Malay styles and titles

Singapore, whose Malay royalty was abolished by the British colonial government in 1891, has adopted civic titles for its leaders. However, when the officials and leaders who were bestowed the Malay titles by Malaysia and Brunei, the title will be only referred to on their visit to the title's state's local media. Much of the Philippines was historically accustomed to the usage of Malay titles by its royals and nobles, such as Raja Sulayman and Dayang Kalangitan in Luzon. Malay titles are still prominently used by the royal houses of Sulu and Maguindanao among other noble lineages in Mindanao in preservation of genealogies. Officially, the republic does not grant royal or noble titles according to the 1987 Constitution. Indonesia, meanwhile, as a republic, does not recognise hereditary rulers and aristocratic systems outside of Yogyakarta. ==Usage==

The sequence that should be used when formally writing or addressing a person's name is: honorary style, professional rank, royal hereditary title, federal title, state title, non-royal hereditary title, Doctor (of medicine or philosophy), Haji/Hajah (for Muslim men and women who have performed the Hajj), name. For instance, in Brunei, the Wazir is a group of royal nobles, namely one of the royal princes who is gahara (pure descendants of the Sultan), are the second-highest official post in the nation, right behind the Sultan. Following this, the Cheteria, only bestowed upon the Pengiran, who perform specific jobs and are ranked above the Manteri, a group of non-royal nobles. An example of a Manteri would be the former police commissioner of Brunei, Hasrin Sabtu, whose honorary title would be Yang Dimuliakan (The Exalted One), noble rank is Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam, state title is Dato Paduka Seri and traditional Bruneian prefix title for non-royalty is Awang (Mr.). When in the home state, the state title may precede the federal title. An example is the current Premier of Sarawak, Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg, whose federal title is Tan Sri, whose state title is Datuk Patinggi and Bruniean title is Dato Seri Setia. His title will be expressed as either: • Yang Amat Berhormat Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg (federally) • Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg (in his home state). • Yang Amat Berhormat Tan Sri Dato Seri Setia (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg (in Brunei). Another exception is when a person has received an award from a state other than the person's home state; when visiting the award-bestowing state, that state's title will take the place of a home state's title (if any). As an example, the current Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim will be titled as follows: • ''Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Seri'' Anwar bin Ibrahim (federally) • Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Anwar bin Ibrahim (in Kelantan) • ''Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Seri Utama'' Anwar bin Ibrahim (in Penang) • ''Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Seri Diraja'' Anwar bin Ibrahim (in Perlis) • Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Anwar bin Ibrahim (in Sabah) A style carried by virtue of royal title always trumps those carried by non-royal titles. Male royals may choose to append 'al-Haj' to their name instead of using 'Haji'. The following example is correct: • Yang Amat Mulia General Tengku Dato' (name) al-Haj. ==Malay royalty==

The following titles are hereditary and reserved for the royal families of Brunei and nine royal states of Malaysia. Brunei According to royal customs established during the reign of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and based on knowledge passed down by elders, any name, rank, title, position, or honorific must be preceded by a before being mentioned or written. This tradition reflects the deep respect for hierarchical and cultural values in Brunei. Given that Brunei is an absolute monarchy, the correct use of official titles for members of the royal family is essential. Incorrect usage can cause discomfort or be perceived as disrespectful, emphasising the importance of adhering to these formal protocols. for the Sultan: • Before reaching puberty: (followed by the Sultan's given name). • Before the coronation: (followed by the Sultan's given name). • After the coronation: (followed by the Sultan's given name), Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan. • After the coronation and performing the Hajj: (followed by the Sultan's given name), Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan. • Upon abdication: (followed by the Sultan's given name). • Upon abdication after performing the Hajj: (followed by the Sultan's given name). for the Sultan's wife: • Before being honoured: (followed by her given name). • After being honoured: (followed by her given name). • After being honoured and performing Hajj: (followed by her given name). • Second wife of the Sultan before his coronation: (followed by her name without the term 'Isteri'). • Second wife of the Sultan after his coronation: (followed by her given name). • Sultan's wife from common lineage: or (followed by her given name). • After abdication from the throne: (followed by her given name). for the and his wife: , son of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah • Before performing the obligatory Hajj: (followed by his given name). • After performing the obligatory Hajj: (followed by his given name). • Wife of the : (followed by her given name). • Wife of the from common lineage: After being officially declared and granted the title of either , , or any other title, her '''' depends on the bestowed honour (followed by her given name). for the son of Sultan and his wife: • son of Sultan: (followed by his given name). • If he becomes a Wazir: (followed by his title) (followed by his given name). • Wife of the son of Sultan: (followed by her given name). • Wife of the son of Sultan from common lineage: After being officially declared and granted the title of either , , or any other title, her '''' depends on the bestowed honour (followed by her given name). for the daughter of Sultan: , daughter of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah • For the daughter of Sultan: (followed by her given name). • If married to a Wazir or Cheteria: Same as above, preceded by the phrase (followed by her husband's title). for the children of son of Sultan: • For the male child of a son: (followed by his given name). • For the female child of a son: (followed by her given name). for the children of daughter of Sultan: • For the male child of a daughter: '''' (followed by his given name). • For the female child of a daughter: '''' (followed by her given name). of the mother of : • '''' (followed by her given name). • If the Queen Consort's mother is from a common lineage, or if she has been granted the title Pengiran or otherwise, the to be used for her will depend on the title granted by the Sultan. of the non- children of Sultan: • '''' (followed by their given name). of the non- grandchildren of Sultan: • '''' (followed by their given name). of the and his wife: • If he is the son of the Sultan: (followed by his given name). • If he is the non- son of the Sultan: (followed by his given name). • The 's wife from Pengiran lineage: (followed by her given name), wife of . • The 's wife from Pengiran lineage: (followed by her given name). • The or 's wife from common lineage: The is decreed, subject to the Sultan's grant. of the Wazir and his wife: , non- son of Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin • : (followed by his given name). • : (followed by his given name). • : (followed by his given name). • : (followed by his given name). • If the Wazir is a son of the Sultan and his wife is from Pengiran lineage: (followed by her given name). • If all of Wazir's wives from Pengiran lineage: (followed by their given name). • If the Wazir's wife from a common lineage: (followed by her given name). Wife of , , or (followed by their given name), unless there is a special decree. of the Cheteria and his wife: • Cheteria: (followed by his title and given name). • Wife of Cheteria if she is from : (followed by her given name). • Wife of Cheteria if she is from Pengiran or common lineages: (followed by her given name), wife of Pengiran (followed by the husband's title). , son of Pengiran Muda Haji Jefri Bolkiah of the male and female child of Wazir: • For the male child of or Wazir ( son of Sultan): (followed by his given name). • If female: (followed by her given name). • For the male child of (but the is a non- son of the Sultan): (followed by his given name). • For the male child of Wazir (but the Wazir is a non- son of the Sultan): (followed by his given name). • For the non- child of Wazir: (followed by their given name). of the children of Cheteria: • For the children of Cheteria (if the wife of the Cheteria is a daughter of the Sultan): (followed by their given name). • For the and non- child of Cheteria: (followed by their given name). of the of Pengiran Anak: • For the children of Pengiran Anak whose wife is a Pengiran Anak: (followed by their given name). • For the children of Pengiran Anak whose wife is not a Pengiran Anak: '''' (followed by their given name). of the : • For a male or female, whether gahara or not: Yang Mulia Pengiran (followed by the name of the individual). of the : • For the : . • For the : . • For the and : . • For the : . • For the : . of the senior government officials: • For the cabinet ministers: . • For the members of the Council of Ministers: According to the respective title and position. • For the high commissioners or ambassadors: . Malaysia • Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (KDYMM) (literally 'He/She who is below the dust of The Almighty') is used for the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and state rulers alike. The title is a reference to the rulers being subjected to the Law of God with their powers below that of Allah. However, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong also uses the prefix 'Seri Paduka Baginda' (literally, 'Conqueror Majesty') and in English, his title is often translated as 'His Majesty'. However, the style