Hadi Awang

This chapter analyses the strategic populist tactics utilised by Hadi Awang, which encompassed a blend of anti-elite populism targeting corruption, and Islamist populism that ultimately marginalised ethnic minorities in Malaysia. Furthermore, it examines Hadi’s viewpoint regarding the Malays and individuals from diverse cultures in order to comprehend his populist strategy. Hadi’s willingness to seek partnerships with various political coalitions is part of his political manoeuvring to achieve electoral successes. Regrettably, the utilisation of Islamist and ethnonationalist populist languages has resulted in the escalation of polarisation in Malaysia. The chapter concludes that Hadi has effectively exploited his religious background to sway the wishes and desires of the Malay-Muslim majority, who fear the supposed degradation of Islam within this Muslim-majority nation, and views him as a defender and protector of Muslim right.