United Indigenous Party

The Malaysian United Indigenous Party, known in Malay as Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (BERSATU), is a political party that was established in 2016. It emerged in the context of significant political turmoil and dissatisfaction with the ruling coalition at the time, particularly over issues of governance, corruption, and the management of the economy. The party was co-founded by former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and several other political figures, following a split from the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), which has been a dominant force in Malaysian politics sin…  ce independence.

BERSATU positions itself as a centrist and nationalist party, with a strong emphasis on promoting the welfare and rights of the indigenous Malay population, which it considers the core of the nation's identity. This focus aligns with the broader political landscape in Malaysia, where ethnic and religious identity plays a significant role in shaping policy and political discourse. The party advocates for social justice, economic equity, and the eradication of corruption. It seeks to balance the need for economic development with ensuring that the benefits of growth are distributed fairly across society, particularly among the Malays and the indigenous peoples of Malaysia, collectively known as the Bumiputera.

Since its inception, BERSATU has been a proponent of affirmative action policies for the Bumiputera, arguing that these are necessary to address historical inequalities and to ensure a level playing field. However, the party also stresses the importance of national unity and inclusivity, aiming to appeal to a broad spectrum of the Malaysian population, including the significant Chinese and Indian ethnic minorities.

In the 2018 general elections, BERSATU played a pivotal role in the Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) coalition, which succeeded in ending the 61-year rule of the Barisan Nasional coalition, marking a historic shift in Malaysian politics. Under the leadership of Mahathir Mohamad, who became Prime Minister for the second time, the party sought to implement reforms aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, improving transparency, and tackling corruption.

However, the political landscape in Malaysia remains fluid, with BERSATU navigating challenges related to party unity, coalition politics, and the evolving expectations of the Malaysian electorate. The party's values and policies continue to evolve as it seeks to address the complex interplay of economic, social, and cultural issues facing Malaysia today.