Malaysia's Path to Reform: Capping Terms and Combating Corruption

Malaysia plans to introduce significant reforms including a two-term limit for the Prime Minister and measures to prevent corruption. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim pledged these changes to improve governance and transparency, starting with bills addressing the attorney-general's role and introducing a freedom of information law.

Malaysia is on the brink of significant institutional reforms aimed at combating corruption and enhancing governance. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced plans for a two-term premiership cap and numerous other governance improvements during a recent speech.

Prime Minister Anwar detailed his administration's intentions to introduce a bill limiting the prime minister's tenure to ten years, fulfilling a vital 2022 election promise. Further reforms include separating the attorney-general's advisory and prosecutorial roles to prevent political interference.

To boost transparency, plans include an ombudsman law and a freedom of information law, providing formal avenues for public grievances and preventing government malpractice. Despite facing challenges, Anwar emphasized the government's commitment to addressing systemic corruption and governance issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)