A move to strengthen itself as the Opposition, political analysts say that the formation of “State Government 4” (SG4), which comprises the four Perikatan Nasional states, is aimed at showing unity in the face of the unity government at the federal level, according to political analysts. While it is not expected to have a significant impact on toppling the unity government, it is seen as a significant demonstration of the strength of the Opposition. Universiti Sains Malaysia political scientist Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian states, “It is how they want to show the Federal Government that they are united to face the federal leadership.”
Terengganu Mentri Besar Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, who serves as the SG4 spokesperson, announced last Thursday that Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu would come together as SG4. The former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has been named as SG4’s “unofficial adviser.” Expert analysis suggests that Perikatan may seek assistance from Dr Mahathir, given his experience in leading the country twice. However, the appointment is not expected to significantly impact the relationship between the Federal Government and states unless Dr Mahathir’s role is seen as more influential than the mentris besar of those states.
The formation of SG4 is viewed as a means of showing that the states are not subservient to the Federal Government and can assert their independence on certain aspects with Dr Mahathir’s guidance. It is also seen as a political move to challenge the leadership of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Nonetheless, experts believe that SG4 will not pose a threat to the Federal Government as these opposition states rely on federal funds and are not as developed as Selangor. The appointment of Dr Mahathir is seen as a nod to his expertise and experience.
By appointing Dr Mahathir, Perikatan is attempting to display its authority and strengthen its political standing in its stronghold states. However, this move may potentially widen the gap between the federal and Perikatan state governments. As for economic development, it remains uncertain unless Dr Mahathir can attract investors from Japan to the four states, according to Assoc Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi from the Universiti Malaya Academy of Malay Studies.
Academy of Sciences Malaysia fellow Datuk Dr Madeline Berma notes that it is not uncommon for state governments to attract investors for economic development. Therefore, SG4 could focus on attracting investors to boost their state economies with Dr Mahathir’s assistance. While the responsibility for foreign direct investments primarily lies with the Federal Government, state governments are not prohibited from pursuing it, as exemplified by Sarawak’s approach.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
