The Uniqueness of the Perak Sultanate Hierarchy System
The hierarchy system of the Perak Darul Ridzuan Sultanate is unique and differs from other Malaysian states. The Sultan of Perak ascends through a structured progression of royal titles, moving up one rank at a time until reaching the ultimate throne as the Sultan of Perak Darul Ridzuan.
It is highly unique and distinct from other states in Malaysia, which typically use a hereditary system from the reigning monarch to their son. This unique system is quite complex to understand, so great care is essential to ensure it remains a symbol of the state's peace and prosperity. Regarding the 'Raja Kecil' titles, it is customary for the reigning monarch to appoint their children to fill vacant positions within the Perak Sultanate hierarchy, ranging from the Raja Kecil Bongsu up to the Raja Kecil Besar. When a vacancy occurs due to a passing, those in the hierarchy are indirectly promoted one step, as shown in the image below, to fill the void. Consequently, following a death, those holding titles below the vacancy are moved up. This is also subject to certain conditions, where an individual may retain their position if health factors prevent them from carrying out the heavier duties and responsibilities of a higher rank.
The Perak State Council (Dewan Negara Negeri Perak) plays a role in the selection and holds the authority for the appointment of the Sultan and titled Royals. Established under the Perak State Constitution, the Council has a vital role in executing the selection and appointment process for the Sultan or reigning monarch and other titles within the hierarchy. This Council is not related to the legislative assembly that serves as one of the two houses of the Malaysian Parliament. The primary objective of the Council is to assist and advise the reigning monarch in carrying out their duties. Among the Council's other responsibilities is advising the monarch on the appointment of future Sultans and titled Royals. The Council can only convene when summoned by the reigning monarch. If the monarch is unable to attend, the most senior future Sultan will chair the session, or the most senior State Dignitary (Orang Besar Negeri) if no future Sultan is present. However, if the Council session is to discuss the selection and appointment of a reigning monarch, the reign of a monarch, the appointment of a Council of Regency, or any matter concerning the person of the monarch, or if the Council deems it beneficial for the monarch not to be present, then the monarch may not attend or chair the session. The same applies to future Sultans or titled Royals. Who are the members of the Perak State Council?
Official members:
- Future Sultans
- A representative of the titled Royals
- Menteri Besar
- The Four Major Chiefs (Orang Besar Empat)
- The Eight Major Chiefs (Orang Besar Delapan)
- Mufti
Unofficial members:
- Elders (11 individuals)
- Non-Malay (one individual)
For additional information, the titles for the wives of the reigning monarch, titled Royals, and incumbent Royals are as follows:
- Raja Permaisuri Perak
- Raja Puan Besar Perak
- Raja Puan Muda Perak
- Raja Kecil Besar
- Raja Kecil Sulung
- Raja Kecil Tengah
- Raja Kecil Bongsu
We at orangperak.com hope that you, our loyal readers, can understand the hierarchy system we have explained in this article. Does the question of why only Perak uses this hierarchy system for selecting its Sultan cross your mind? To answer this, let us discuss it together in the comments section, sharing your knowledge and insights so we can all learn from one another.
