Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia reinstates parliamentary service after three-decade absence
New legislation has restored parliamentary service as a distinct career path in Malaysia, ending a 34-year gap since the role was last formally established. The Parliamentary Services Act 2025 takes effect with accompanying constitutional amendments.
LSN Malaysia ·
PUTRAJAYA — Malaysia has formally reinstated parliamentary service as a dedicated profession following passage of the Parliamentary Services Act 2025 (Act 869) and related amendments to the Federal Constitution, marking a significant institutional development after more than three decades without such formal arrangements.
The legislation, which came into effect on October 1, establishes a structured framework for personnel supporting parliamentary operations. The move represents the first formal parliamentary service framework since Malaysia discontinued similar arrangements in the early 1990s, addressing longstanding gaps in administrative and technical support for legislative functions.
The new Act 869 creates a distinct career path for individuals dedicated to parliamentary support services, including roles in administration, research, and legislative secretariat functions. The accompanying constitutional amendments provide the legal foundation necessary to operationalize these arrangements across both houses of Parliament.
Parliamentary service restoration is expected to enhance institutional capacity within the legislature and professionalize the administrative infrastructure supporting parliamentary proceedings. Officials indicated the framework would facilitate better coordination and efficiency in legislative operations while providing career stability for parliamentary personnel.
The reinstatement aligns with broader institutional strengthening efforts in Malaysia's governance architecture, particularly as Parliament seeks to enhance its oversight and legislative functions. The new service structure will operate under defined terms and conditions established through the legislation and supporting regulations.