differs from state to state as according to states' tradition. Federal Titles of Malaysian royalty and rulers: • Yang di-Pertuan Agong (literally, 'He who is made Supreme Lord' but usually 'Supreme Head' or 'Paramount Ruler') is the official title of the ruler of all Malaysia, elected from among the nine heads of the royal families. The title is often glossed 'King' in English. He is styled as Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Seri Paduka Baginda (His Majesty). • Timbalan Yang di-Pertuan Agong (literally, 'Deputy of He who is made Supreme Lord', but usually 'Deputy Supreme Head' or 'Deputy Paramount Ruler') is the official title of the deputy ruler of all Malaysia who is also elected from among the nine heads of the royal families. The title is often glossed 'Deputy King' in English. He is styled as Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Raja Permaisuri Agong (literally, 'The Supreme Lady') is the official title of the consort of the ruler of Malaysia. The title is often glossed 'Queen' in English. She is styled as Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Seri Paduka Baginda (Her Majesty). • (YDPN) is not a royal title, but the title of 'The Head of the State' (the 'Supreme Head') for the state of Penang, Melaka, Sabah, and Sarawak, which do not have hereditary rulers. is installed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The title is sometimes translated as 'Governor' in English. They are styled Tuan/Puan Yang Terutama (His/Her Excellency). Negeri Sembilan • Yamtuan Besar, officially Yang di-Pertuan Besar (literally 'He who is made Chief Ruler',) is the title of the ruler of Negeri Sembilan. He is styled as Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Tunku Ampuan Besar ('The Chief Royal Consort') is the title of the queen consort of royal parentage for Negeri Sembilan. She is styled as Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • ''Che' Ampuan Besar is the title of the queen consort of non-royal blood (commoner). She is styled as Duli Yang Teramat Mulia'' (Her Royal Highness). • Tunku Ampuan ('The Chief Dowager') is the title of the queen dowager. She is styled as Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tunku Puan Besar ('The Senior Chief Dowager') is the title of the senior queen dowager. She is styled Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • The children of rulers have the title and style of Yang Amat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Tunku. • The fiefs of the state, the Undangs are for the areas (luak) of Jelebu, Johol, Sungai Ujong, and Rembau. They are all styled Yang Teramat Mulia (His Grace). Their spouses are titled Tok Puan with the style Yang Mulia (Her Grace). • The Tunku Besar of Tampin, a semi-autonomous area ruled by the Al-Qadri family. He is styled Yang Teramat Mulia (His Grace). His spouse is accorded the title of Tunku Isteri (of royal parentage) and Cik Puan Isteri (of non-royal blood) with the style of Yang Mulia (Her Grace). • The Tunku Besar (literally the 'Senior Prince') of Seri Menanti is the title of eldest son of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar. He is styled Yang Amat Mulia (His Highness). Selangor • Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan is the title of the ruler of Selangor. He is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Royal Highness). The style is also the title of the state anthem. • Tengku Ampuan Selangor is the title of the queen consort of royal parentage. She is styled as Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tengku Permaisuri Selangor is the title for queen consort of non-royal blood. She is styled as Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • ''Che' Puan Besar Selangor is the title for second consort of the ruler (of non-royal blood) if he is still marries with queen consort. She is styled as Yang Teramat Mulia'' (Her Highness). • Tengku Ampuan (literally 'Queen Dowager') is the title of the queen dowager is she of royal blood. She is styled as Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Paduka Bonda Raja (literally 'Royal Mother') is the title of the Sultan's mother who was not installed as a Tengku Ampuan. She is styled as Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Permaisuri is the title of the queen dowager if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Amat Mulia (Her Highness). • Raja Muda Selangor (literally means 'Younger King') is the title of the heir apparent. He is then styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (His Highness). • Raja Puan Muda Selangor (literally 'Younger Lady King') is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Highness). • ''Che' Puan Muda Selangor is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Teramat Mulia'' (Her Highness). • The other children of the Sultan is titled and styled Yang Amat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Tengku. • The palace dignitaries or Orang Besar Istana whom are responsible for any engagement involving the palace is titled and styled as Yang Dimuliakan (His Highness) Tengku. His spouse is accorded the honorific prefix of To’ Puan. Perlis • Raja and Yang di-Pertuan