Parliament of Malaysia, Legislative complex in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Parliament of Malaysia comprises two chambers: the Dewan Rakyat with 222 elected members and the Dewan Negara with 70 appointed senators. The building stands in a governmental complex near central Kuala Lumpur and features a tall tower visible from a distance.
The first parliamentary session took place on September 11, 1959, after power transferred from the Federal Legislative Council following independence. The current building was constructed later to house the growing legislature and centralize parliamentary functions.
Parliamentary sessions are conducted in both Malay and English, reflecting the official linguistic character of the country. Visitors can hear the different languages as representatives and senators speak during debates and discuss legislation in both tongues.
Members of the lower chamber serve five-year terms after direct elections, while senators receive three-year appointments with a maximum of two terms. Tours must be arranged in advance, and accessibility depends on whether sessions are in progress or not.
The building's tower rises 77 meters high and houses ministerial offices and administrative spaces in its upper levels. This vertical arrangement sets the Malaysian parliamentary building apart from many other legislative complexes that are organized horizontally.
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