The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is the supreme head of state of Malaysia and a symbol of national unity. His position, powers and duties are set out in the Federal Constitution.
Election and term
The Agong is elected by the Conference of Rulers from among the nine Malay rulers, and holds office for a five-year term. In practice the rulers take turns according to an established rotation, making Malaysia's monarchy unusual: the head of state changes every five years rather than remaining for life. A Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong is also elected.
Powers and duties
- Appoints the Prime Minister — the member of the Dewan Rakyat likely to command majority support.
- Summons, prorogues and dissolves Parliament.
- Is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
- Is the head of the religion of Islam in his own states, the Federal Territories, and the states without a ruler.
- May grant pardons for certain offences.
Key idea
The Agong reigns but does not rule alone: he is a constitutional monarch who almost always acts on the advice of the Cabinet or the responsible minister.
Acting on advice
As a constitutional monarch, the Agong exercises most powers on the advice of the Cabinet or the Prime Minister. A few powers may be used at his own discretion, such as appointing a Prime Minister and deciding whether to grant a request to dissolve Parliament. The rulers of the states hold similar constitutional roles within their own states, acting on the advice of their state governments.
Remember
- The Agong is elected by the Conference of Rulers for a five-year term.
- He is chosen from the nine Malay rulers, by rotation.
- He appoints the PM, summons and dissolves Parliament, and heads the Armed Forces.
- He generally acts on the advice of the Cabinet.