Chapter 7

The Head of State

Meet the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Malaysia's highest leader and Head of State.

Who is the Head of State?

Malaysia's Head of State is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. He holds the highest position in the country and is greatly respected by all the people.

How he is chosen

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is chosen from among the nine Malay Rulers (the Sultans and Rulers of the Malay states). He is elected by the Conference of Rulers (Majlis Raja-Raja) and rules for a term of five years.

Key idea

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is a constitutional monarch. This means he leads the country but follows the Federal Constitution and acts on the advice of the government.

The first Agong

The first Yang di-Pertuan Agong was Tuanku Abdul Rahman of Negeri Sembilan, who began his duties in 1957. The Agong helps keep the country united and protects the traditions of the nation.

Remember

  • The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is Malaysia's Head of State.
  • He is chosen from the nine Malay Rulers.
  • He serves a term of five years.

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