Islamist Civilizationism in Malaysia

Malaysia is known to have a diverse population across the racial and religious spectrums. However, majority of identifies as Malays, and, thus, legally, Muslims too. Although development Malay identity had begun immediately after World War II, stark division between non-Muslims came out 1971 New Economic Policy that prioritized in name reducing poverty stabilizing country. With Malay-nationalist party United National Organization (UMNO) being power for six decades, position Malays became undisputed. At same time, international domestic such Islamic revival 1970s, Global on Terror splitting votes 2000s further pushed UMNO later, Islamist PAS redefine part larger Muslim ummah under framework ‘civilizational populism’. By conflating ethnicity religion, nationalist parties together with their leaders used populist discourses ensure people’s continued support, even at expense non-Muslim Malaysian citizens. Using process tracing, this article shows civilizationism effective unite divided country when policies place failed engender unity. As result, Malay-Muslims sought community beyond its borders, rise politics around world, it has become much easier highlight plight over own co-nationalists benefit politics.