Malaysia’s main opposition calls for greater power for states, Nikkei Asia reports

Malaysia’s main opposition today called for greater power for states, according to Nikkei Asia. The move lands amid renewed debate over the federal-state balance under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government, with state leaders pressing for a bigger role in economic planning. Any shift on taxation, land, or public services could reshape investment decisions, permitting, and timelines for infrastructure and energy projects nationwide.

Nikkei Asia reports the opposition framed devolution as a route to stronger local accountability and faster development, though specific mechanisms, fiscal arrangements, and a timeline were not detailed. Autonomy questions are especially sensitive in resource rich East Malaysian states Sabah and Sarawak, where long standing accords and revenue-sharing formulas remain under negotiation. Watch for a government response, any parliamentary motions to test support, and signals in forthcoming budget planning and intergovernmental talks. [Developing. This article will be updated.]