When is GE16?
Malaysia's 16th general election must be held by 17 February 2028 — but the Prime Minister can call it earlier, so it may come in 2026 or 2027.
Updated 1 July 2026 · based on the Federal Constitution & the 15th Parliament's first sitting (19 Dec 2022)
Why 17 February 2028?
Under the Federal Constitution, Parliament has a maximum life of five years from its first sitting. The 15th Parliament first met on 19 December 2022, so it automatically dissolves on 19 December 2027 if not dissolved earlier. A general election must then be held within 60 days — giving a final date of around 17 February 2028.
It could come sooner
The deadline is the latest date, not a fixed one. At any time, the Prime Minister can advise the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to dissolve Parliament, triggering an election within 60 days. Commentators see possible windows in 2026, 2027, or early 2028 — the timing is the government's call.
State elections come first
Several states run their own elections on separate clocks, and these often act as a bellwether before a general election:
Melaka — assembly term ends around December 2026; state poll due by early 2027.
Sarawak — must hold its state election by 2027.
Johor — assembly term ends around April 2027.
Many states may choose to dissolve their assemblies together with Parliament, so several of these could be held on the same day as GE16.
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Common questions
When is Malaysia's next general election (GE16)?
By 17 February 2028 at the latest. The 15th Parliament dissolves automatically on 19 December 2027, with an election required within 60 days. It can be called earlier by the Prime Minister.
Can GE16 be held before 2028?
Yes. The PM can advise the King to dissolve Parliament at any time, triggering an election within 60 days. Possible windows include 2026, 2027 or early 2028.
When are the next state elections?
Melaka (due by early 2027), Sarawak (by 2027) and Johor (term ends ~April 2027) hold their own polls, though many states may dissolve together with Parliament.
How often are Malaysian general elections held?
At least once every five years — Parliament's maximum term — after which it dissolves and an election follows within 60 days.