Islam and the Constitution
The Federal Constitution is the highest law of Malaysia. Article 3 states that Islam is the religion of the Federation (Persekutuan), which means the whole country of Malaysia.
What this means
- Islam is the official religion of the country.
- Other religions may still be practised in peace and harmony.
- The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is head of Islam in the Federal Territories and in states without a Ruler.
- In a state with a Sultan, the Sultan (Malay Ruler) is the head of Islam there.
Key idea
Article 3 makes Islam the religion of the Federation, while the Constitution still guarantees freedom of religion for everyone.
Remember
- Article 3 = Islam is the religion of the Federation.
- The Constitution is the highest law of Malaysia.
- The Constitution came into force when Malaya became independent in 1957.