1. Can the Federal Constitution be
amended? Discuss
Ahmad Naszuan Bin Mohd Nasib
Faculty of Law
Multimedia University, Melaka

2. What is FC?
• Article 4(1) of FC:
- Supreme law of the country
- Any law which inconsistence with FC
will
be void

3. Can it be amended?
• The FC provides for its amendment :
-A.159
-A.161(E)
• There are 4 methods of amendment
based
on its condition.

4. 4 Methods of amendment
1. Required 2/3 majority with consent from
Governor of Sabah & Sarawak
2. Required the 2/3 majority with consent
from ruler( majlis raja-raja)
3. Required a simple majority
4. Required a 2/3 majority only

5. First method
• To amend provision of:
- Special interest of Sabah & Sarawak
• Requiring:
- 2/3 majority from each house
- Consent from governor of Sabah &
Sarawak

6. Second method
• To amend:
- Important provision in the
constitution
- The sensitive issues
• Requiring:
- 2/3 majority from each house
- Consent from the ruler

7. Third method
• Certain provisions of the constitution
can be amended by simple majority:
- Restriction of freedom of speech,
assembly and association.
- the rules concerning the election
• Requiring
- Simple majority

8. Fourth method
• Known as common method of
amendment.
• Most provisions of the constitution can
be amended by this method.
• 2/3 majority from each house of
parliament.