Malaysian PM Dissolves Parliament

Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has dissolved parliament more than a year ahead of schedule, paving the way for the 12th Malaysian general election.

An election next month would also rule out opposition figure Anwar Ibrahim, barred by a conviction from standing for office until April.

The election commission is expected to meet soon to set a poll date.

A recent opinion poll also suggested that Mr Badawi's personal popularity had tumbled by 30%.

However, the National Front coalition government led by the Malay party UMNO are virtually assured of another a healthy victory.

They have won all previous 11 general elections.

®srikandeh