Najib's ruling Barisan Nasional coalition is expected to triumph due to what critics claim is manipulation of the electoral system. In a tweet as polls opened, Najib urged voters to "make the best choice for the future of this country". Mahathir has said Najib has "destroyed" the country and the economy has been ruined. He has also labelled Mahathir a "dictator", and the former leader was considered authoritarian during his time in office. During his rule, Mahathir's political opponents were thrown in jail and he was accused of undermining the country's democratic institutions.

Source: Bangkok Post May 09, 2018 00:22 UTC