is the title of the ruler of Perlis. He is styled as Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Raja Perempuan (literally 'Female Queen') is the title of the queen consort of Perlis. She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Perempuan Besar is the title of the queen dowager. She is styled Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Muda (literally 'Younger King') is the title of the heir apparent. He is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Raja Puan Muda (literally 'Younger Lady King') is the title of the consort of the heir apparent. She is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • The other children of the Raja and Raja Muda are styled as Yang Amat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Syed/Sharifah, with the suffix house name of Jamalullail. Terengganu • Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan is the title of the ruler of the state of Terengganu. He is styled Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Tengku Ampuan Besar is the title of the queen consort of the state for queens of royal blood. She is styled as Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Permaisuri is the title of the queen consort if she is not of royal blood initially used by Sultanah Nur Zahirah until it was changed by Sultan Mizan. A Permaisuri is styled Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Sultanah is a customarily title that is awarded to the consort of the Sultan. She is styled Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tengku Ampuan is the title of the Queen dowager. She is styled as Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tengku Ampuan Tua (literally 'Grand Queen dowager') is the title of the senior queen dowager. She is styled as Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tengku Besar is the title of the Sultan's mother if she has not been crowned. She is styled as Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Highness). • Yang di-Pertuan Muda (literally 'He who is made the young Lord') is the title of the heir apparent. He is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Tengku Puan Muda is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • ''To' Puan Seri is the honorific form of address for the consort of the heir apparent if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Amat Berbahagia'' (The Most Honourable). • The other children of the Sultan is styled and titled Yang Amat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Tengku. Kedah • Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan is the title of the ruler of the state of Kedah. He is styled Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Sultanah is the title of the ruler's consort, of royal blood or not. She is styled Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tunku Ampuan (Dowager Queen) was the title of the widow of the ruler who is of royal blood. She was styled Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Che Puan Besar (literally 'Grand Dowager') is the title of the widow if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Muda (literally 'Crown Prince') is the title of the heir apparent. He is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Raja Puan Muda (literally 'Crown Princess') is the title of the consort of the heir apparent. She is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tunku Mahkota (literally 'Deputy Crown Prince') is the title of the second heir apparent. He is titled Duli Yang Amat Mulia (His Highness). • Tunku Puan Mahkota (literally 'Deputy Crown Princess') is the title of the consort of the second heir apparent. She is titled Duli Yang Amat Mulia (Her Highness). • The other children of the Sultan and Raja Muda are titled and styled Yang Teramat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Tunku. Kelantan • Al-Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan Kelantan is the title of the ruler of the state of Kelantan. He is styled Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Raja Perempuan Kelantan (literally 'Lady King') is the title of the consort of the Sultan if she is of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Sultanah Kelantan is the title of the consort of the Sultan if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Perempuan (literally 'Queen Dowager') is the title of the queen dowager if she is of royal blood. She is styled Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tengku Mahkota Kelantan (literally 'Crown Prince') is the title of the heir apparent. He is styled Yang Teramat Mulia (His Highness). • Tengku Ampuan Mahkota Kelantan (literally 'Crown Princess') is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is of royal blood. She is styled Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Highness). • Che Puan Mahkota Kelantan (equivalent to 'Crown Princess') is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Highness). • The other children of the Al-Sultan are titled Yang Amat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Tengku. If they hold certain palace positions, they are titled Yang Berhormat Mulia (His/Her Highness The Honourable) Tengku. Pahang • Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan is the title of the ruler of the state of Pahang. He is styled Kebawah Duli Paduka Baginda (His Royal Highness). • Tengku Ampuan Pahang (literally 'Queen Consort') is the title of the consort of the Sultan if she is of royal blood. She is styled Kebawah Duli Paduka Baginda (Her Royal Highness). • Sultanah Pahang is the title of the consort of the Sultan if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Tengku Ampuan Besar ((literally 'Queen Dowager') is the title of the queen dowager if she is of royal blood. She is styled as Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Che Puan Besar (literally 'Grand Dowager') is the title of the widow if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Amat Mulia (Her Highness). • Tengku Mahkota Pahang (literally 'Crown Prince') is the title of the heir apparent. He is styled Kebawah Duli Paduka Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Tengku Puan Pahang (literally 'Crown Princess') is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is of royal blood. She is styled Kebawah Duli Paduka Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Che Puan Pahang (equivalent to 'Princess Consort') is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Kebawah Duli Paduka Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • The children of the Sultan are titled and styled Yang Amat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Tengku. The children of the Tengku Mahkota are titled and styled Yang Mulia (His/Her Highness). • The other all descendants of the Sultan are titled Tengku. Johor • Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan is the title of the ruler of Johor. He is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (His Majesty). • Permaisuri is the customarily title for a queen consort of royal blood (direct daughter of the sultan) outside the Johor Sultanate's blood line. She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Majesty). • Sultanah is the title for his wife with non-royal blood or for his wife of noble birth (distant royal relatives). She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Majesty). • Tunku Ampuan (archaic) is the title for the consort of the Sultan if she is from a junior branch of the Johor Royal Family. She was styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). This was last used in 1895 for Tunku Ampuan Ungku Maimunah. • Tunku Puan is the title of the queen dowager of royal blood. She is styled Yang Amat Mulia (Her Highness). • ''Enche' Besar is the title awarded to the mother of the Sultan if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Amat Mulia'' (Her Highness). • Tunku Mahkota (literally 'Crown Prince') is the title of the heir apparent. He is styled Duli Yang Amat Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Isteri Tunku Mahkota (literally 'Consort of the Crown Prince') is the title for the consort of the heir apparent. She is styled Yang Amat Mulia (Her Highness). • ''Che' Puan Mahkota (formerly Che’ Puan Besar) is the customarily honorific form of address for the consort of the heir apparent if she is not of royal blood. She is styled as Yang Amat Mulia'' (Her Highness). • Raja Muda (literally 'Younger King') is the title of the first son of the heir apparent. The situation is similar to France where during the reign of Louis XIV, his son was titled the le Grand Dauphin and his grandson was also titled le Petit Dauphin. He is titled Duli Yang Amat Mulia (His Royal Highness). • The other children of the Sultan are titled and styled Yang Amat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Tunku. • Related Royal paternal hereditary titles to Tunku, is Ungku. Denotes particular lineages of the Royal Family of Johor with the style of Yang Mulia (His/ Her Highness). Perak • Sultan, Yang di-Pertuan dan Raja Pemerintah is the title of the ruler of Perak. He is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri (His Royal Highness). • Raja Perempuan Perak is the title of the consort of the ruler if she is of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Permaisuri Perak is the title of the consort of the ruler if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Che Puan Negara is the title of the second wife of the ruler. She is styled Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Highness). • Raja Perempuan is the title of the queen dowager if she is of royal blood. Would be granted the style of Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Permaisuri is the title of the queen dowager is she is not of royal blood. She is styled Yang Maha Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Muda Perak is the title of the heir apparent. He is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (His Royal Highness). • Raja Puan Besar Perak is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Che Puan Besar Perak is the title of the consort of the heir apparent if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia (Her Royal Highness). • Raja Di-Hilir Perak is the title of second heir apparent. He is styled Duli Yang Amat Mulia (His Highness). • Raja Puan Muda Perak is the title of the consort of the second heir apparent if she is of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Amat Mulia (Her Highness). • Che Puan Muda Perak is the title of the consort of the second heir apparent if she is not of royal blood. She is styled Duli Yang Amat Mulia (Her Highness). • The other children of the Sultan and Raja Bergelar is styled Yang Teramat Mulia (His/Her Highness) Raja/Engku. ==Federal titles==

