National Front

The Malaysian National Front, known in Malay as Barisan Nasional (BN), is a major political coalition in Malaysia, established in 1973 as the successor to the Alliance Party (Perikatan). It was formed to promote national unity among the country's diverse ethnic groups, including the majority Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various indigenous peoples. The coalition was initially created to ensure political stability and to foster economic development in the wake of racial tensions, notably the 1969 race riots.

The values and policies of the Malaysian National Front have traditionall…  y centered around promoting national unity, social harmony, and inclusive economic development. BN has advocated for a political and social framework that emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between the interests of the different ethnic and religious groups in Malaysia. This approach is rooted in the concept of "Ketuanan Melayu" or Malay dominance, which asserts the special position of Malays and the indigenous peoples of Malaysia (collectively known as Bumiputera) in the constitution, while also safeguarding the rights and freedoms of minority groups.

Economically, the coalition has pursued policies aimed at modernizing and diversifying Malaysia's economy, with a focus on rural development, industrial growth, and attracting foreign investment. Education, healthcare, and infrastructure development have also been key areas of focus, aimed at improving the quality of life for all Malaysians.

Politically, the Malaysian National Front has been characterized by its consensus-based approach, where decisions are made through negotiation and agreement among its member parties. This approach has been crucial in maintaining political stability and managing ethnic tensions in the country.

However, the coalition's long tenure in power, which lasted until 2018, was also marked by criticisms of governance issues, including allegations of corruption and an erosion of democratic freedoms. The 2018 general election saw BN losing power for the first time in Malaysia's history, reflecting growing public demand for political reform and greater accountability.

Despite these challenges, the Malaysian National Front remains a significant force in Malaysian politics, advocating for unity, social harmony, and economic development, while also navigating the complexities of Malaysia's multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.