Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his support for a proposal to limit the tenure of the Prime Minister to a maximum of 10 years, aligning with calls from various political groups, including the Democratic Action Party (DAP). This proposal, which would reduce the current potential for a Prime Minister to serve up to 22 years, was shared during his speech at the DAP’s national congress on March 16, 2025.
Anwar underscored that the initiative requires bipartisan support to be successful, stressing the importance of securing a two-thirds majority in Parliament to amend the Constitution. While he strongly agreed with the idea of limiting the Prime Minister’s tenure, he noted that further discussions were still needed to build consensus and ensure broad political backing.
“There is a proposal and I agree with it, to limit the Prime Minister’s tenure to 10 years. As we know, it can currently extend up to 22 years. I agree with the limitation,” Anwar said during the congress. He also reassured the audience, saying, “Do not worry, there is no chance I will want to continue after 10 years. Even after just two years, I am already exhausted.”
The Prime Minister further highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach to achieve the necessary support from all parties involved. Anwar emphasized that the proposal would need careful negotiation to gain consensus, stressing the need for clear communication and mutual understanding. “We must build this through discussions and agreement. We need to explain, and we need to listen,” he said.
Anwar also remarked that once there is readiness and the necessary support, the proposal could be brought forward for a vote in the next parliamentary session. However, he cautioned against rushing the motion without sufficient backing, especially given the changing stances of opposition parties. “Do not bring forth a motion unless the numbers are secured because we cannot trust what the opposition claims. Their stance on such matters can change over time,” he stated.
In addition to his support for the tenure limitation proposal, Anwar also addressed some of the political rhetoric being used by certain opposition groups. He condemned the use of racial sentiments to create unease among the public, labeling such tactics as outdated and desperate. “For nearly 15 years, PAS was allied with DAP. Even during Pakatan Harapan’s federal administration under Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, they sat at the same table with DAP leaders. So, are their current claims true? These are merely the words of desperate individuals,” Anwar remarked.
The DAP’s proposal to limit the Prime Minister’s tenure is part of a broader push for constitutional reforms, with DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke suggesting that the proposed amendments could be implemented within the next two years. Loke also emphasized that the move was not meant to end Anwar’s leadership but to solidify his legacy as a reformist.
With Anwar’s endorsement, the proposal has gained momentum, but its success will depend on careful political maneuvering to ensure a two-thirds majority in Parliament. If achieved, the change could set a significant precedent in Malaysian politics, curbing the long tenure of future Prime Ministers and ensuring a more dynamic political leadership.
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