The development of political patronage behinds the social-welfare state policy

This article points out the fundamental of the political patronage in the context of Malaysian Studies. Through the analysis of a case study in the state of Sabah, it is firstly shown how formal state institutions change into an ‘informal’ logic of competing political camps. The development of political patronage has advanced the social-welfare state policy and programs, specifically in eradicating poverty. As the system has a profound impact on how the government programs are delivered, it largely reflects the performance of the government. Although the government intent helping the poorest, however, the public expects the state to serve only their political camp’ or network, not everyone else.