Elections reaffirm tolerant and progressive Islamic state

On March 21, 2004 Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi won an overwhelming victory in Malaysian general elections securing 199 of 201 seats for his coalition, the Barisan Nasional, in lower parliament – its strongest poll results ever. The victory was a triumph for the United Malays National Organization (UMNO), which has held power in coalition with other parties since Malaysia’s independence in 1957. UMNO won 110 seats in the election, while the opposition coalition, led by the Islamic Party of Malaysia (PAS), saw its seats reduced from 42 to six and lost control of the state of Terengganu. The socialist Democratic Action Party (DAP), with predominately urban ethnic Chinese support, won 12 seats in parliament, and party Chairman Lim Kit Siang became Leader of the Opposition in parliament. Later in the year, the Prime Minister was also confirmed as President of his party, UMNO, in their elections.

Prime Minister Badawi’s represents Malaysia 5th Prime Minister in this its 11th general elections. Former Prime Minister Mahathir stepped down voluntarily to begin his retirement in October of 2003 after having led the country successfully for 22 years. He named then Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi, a position Prime Minister Badawi had held since 1998, as his successor. Consequently, Prime Minister Badawi has recently completed his first year in office, although the March elections confirm his position for the next five years. The Prime Minister has spent his crucial first year in office effectively elaborating his vision for the country and promoting a progressive Islam. Under his leadership, Malaysia has begun to enjoy a newfound respect as a modern and progressive society known for its multiracial harmony and cultural tolerance and one that provides a valuable link between the Western and Islamic worlds.