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The Islamic Factor
- ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute
- Chapter
- Additional Information
14 Raja Nazrin Shah The new federalism, again with laudable diplomacy, did not attempt to concentrate powers at the centre, but selectively devolved it to the states, guaranteeing them a degree of autonomy. One of the basic precepts embodied in the Constitution is the distribution of sovereign power between the thirteen states and the federal government. Within the spirit of the Constitution, the Sultan’s traditional role is now extended to a wider sphere. He participates in the governance of the country. The Agong has a formal and highly visible role which underlines his prestige, supports the dignity of the throne and, in some cases together with his brother Rulers, provides important checks and balances to the government of the day. The Agong formally appoints, but does not select, the Prime Minister.18 He reserves the right to dissolve Parliament.19 He may declare a “state of emergency”.20 Correspondingly , the Rulers at state level appoint the Chief Ministers and have the right to dissolve the State Legislative Assemblies.21 This then brings me to the factor of Islam in the equation. The Islamic Factor The Sultans are the custodians of Islam in 15 The Monarchy in Contemporary Malaysia Malaysia. They have wide powers and discretion over matters relating to the Muslim religion. These powers and discretion are guaranteed by the federal and state constitutions . The Sultans have a great deal of influence in the direction of religious matters. They appoint the state religious officials — the mufti, the judges, and the officers of the Syariah Courts; oversee the establishment, activities, and administration of mosques; and issue formal accreditation to religious teachers and missionaries.22 At federal and state levels, fatwa (religious edicts) need the consent of the Rulers.23 To help them discharge their duty as Head of Islam is the Islamic Religious Council, a body appointed by the Ruler to assist and advise him on all matters relating to Islam. Constitutional monarchy and democracy in our equation play a part in defining the exemplary status of Malaysia as a Muslim country, making us one of the most successful in terms of political stability and economic prosperity. Malaysia is today held up as an exemplar of the kind of modern, progressive, moderate, and enlightened Muslim country that we truly are. It has demonstrated that economic development, modernity, and [3.226.254.255] Project MUSE (2024-03-29 00:52 GMT) 16 Raja Nazrin Shah technology are not incompatible with Islam. Islam as practised in Malaysia is open to the advances of the Knowledge Age. Islamic banking and Takaful insurance24 are two examples of innovation in the areas of banking and finance, which have become models for other countries. Muslim Malaysia can thus become a voice in the global debate, helping to correct the current inter-religious misunderstandings that are dangerously dividing the world. This country has been conferred leadership of the Organization of Islamic Conference representing all 57 Islamic countries in the world. The more we can promote the fundamental ethics of peace and brotherhood according to the tenets of Islam, the more we uphold the principles of Islamic justice. If we are to be an influence in the universal Islamic debate beginning to engulf us, it will be by example, not just precept. The Challenges Ahead Let me now address some of the challenges, as I see them, facing the monarchy in the years ahead. The question is bound to be asked whether the Rulers are the exclusive preserve of just the one community, the Malays. Whilst ...