KUALA LUMPUR, February 21 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for the swift tabling and passage of a constitutional amendment to cap Malaysia’s prime minister to a maximum of 10 years or two terms.
Describing it as a vital reform to strengthen democratic governance and prevent the concentration of power. He stressed that the proposed limit must apply to him first, saying any leader who sincerely wishes to serve the country would find a decade sufficient to implement reforms before stepping aside.
The amendment, which requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament, would impose a cumulative lifetime cap regardless of whether the terms are served consecutively. Malaysia currently has no formal term limit.
A system that previously allowed Mahathir Mohamad to serve more than 22 years across two premierships. The Prime Minister’s Office Term Limit Bill will be tabled for first reading on February 23, with its second reading set for March 3.
Alongside a separate Bill to formally separate the roles of Attorney General and Public Prosecutor. Law and Institutional Reform Minister Azalina Othman Said said both Bills have received Cabinet approval and are aimed at enhancing institutional independence, transparency and accountability.
Expressing hope that bipartisan support will ensure the reforms’ long-term legitimacy.