In Malaysia, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King of Malaysia) grants honours to recipients nominated by the Government of Malaysia as awards which are honorary and non-hereditary. These honours may also be revoked by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong or returned by the individual. Some of the highest honours bestowed carries with them the titles of Tun, Tan Sri, or Datuk. There is a maximum number of Malaysian subjects who may be award-holders at any one time. These numerical limits apply only to Malaysian subjects. Foreigners may be awarded such titles in a supernumerary and honorary capacity, and may use the title locally. Tun The Tun title has existed in Malay traditional society for hundreds of years. In ancient times, Tun was an honorific title used by noble people of royal lineage, inherited by the male descendants. Over time, the Tun title has become a title conferred by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to the most-deserving recipient who has highly contributed to the nation. Tun is the most senior federal title awarded to recipients of either the Seri Maharaja Mangku Negara (Grand Commander of the Order of the Defender of the Realm) (SMN) or Seri Setia Mahkota (Grand Commander of the Order of Loyalty to the Crown of Malaysia) (SSM). However, the SMN and SSM are not the highest federal awards, ranking fourth and fifth, respectively. There may not be more than 25 (SMN) and 35 (SSM) living holders of each of these awards respectively at any one time. The title for the wife of a Tun is called Toh Puan. The recipients and their wives are then bestowed with the style of Yang Amat Berbahagia or (The Most Honourable). The SMN is usually awarded to newly appointed (YDPN), and to all the retired Prime Ministers of Malaysia, with the exception of Tunku Abdul Rahman (he is the Prince of the state of Kedah), Najib Razak, Muhyiddin Yassin, and Ismail Sabri Yaakob. Examples: • Yang Amat Berbahagia (The Most Honourable) Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad ; • Yang Amat Berbahagia (The Most Honourable) Tun Dr. Ling Liong Sik . Tan Sri Tan Sri is the second-most senior federal title and a honorific, used to denote recipients of the Panglima Mangku Negara (Commander of the Order of the Defender of the Realm) (PMN) and the Panglima Setia Mahkota (Commander of the Order of Loyalty to the Crown of Malaysia) (PSM). The wife of a Tan Sri is called Puan Sri. The recipients and their wives are then bestowed with the style of Yang Berbahagia or (The Honourable). Examples: • Tan Sri Datuk Amar P. Ramlee • ''Yang Berhormat Tan Sri Dato' Haji'' Muhyiddin Yassin ; • Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Abdul Gani Patail ; • Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Dr Runme Shaw, ; • ''Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Dato' Seri'' Michelle Yeoh ; • ''Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Dato' Sri'' Dr Mohamed Shafee Abdullah . Datuk Datuk is a federal title that has been conferred since 1965. It is limited to recipients of Panglima Jasa Negara (Commander of the Order of Meritorious Service) (PJN) and Panglima Setia Diraja (Commander of the Order of Loyalty to the Royal Family of Malaysia) (PSD). There may be up to 200 living PJN holders and 200 living PSD holders at any one time. The title of the wife of a male Datuk is Datin; women with the title can take either the title Datin or Datuk. The recipients and their wives are then bestowed with the style of Yang Berbahagia (The Honourable). Examples: • Yang Berbahagia Datuk Lee Chong Wei ; • Yang Berbahagia Datuk Punch Gunalan ; • Yang Berbahagia Datuk Ali Abdul Kadir; • Yang Berbahagia Datuk Ahmad Fauzi Hasan; • Yang Berbahagia Datuk Prof. Dr. Mohamad Akram Laldin. Dato In Brunei, the title Dato is now comparable to the Commonwealth's Sir and is frequently used with a great non-royal chief. ==State titles==

In Malaysia, state honours are awarded by the respective heads of the thirteen states. Such titles are honorary and non-hereditary. State titles may be revoked or suspended by the head of state, or may be returned by the individual. Dato' Sri or Dato' Seri (sometimes Dato’ is spelled and pronounced Datuk in some states) is the highest state title conferred by the Ruler on the most deserving recipients who have contributed greatly to the nation or state. It ranks below the federal title Tun, and is an honour equivalent to federal title Tan Sri. The wife of a recipient is Datin Sri or Datin Seri. In many cases, the number of Malaysian nationals who may hold a state title or honour at one time is limited. Such limits do not apply to foreigners. Pehin This title is mainly used in Brunei Darussalam. An example of the title in Brunei would be Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Di-Raja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa, the former Minister of Home Affairs and the current Special Adviser to the Sultan of Brunei. The titles refers to the traditional ministers posts in Brunei. Pehin Sri This title is mainly used in Sarawak. Awarded to individuals who have been appointed as Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak or equivalent or higher. An example of the title in Sarawak would be Tun Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud, Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak. Seri Setia This title is mainly used in Malacca. Awarded to individuals who have been appointed as Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Malacca or equivalent or higher. An example of the title in Malacca would be Tun Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Mohd Ali Rustam, Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Malacca. JP Justice of Peace (JP) ranks below all Dato or Datuk. In Malaysia, Justices of Peace have largely been replaced in magistrates' courts by legally-qualified (first-class) stipendiary magistrates. However, state governments continue to appoint Justices of Peace as honours. In 2004, some associations of JPs pressed the federal government to allow JPs to sit as second-class magistrates to reduce the backlog of cases in the courts. ==Special cases==

If a person has been awarded several honours from different states, the title used varies. For example, sometimes former Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad is usually referred to as YABhg Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad anywhere in Malaysia. However, different terms of address may be used in the states that he visits. In Sarawak, he will be referred to as YABhg Tun Pehin Sri Mahathir Mohamad as he received the Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Star of Sarawak (SBS) from the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak. While in Sabah, he is referred to as Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, as he received the Grand Commander of the Order of Kinabalu (SPDK) from the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah. ==Honorary styles==

The following are used as styles, both before a person's title, and by themselves as forms of address: • Tuan Yang Terutama (TYT) () – the style of a state governor, equivalent to 'Your/His Excellency', and also as a title for serving Ambassadors to Malaysia, e.g. T.Y.T. Tuan Brian D. McFeeters. Previously, the archaic equivalent to the style His Excellency. This was used by Singapore, Indonesia, and in Malaysia; for other Republic's leaders, while the style for Governors / Yang di-Pertuas were Tuan Yang Terutama. • Yang Amat Berhormat (YAB) () – the style of the prime minister, the deputy prime minister, the Premier of Sarawak, the chief ministers and the Menteri Besars of the states, and Tuns who are members of parliament. It used to be 'the Right Honorable', but since Malaysia withdrew as a member of the Privy Council in the 1990s, the right to use 'Right Honourable' has been revoked. • Yang Berhormat (YB) () – the style of members of parliament and state legislative assemblymen. The prefix Yang Berhormat is also used for recipients of the First and Second Classes of the Johor's Orders of Chivalry who is titled Dato' for men and Datin Paduka for women, regardless of whether a member of parliament or not. • Yang Berhormat Mulia (YBM) () - the style for a member of royalty who is also a member of parliament (e.g. Yang Berhormat Mulia Tengku Zulpuri Shah Raja Puji, the MP for Raub). This style is also used by royals with high ranking federal titles such as Tun (eg. Yang Berhormat Mulia Tun Raja Uda). • Yang Amat Arif (YAA) () – the style of the Chief Justice of Malaysia, the President of the Court of Appeal of Malaysia, the Chief Judge of the High Court of Malaya, and the Chief Judge of the High Court of Sabah and Sarawak. • Yang Arif (YA) () – the style of a judge of the Federal Court or Court of Appeal, as well a judicial commissioner or judge of the High Court of Malaya or the High Court of Sabah and Sarawak. It does not apply to session court judges or magistrates. • Yang Amat Berbahagia (YABhg) () – the style of persons with the titles Tun or Toh Puan, and the spouses of state governors, the spouse of the prime minister, the spouse of the deputy prime minister, as well as the spouses of state chief ministers. • Yang Berbahagia (YBhg) () (and variants thereof) – the styles of persons with a chivalrous title. • Yang Hormat (YHmt) (The Honourable) – the style for recipients of the First and Second Classes of the Pahang's Orders of Chivalry. • Yang Dihormati (YDhmti) (The Respected) -- The wife of a recipient of the Johor State Order of Merit conferred by the Sultan of Johor, whose husband is titled The Honourable Dato', The Respected Datin wife's name with Dato' husband's name or Dato' husband's surname after the wife's name, for example. The English versions of these styles follow British usage. Thus the prime minister, cabinet ministers, senators, state executive councillors and judges of the High Court and above are styled the Honorable or the Right Honorable, although technically it is a solecism to style the prime minister or heads of courts Right Honourable as they are not members of the Privy Council of the United Kingdom. ==Noble Inherited Titles==

