Legal Framework

The External Affairs Legislations that fall within the purview of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are:

• Diplomatic and Consular Officers (Oaths and Fees) Act 1959 (Revised 1988) [Act 348];

• Diplomatic Privileges (Vienna Convention) Act 1966 [Act 636];

• Consular Relations (Vienna Convention) Act 1999 [Act 595];

• Foreign Representative (Privileges and Immunities) Act 1967 (Revised 1995) [Act 541];

• International Organisations (Privileges and Immunities) Act 1992 [Act 485]; and

• Chemical Weapons Convention Act 2005 [Act 641].

In addition, the Federal Constitution allows Parliament to make laws related to external affairs that include:

• Treaties, agreements and conventions with other countries;

• Implementation of treaties, agreements and conventions with other countries;

• Diplomatic, consular and trade representation;

• International organisations; participation in international bodies and implementation of decisions taken thereat;

• Extradition, fugitive offenders; admission into, and emigration and expulsion from, the Federation;

• Passports, visas, permits of entry or other certificates, quarantine; 

• Foreign and extra-territorial jurisdiction; and

• Pilgrimage to places outside Malaysia.