Anwar close to becoming Malaysia’s next PM

Kuala Lumpur, The Gulf Observer: Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim edged closer to becoming Malaysia’s new PM after a political party agreed Thursday to support a unity government following inconclusive general elections.

Any agreement must still be approved by Malaysia’s king. Last Saturday’s divisive election led to a hung parliament that renewed a leadership crisis in Malaysia, which had three prime ministers since 2018.

Police have tightened security nationwide as social media warned of racial troubles if Anwar’s multiethnic bloc wins.Anwar’s Pakatan Harapan, or Alliance of Hope, topped the race with 82 parliamentary seats, short of the 112 needed for a majority.

Former Prime Minister Muhyiddin’s Malay-centric Perikatan Nasional, or National Alliance, won 73 seats. The alliance led by the United Malays National Organization, which has 30 seats, hold the key that will tilt the balance.