that awareness is combined with hope and action, great change can happen.
Whether you are a history student, a new voter, or simply a Malaysian who wants to understand your own country—GE14 is a story that must be known.
