Democratic Process in Malaysia: the Future of Malaysian Electoral System

• Main Authors: Ayub, Zainal Amin, Mohamed Yusoff, Zuryati, Yeon, Asmah Laili
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Serials Publications 2017
• Subjects: K Law (General)
• Online Access: https://repo.uum.edu.my/id/eprint/31102/1/MI%2097%2024%202017%20323-336.pdf; https://repo.uum.edu.my/id/eprint/31102/; https://serialsjournals.com/

The Federation of Malaysia adopts the first-past-the-post (FPTP) electoral system in implementing the democracy in the Federation. The system has been emplaced since the independence of Malaysia in 1957. There is however, suggestion to change the current electoral system to proportional representation (PR) system. This paper aims to analyze the current and the suggested electoral system for Malaysia, the FPTP system or PR system from the legal perspective and the experience in other parts of the world. Research data were collected through library research and interviews with legal experts in Malaysia. The data were analyzed using content analysis by employing the thematic approach. The study found that the current legal structure support FPTP system and that major revamp of the law need to be done if Malaysia is to introduce new electoral system. It is also found that there are concerns from the legal fraternity whereby most of them agree that the FPTP system is still the best system for Malaysia. This is due to the advantages of FPTP system which suit the situation in Malaysia. However, most of the respondents also incline to the view that Malaysia should change to proportionate representative in the future; because of the advantages of PR electoral system, where, among others are, ‘every vote counts’ and it reduces the gerrymandering issue. It is also found that many countries tried to change its electoral system, but only New Zealand is the best model to look into. It is found that, if there is a change in the electoral system, there are implications to take into consideration. The paper suggests that any changes to the future electoral system in Malaysia require massive legislation amendment, as well as the readiness of the people should be taken into account