ELECTION DISPUTES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE JUDICIAL REVIEW PROCESS IN MALAYSIA AND INDONESIA

Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz

doi:10.31436/iiumlj.v32i2.946

Authors

Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz Ahmad Ibrahim Kuliyyah of Laws, International Islamic University Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31436/iiumlj.v32i2.946

Keywords:

Functional Approach, Micro-comparison, Election Disputes, Judicial Reviews, Legal System

Abstract

This paper uses Zweigert and Kötz’ classical functional approach in comparative law to compare judicial reviews relating to election disputes in Malaysia and Indonesia. It is seen here that even though Malaysia and Indonesia have similarities in their intent to settle election disputes and apply the method of judicial review to act as a means of check-and-balance, the judiciary in both systems has shown themselves rather unwilling in directly addressing the legality of these election petitions. There are variations in court structure and legal regulations governing the systems in Malaysia and Indonesia. Malaysia’s Election Court often dismisses cases based on technicalities, while Indonesia’s Constitutional Court adopts a wider approach, incorporating cultural norms and indigenous rules. Additionally, Malaysia’s judicial system benefits from a more mature application of judicial review, grounded in its common law practice and a robust body of case law. By employing a micro-comparison method, this paper enhances understanding of the socio-political and legal contexts that influence the handling of election disputes in both countries. It also demonstrates the importance of considering the distinct legal structures, political influences, and historical legacies that define the electoral systems in Malaysia and Indonesia. The classical functional approach involving micro-comparison is best suited for the current study due to the particular problem of election disputes forming its focus. This paper aims at enhancing the understanding and knowledge regarding the social, cultural, historical, and other factors that influence the legal systems in both countries.

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