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Mizan Zainal Abidin- Current Yang di-Pertuan Agong |
Malaysia’s constitutional monarchy government includes a king (Yang di-Pertuan Agong), prime minister, a senate, House of Representatives, and three branches of government. The federal constitution divides the government into three branches; executive, legislative, and judicial. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is elected in 5 year terms, and will be elected after serving as a Sultan of a Malay state. In addition to leading Malaysia in practicing Islamic faith, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong has power over the executive branch. The legislative branch of government consists of the Senate with 70 seats, and the House of Representatives with 219 seats. Members of these are also elected in five year terms. The federal government of Malaysia (also known as Parliament) constructs laws that apply to all citizens of Malaysia.
Malaysia adapted its legal system from English common law, and many of the constitutional articles from Indian law. The Malaysian Constitution, established 1957 before Malaysia gained independence, gives basic rights to citizens, including freedoms of speech, religion, and property. Drafting a constitution was the first step Malaysia took towards freedom from Britain rule.
The current ruling party of Malaysia is a combination of 14 parties, and is called the National Front. Most of the parties that make up the National Front are centered around ethnicity and background.
