The Conference of Rulers (Majlis Raja-Raja) is a unique institution that gives Malaysia's rulers a formal collective voice. Its roots lie in the colonial era, and it is now recognised in the Federal Constitution.
Historical origins
The idea began with the Durbar, a gathering of Malay rulers first held in 1897 at Kuala Kangsar under the Federated Malay States. These meetings allowed the rulers to discuss common matters with the British. After independence, this tradition was formalised into the Conference of Rulers under the 1957 Constitution.
Membership and structure
Today the Conference is made up of the nine Malay rulers of the states with a monarchy, together with the four Yang di-Pertua Negeri (governors) of the states without a ruler — Penang, Malacca, Sabah and Sarawak. It is served by the Keeper of the Rulers' Seal.
Key idea
Durbar (1897) → Conference of Rulers under the 1957 Constitution: 9 rulers + 4 governors, meeting to protect Malay rulers' privileges, Islam and key national interests.
Functions
- Elects the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong from among the nine rulers.
- Safeguards the special position of the Malays and the natives of Sabah and Sarawak, and matters concerning Islam and the Malay rulers.
- Must be consulted before certain laws and constitutional amendments are made, and on senior appointments.
- May discuss questions of national policy and administration.
Remember
- The Durbar of 1897 was the forerunner of the Conference of Rulers.
- Members: 9 Malay rulers + 4 Yang di-Pertua Negeri.
- It elects the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and his Deputy.
- It safeguards Malay privileges, Islam and the rulers' position.