Conclusion

The analysis of populism as it has manifested itself among several Malaysian Malay politicians comes to an end in this chapter. This concluding chapter focuses on the argument that Malay leaders have an incentive to employ ethnonationalist populism to get the support of the Malay populace who continue to turn to an elite to protect and defend Malay rights. This argument is based on literature on elite populism, feudal mentality, and relevant case studies. With the political system in Malaysia becoming more open to leaders of different political leanings, populists now need to establish themselves as defenders of the Malays from encroachments by the “others”. Malay leaders have the option to adopt economic populism, which typically involves policies aimed at benefiting the Malay population as well. The chapter finishes by proposing a future recommendation to cultivate Malay leaders who possess the necessary political determination to emancipate the Malay community from their dependence on the ruling class.