ABSTRACT
This chapter examines Malaysia’s complex plural legal system, focusing on the tensions between civil and Islamic personal status laws and their impact on gender equality. It explores how federal and state-level legal frameworks create inconsistencies in areas such as marriage, divorce, and interfaith relations. Through case studies and analysis of Malaysia’s obligations under CEDAW, the chapter highlights the challenges of harmonizing laws in a context where Islam is constitutionally protected and state regulated. It argues that meaningful reform requires coordinated legal and political efforts across jurisdictions.
