Malaysia
has a complex federal system, with extensive local power held by
9 hereditary sultans who elect the head of state (entitled
HM the Yang di-Pertuan Agong) every 5 years. Malaysia is made up
of 13 states plus 2 ‘Federal Territories’ which
are Kuala Lumpur and Labuane Island.
Legislative power is held by the bicameral parliament. The parliament
consists of the Dewan Rakyat, House of Representatives with
192 members that are directly elected for a 5-year term, and the
70-strong Dewan Negara (Senate), of which 40 members are
appointed by the Head of State and the 30 remaining members are
elected by the country’s 13 regional assemblies.
Executive power is held by the Prime Minister who is officially
appointed by the head of state, usually the leader of the largest
party in the Dewan Rakpat. The Prime Minister governs with
the appointed ministerial cabinet. |
