Most people think that the main gains for the opposition in Sarawak came from the ethnic Chinese. But an analysis by political science professor Bridget Welsh shows a different picture.
As you can see, the biggest opposition gains in percentage share of voters came from the Orang Ulu, Malay and Bidayuh groups – higher than the Iban and Chinese gains. Continue reading »
Here is another proposal from blog reader Sean, which broadens the discussion and might be worth considering.
Your correspondent is still suggesting that PR beat BN at their own game: giving beads. Continue reading »
A Kuching-based political observer sent me this letter which I am sharing with you. See what you make of it.
What PR and PKR in particular failed to understand is how the BN has worked in rural areas (Malay, Melanau, Iban, Bidayuh and some Orang Ulu). These communities rely heavily on the BN for paltry sums of donations and grants. Come elections the penghulus (appointed by BN) may be told to ensure all the longhouses under their care vote for BN and prevent any opposition politicians from entering their longhouses. Continue reading »
Coming to you live from Kuching.
Sometimes it is the little tell-tale signs that say a lot. Like when the pau man in Penang innocently asked me just a few days before GE2008, “Why-ah everyone voting for opposition this time?” Continue reading »