Limiting PM’s tenure to two terms: A crucial reform for Malaysia’s future

THE proposal to limit the tenure of the Prime Minister to two terms is a significant reform that promises long-term benefits for both the people and the country.

Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Azmi Nik Ahmad, in an Instagram post today, said the measure ensures a regular leadership transition, bringing in fresh perspectives while preventing the concentration of excessive power in the hands of any individual.

This proposal directly impacts the Prime Minister of Malaysia, a position that has historically been held by leaders from UMNO, PPBM, and, more recently, PKR.

Given the ongoing political landscape, it is perplexing why PAS, a key political player, would seek to undermine such a reform.

“Any party claiming to advocate for the welfare of the people should, without hesitation, support institutional reforms that promote transparency and democracy, Nik Nazmi said.

Nik Nazmi, who is also PKR vice-president and Setiawangsa division chief said: “It is essential to note that this is not a new proposition. The Barisan Alternatif manifesto of 1998 already called for the need to limit the Prime Minister's term to two terms.”

This highlights that the proposal is not merely a political move in response to current circumstances but is deeply rooted in the ongoing struggle for reform, aiming to establish a more democratic and accountable governance system.

“Why, then, has PAS, which was once part of Barisan Alternatif, shifted its stance and is now opposing this proposal? This sudden change raises questions about PAS’s commitment to reform and progress,” he asked.

In an unexpected turn, PAS has recently raised the issue of the Prime Minister needing to be a Muslim. Why bring up this topic now, when Malaysia already has an institution—the Yang di-Pertuan Agong—that guarantees the position of Islam in the country?

The question of whether the Prime Minister must be Muslim is irrelevant to the discussion on term limits, and it seems more like an attempt by PAS to divert attention from the important reform at hand, he said.

Since the nation’s independence, Malaysia has consistently had Prime Ministers who are Malay leaders. Thus, the argument being raised is not only irrelevant to the current debate but also undermines the progress towards a more transparent and accountable government. PAS's attempt to distract from the conversation on limiting the Prime Minister's term suggests a reluctance to engage in meaningful reforms.

As is often the case, PAS appears uninterested in pushing for reforms or improvements to beneficial institutions for the public. Instead, it seems more inclined to politicise every issue, inflaming racial and religious sentiments for political gain, rather than engaging in constructive dialogue and reform that could benefit the people of Malaysia. – March 19, 2025