The cabinet is chosen from among members of both houses of parliament and is responsible to that body. The bicameral parliament consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Representatives of the House are elected from single-member districts by universal adult suffrage. The 192 members of the House of Representatives are elected to maximum terms of 5 years.
Legislative power is divided between federal and state legislatures.
The Malaysian legal system is based on English common law. The federal government has authority over external affairs, defense, internal security, justice, federal citizenship, finance, commerce, industry, communications, transportation, and other matters. Relationship to the United Nations Since joining the United Nations in 1957, Malaysia has established certain credibility in the international community. This is due to their increased economic prosperity and political stability. Malaysia has taken an active role in the United Nations and has been able to speak up on issues concerning developing countries without fear of retribution by the major powers.