Malaysia won't redraw electoral boundaries despite eight-year rule, minister says

Malaysia's electoral map will not be redrawn for now, despite the legal provision allowing it every eight years. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced that the Cabinet has opted against this process to ensure no significant voter gaps emerge between constituencies. This decision comes amid political maneuvering ahead of state elections.

Fahmi, who is also the communications director for the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition, criticized the opposition, specifically Pas Secretary-General Takiyuddin Hassan. Takiyuddin had alleged that a PH victory in the Negeri Sembilan state election could lead to the redrawing of electoral boundaries, potentially splitting large constituencies currently represented by PH into new areas. Fahmi dismissed these claims as fear-mongering tactics lacking factual basis.

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The process (of redrawing boundaries) has not started. Previously, after eight years, the redrawing process could be done. However, the attitude of the Prime Minister and the leadership in the Cabinet is focused on ensuring that there are no large gaps between constituencies within a state.

"The process (of redrawing boundaries) has not started. Previously, after eight years, the redrawing process could be done. However, the attitude of the Prime Minister and the leadership in the Cabinet is focused on ensuring that there are no large gaps between constituencies within a state," Fahmi said. He asserted that the rights of Malays and Muslims are consistently protected through provisions and the construction of new mosques in the state.

Fahmi highlighted the current administration's achievements, including the highest number of new mosques built and record high zakat collections under the Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar, along with increased allowances for imams. He accused the opposition of employing an unhealthy campaign strategy by trying to scare voters, rather than competing on the government's performance.

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This is an unhealthy campaign, trying to scare people because they have no factual basis to compete with the achievements and performance of Tok Min, which is recognized by the residents.