Mohamad Shukri, Syaza Farhana and Batool, Fizza and Yilmaz, Ihsan (2026) Instrumentalisation of religion in electoral politics: how leaders leverage faith in Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey. Palgrave Macmillan, Singapore. ISBN 978-981-95-2847-9
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Abstract
This book examines the critical intersection of religion, democracy, and political leadership in three prominent Muslim-majority states—Malaysia, Pakistan, and Turkey. It offers a comparative analysis of the political careers and strategies of Mahathir Mohamad, Nawaz Sharif, and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, exploring how these leaders have strategically instrumentalised religion to shape their political narratives, mobilise public support, and consolidate power. By examining the adaptive use of religion as a tool for governance, the book sheds light on the broader dynamics of religious politics in contemporary democracies. Using qualitative research methods, the book investigates the political rhetoric, policy decisions, and symbolic actions of these leaders, analysing how they navigate the tensions between Islamic principles and democratic institutions. Drawing on extensive historical and contextual data, it categorises religious instrumentalisation into three fluid strategies: conservatism, nationalism, and populism. This innovative framework offers readers a fresh perspective on how religion functions as a versatile political tool, making it highly relevant to scholars and practitioners in political science, sociology, and religious studies.
| Item Type: | Book |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | 8365/126832 |
| Subjects: | J Political Science > JC Political theory > JC49 Islam and Politics J Political Science > JQ Political institutions Asia |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Political Science |
| Depositing User: | Dr. Syaza Farhana Mohamad Shukri |
| Date Deposited: | 19 Jan 2026 10:28 |
| Last Modified: | 20 Jan 2026 14:17 |
| Queue Number: | 2026-01-Q1637 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/126832 |
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