Kuala lumpur: Nobody is indispensable, and that principle underpins the government's move to introduce a bill to limit the Prime Minister's tenure to two full terms, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. She emphasized that with Malaysia's population exceeding 34 million, the nation has many capable leaders and must prevent power from being concentrated in one individual for too long.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina highlighted at a town hall session that the proposed bill is not intended to restrict any individual, but rather to strengthen governance and prevent abuse of power. She stated, "It's not about limiting a person. It's about not allowing someone to abuse power, about preventing the mindset of being 'untouchable' and can carry on ruling forever and ever. That's the message."

Azalina further explained that even after stepping down, former leaders can continue contributing to the nation in other capacities, such as senior ministers or advisers, emphasizing that leadership should function collectively. She noted the importance of institutional safeguards given the powerful nature of the Prime Minister's position under the Federal Constitution.

During a press conference, Azalina confirmed that the bill will involve a constitutional amendment, which she plans to table during the current Parliament sitting. However, lawmakers must first agree on key aspects, including the precise definition of the term limit and whether it should be set at two terms or capped at 10 years.

She mentioned that the Cabinet will discuss matters related to the proposed bill, including enforcement issues such as whether the limit would apply retrospectively or prospectively and whether it would cover only consecutive terms or also non-consecutive terms served at different periods. She concluded, "I will present the policy decision. If approved by the Cabinet and formulated as a constitutional amendment, I will table it to all Members of Parliament by bloc. Of course, we will discuss thoroughly the issues raised."