Democracy in Malaysia

Malaysia is a peaceful country which are located near in between of Singapore and Thailand. it consist of thirteen states and three federal territories, the capital cities of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur while Putrajaya is the site of Malaysian administration. 

        

the heart of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur

This country is multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country. The constitution declares Islam as official religion while protecting the freedom of religion. Malaysia practices Democracy in order to choose the leader which is our main focus now.

Democracy is a system which the supreme power is chosen by election. The government is for only after an election process, which the people choose their representatives who will become members of parliament. Malaysia has been adopting democracy system since independence even though the people of the country have had experience in election since 1952.

Benefits of Parliamentary Democracy in Malaysia

1) The Government has also launched the New Economy Policy (NEP)
2) The Government has also encouraged economics activities which will produce more jobs and improve skills.
3)The Government  has also encouraged the involvement of the private sector to accelerate the economic development of the country.
4) Education is a great concern for the Government
5) Facilities provided by the Government are used to fulfill the hopes and aspirations.

Elections

Election is a process of expressing one's political choice through ballot box. It is used to choose leaders and to settle various issues. through elections, voters can choose candidates or representatives who will help them to solve issues within the community. It can be held within any organizations, private or public companies, or trade unions to choose representatives, or to solve particular problem about the corporate policies or government institutions.

The Ballot Box

Function of Elections

1) To form a Democratic government
2) To ensure continuity of national leadership
3) Choose candidates for top government positions
4) Stabilize and legitimatize an organization or political community.

3 Types of Elections

1) Primary Election
2) Run Off Election
3) Local Election


Qualification of Voters

Eligible Candidate

1. Malaysian Citizen who lives in Malaysia
2. Older than 21 years old on the day the candidates are named
3. Lives in whichever state she/he wishes to contest

Uneligible Candidates 

1. Insane
2. Declared as bankrupt
3. holds any office of profit
4. fails to submit report of election expenses
5. has been found guilty by a court in Malaysia and sentenced to be imprisont for a term of not less than one year or fined RM 2,000 and has not been pardoned
6. Obtained foreign citizenship

Elections for the House Representatives and State Assembly are held once every five years, unless they have been disbanded earlier. The general elections are held 60 days after the date of dissolution.

Smaller election are also held 60 days after a seat has been vacated, either due to death, resignations, or disqualification of the candidates. 

For more information of Elections in Malaysia click here.

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Practicing parliamentary democracy is beneficial to the people of this country. Since its inception, it has managed to create political stability, peace and prosperity. Through a parliamentary democracy, the existence of constitutional monarchy maintains the ruling traditions of the country. The people government is chosen by the people and must win the heart of the people, not be biased against minority group as this would cause the government to lose support in the future.