In the wake of the 2008 general election, Barisan Nasional looked to be well and truly on the back foot, having been deprived of its two-thirds parliamentary majority for the first time in 40 years and having lost five states into the bargain.

I recall the shock and horror that various BN spokespersons expressed, and the urgent promises they made at the time that the coalition would reform itself and get closer to the people.