Malaysia s political rights rating changed from 4 to 5 due to the jailing of two leading political opponents and increased restrictions on freedom of expression. In 1998, as Malaysia s economic crisis worsened, Premier Mahathir Mohamad tightened his grip over society by arresting his deputy premier, which was viewed as politically motivated, as well as by jailing an opposition leader and applying new pressures on the media and nongovernmental organizations.
Executive power is vested in the prime minister and the cabinet.
As head of state, the King can delay legislation for thirty days. Although the government has gained considerable legitimacy by presiding over a rapidly expanding economy, it continues to use security laws to limit peaceful dissent. Mounting Malay frustration over the economic success of the ethnic Chinese minority exploded into anti-Chinese rioting in 1969. In 1971, the government responded with still-existing quotas for Malays in education, the civil service, and business affairs. The current premier and UMNO leader, Mahathir Mohamad, took office in 1981 and has since consolidated executive authority and rejected the notion of a loyal opposition.