The NGO-Government Relations in Malaysia: Historical Context and Contemporary Discourse

This article seeks to explain the linkage between the non-governmental organization (NGO) and the government within the context of Malaysia’s historical and contemporary political development. The 12th General Election in 2008 has brought about many changes in Malaysia; one of the most significant developments is the tremendous growth of the civil society groups in the form of NGOs. It shows further steps in the democratization in the country.NGOs are recognized as one of the key players in influencing the policy-making of the government. However, they are most often seen as opposing the country’s national interest or perceived as a threat. The relationship between the NGO and the government in Malaysia constitutes of dubiousness and challenges in the public policy discourse. This article attempts to examine some key concerns about the historical development of the NGO-government relations in the country.