​5 Things About the Prime Minister

5 Things About the Prime Minister

Who is he?

The Prime Minister is the Head of Government and he is known as the leader of the country. He governs the country with rest of the executive branch according to the laws made by Parliament. He has his own team called cabinet who are made up of ministers and deputy ministers. Although constitution makes no provision for Deputy Prime Minister, Malaysia always had a Deputy Prime Minister who is the right hand man for the Prime Minister.

How he is chosen?

The Prime Minister is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (YDA). In appointing the Prime Minister, the YDA acts in his discretion. However, he may only appoint a member of Dewan Rakyat as Prime Minister, who in his judgement, is likely to command the confidence of the majority of the members of the Dewan Rakyat.

What he advises YDA on?

He advises the YDA on the appointment of 44 out of 70 Senators and also the appointment of judges of the superior courts. Besides that, the Attorney General and the Auditor General are appointed based on his advice. Appointments for the Governors of Malacca, Penang, Sabah and Sarawak are also done based on Prime Minister’s advice.

What is his role in the cabinet?

The Prime Minister heads the cabinet.The cabinet consists of all ministers and these ministers run and control the functions of the various ministries that govern the country. Ministers are appointed by YDA upon the advice of the Prime Minister while members of the cabinet must also be members of Parliament.

How do you remove him?

Prime Minister requires the confidence of the majority of the members of Parliament to stay in office. He would have to tender his resignation of the whole cabinet to the YDA if he ceases to command the confidence of the majority of the members of the Dewan Rakyat. Then the YDA will appoint a new Prime Minister. Otherwise, he may advise the YDA to dissolve the Parliament so that a general election can be called.