The Malaysian cabinet has approved a proposal to limit the prime minister’s tenure to 10 years as part of institutional reforms, requiring constitutional amendments.
PUTRAJAYA: The cabinet has approved a policy proposal to limit the prime minister’s term of office to 10 years.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said this is a key step to strengthen accountability, checks and balances, and constitutional governance.
“The proposal to limit the term of office aims to prevent the excessive concentration of power,” she said in a statement.
She added it would strengthen the democratic system and enhance public confidence in leadership institutions.
The decision follows a comprehensive review of policy inputs, public feedback, and stakeholder recommendations.
Azalina stated the move is part of the MADANI Government’s institutional reform agenda.
It will require several related amendments to the Federal Constitution to be tabled in the current Parliament sitting.
On Jan 5, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said a bill for the limit was among four key new laws to be tabled this year.
The proposed law would cap the tenure at no more than 10 years or two full terms.
In March last year, Anwar directed that the proposal be studied carefully and in depth.

