The Federal Constitution is the supreme law of Malaysia. Any law passed by Parliament or a state assembly that contradicts it is void. It defines how the country is governed and protects the rights of its citizens.
The framework of government
- Constitutional monarchy: the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is the head of state but rules within limits set by the constitution and on the advice of the Cabinet.
- Federal system: power is divided between the federal government and the state governments, each with its own areas of responsibility.
- Parliamentary democracy: the people elect representatives to Parliament, and the government is accountable to them.
Rights and identity
The constitution guarantees fundamental liberties such as freedom of speech, religion and assembly, subject to limits set by law. It sets out the rules for citizenship, declares Islam the religion of the Federation while allowing other faiths, and makes Malay the national language. Article 153 safeguards the special position of the Malays and the natives of Sabah and Sarawak, while protecting the legitimate interests of other communities — a key part of the social contract.
Key idea
Supreme law + constitutional monarchy + federal system + parliamentary democracy + fundamental liberties = the pillars of the Federal Constitution.
Amendment
The constitution can be amended, but most changes require a two-thirds majority in Parliament, and some require the consent of the Conference of Rulers. This makes it both stable and adaptable.
Remember
- Supreme law — overrides any conflicting law.
- Constitutional monarchy, federal system, parliamentary democracy.
- Islam is the religion of the Federation; Malay is the national language.
- Article 153 protects the special position of the Malays and natives of Sabah and Sarawak.