Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says the proposed 10-year term limit for PMs does not affect the King’s prerogative or parliamentary democracy.
KUALA LUMPUR: The proposed constitutional amendment to limit a Prime Minister’s tenure to 10 years does not affect the prerogative powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the amendment also does not alter the fundamentals of parliamentary democracy or diminish the Dewan Rakyat’s role in determining confidence in the government.
He presented the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 for its second reading in the Dewan Rakyat.
“Within the framework of the Federal Constitution, the appointment of the Prime Minister depends on the confidence of the majority in the Dewan Rakyat,” Anwar said.
He stated the amendment aims to complement the existing framework with an additional institutional check-and-balance mechanism.
Anwar said the bill is part of the MADANI Government’s efforts to strengthen institutions and uphold good governance.
It reflects a commitment promised to the people and implemented through constitutional processes, he added.
The Prime Minister said the proposal to limit the tenure is not a new concept in the country’s institutional reform discourse.
He said the government is translating this discourse into a clear pledge after examining international best practices.
“Limiting tenure is a governance mechanism recognised in modern democracies,” Anwar stated.
This mechanism helps ensure leadership transitions occur in an orderly and lawful manner, he explained.
Anwar said the limitation is not intended to weaken the executive institution but to strengthen legitimacy and public trust.
He described the amendment as an investment for future generations to ensure leadership is based on the people’s mandate.
Setting a term limit can also reduce the risk of prolonged concentration of power and potential abuse, he added.
Anwar said this approach aligns with religious principles requiring leadership within a framework of trust and justice.
The government conducted engagement sessions with various parties, including experts in constitutional law, while formulating the amendment.
This ensured the views of all segments of society were taken into account comprehensively, he noted.
“This is our effort to ensure that the country continues to be guided by the Constitution,” Anwar said.
He urged all Members of Parliament, regardless of political affiliation, to give their full support to the bill.