Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced plans to introduce new legislation this year that would limit how long a prime minister can stay in office, fulfilling a long-promised political reform. The proposal marks a major step toward altering the country’s leadership rules and is part of a broader effort to strengthen governance and accountability.

In a special New Year’s address following a cabinet meeting, Anwar said his government will table a bill in Parliament to cap the prime minister’s term at no more than 10 years — or the equivalent of two full terms. This would be enshrined in law for the first time in Malaysia’s history.

Anwar told ministers and civil servants that leaders should not “cling to power” and reminded them that “everyone has a term limit.” He said it is better for leaders to serve their time and then allow a new generation to take the country forward.

Currently, Malaysia’s constitution does not limit how long a prime minister may remain in office. In the past, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad served as prime minister for 22 years during his first tenure, from 1981 to 2003 — the longest in the nation’s history. He later returned from retirement to lead the country’s government at age 92, becoming one of the world’s oldest heads of government.

Because there is no formal cap, prime ministers have remained in power as long as they command the confidence of Parliament. The proposed change would prevent future leaders from serving indefinitely and is aimed at promoting regular leadership renewal.