Article Abstract:
Peninsula Malaysia and the eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo have achieved a high degree of unity since joining together to form Malaysia in 1963, but some issues occasionally cause friction. Many believe that union with the wealthier peninsular state has brought stability and prosperity to the eastern states, and the sense of national identity is well developed. However, the persistence of autonomous rights won by the states in 1963 occasionally causes problems, as in the 1997 calls for Sabah and Sarawak to abolish their visa controls for Peninsular Malaysians.
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Article Abstract:
Malaysian prime minister Datuk Seri Mahathir Mohamad's National Front seems set to win easily in an Apr 25 general election, but several key races remain in doubt. The coalition is going all-out to ensure a sweeping victory that will increase its margin of control, denying opponents every venue to reach voters. Nonetheless, the opposition is likely to strengthen its grip on Kelantan and make inroads in Penang, Sabah, and Teranganu. Many observers consider the election merely a precursor to Umno party elections next year.
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Anwar Ibrahim, deputy leader of the ruling United Malays National Organization and deputy prime minister, has for some time been widely believed to be in a powerful position, thus making him a natural successor to prime minister Mahathir Mohamad. However, there are now signs that he is not as powerful as had been thought. He is still favourite to succeed Mahathir, but there are now other candidates too. These include Tunku Razaleigh Hamzah, who lost to Mahathir in 1987 and went into opposition.
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