Malay noble titles are family hereditary titles which signify an individual’s social rank, lineage, and connection to ruling families within Malay society. Socially, they function as markers of identity and precedence as these titles are naturally used by Malay royal and aristocratic families. Bearers of the royal title Raja/Tengku/Tunku/Megat/Puteri/Syed/Sharifah are formally addressed as His/Her Highness which is put before the respective hereditary title. legally, the rights to use these titles are regulated by the Malaysian government and restricted to only individuals within the families. A title is put before a name (His/Her Highness + Title + Given name) eg., His Highness Tengku Iskandar. Inheritance follows a paternal mechanism, whereby titles are transmitted through the male line. Accordingly, a marriage between a titled female and a non-titled male may result in their children bearing a lower title or cease to be passed down depending on the rank of the female's title. Royal Titles: • Raja, (means king) royal title inherited by the children (male and female) of a royal father with the title Raja used by members of the Perak Royal Family. Engku is often used to politely address senior members of the Perak Royal Family. • Tunku, Tengku, (derived from Tuanku) royal title inherited through a royal father with such title used by members of the Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, Selangor, Kelantan, Negeri Sembilan and Kedah royal families. • Pengiran, royal title equivalent to Raja/Tengku/Tunku, inherited through a royal father and used by members of Brunei Royal Family. • Megat, royal title inherited by the sons of a royal female titled Raja who marries a commoner husband. This title is used by Perak royalties indicating half-blood royalty. The sons of a Megat have the right to inherit this title. However, daughters of a Megat and also daughters of a female Raja who marries a commoner bear the title Puteri: • Puteri, (means Princess) female version title equivalent to Megat. Inherited by the daughters of a royal female titled Raja who marries a commoner husband indicating a Half-blood Royal. Additionally, the daughters of a Megat will also inherit the title Puteri. However, if a Puteri marries a commoner, their children will not bear nor inherit any title. Noble Titles: • Syed, is a title inherited by male descendants, through the male line, from the Islamic prophet Muhammad via his grandsons Hassan and Hussein. This title is also used by the members of Perlis Royal Family, House of Jamullail, tracing the House's lineage back to Prophet Muhammad. • Sharifah, is the female version of Syed, inherited by female descendants of a Syed. • Meor is a title inherited by the male children of a Sharifah with a non-Syed husband. • Wan, (derived from Pahlawan which means commander/warrior) historically a title granted to high-ranking nobilities eg., army chiefs, ministers, during the 16th century in Kedah, Pahang and some parts of Kelantan. Some families are able to retain this title until today, indicating their distant noble lineage. This title is inherited by the children (male and female) of a male Wan. The children of a female Wan and a non-Wan husband will inherit no title. • Nik, historically a title used only by Kelanatanese high-ranking nobilities and some royalties in the 16th century Kelantan. Modern day Kelantanese royalties have changed their title into Tengku since the 18th century. The Nik family of Kelantan still retains this title in their names. This title is inherited by the children (male and female) of male Nik. The children of a female Nik and a non-Nik husband will inherit no title. ==Other titles==

• Haji (or Hajah for female) can be used by people who have completed the Hajj. This title is abbreviated as 'Hj.' or 'Hjh.'. • Tuan literally means 'master'. Due to its colonial overtones, this term is mostly obsolete. In some states like Kelantan, Pattani means Prince / Princess. A hereditary (paternal) title from one of the lineages of the Royal Family. In addition Tuan as an equivalent of Sir, it is used in formal correspondence. When addressing an audience, the plural form 'tuan-tuan' (gentlemen) is used, usually combined as 'tuan-tuan dan puan-puan' (gentlemen and ladies). • Encik (abbreviated 'En.') is equivalent to Mr., and can be used by all men. Warrant Officers in the Singapore Armed Forces are also referred to as Encik informally. • Puan (abbreviated 'Pn.') can be used by all married women. It is equivalent to Madam, not Mrs., as most married women in Malay-speaking countries do not use the names or surnames of their husbands. For married women who use their husbands' names, they can be addressed as ''Puan (husband's name)''. It is also used in formal correspondence. When addressing an audience, the plural form 'puan-puan' (ladies) is used, usually combined with 'tuan-tuan' as 'tuan-tuan dan puan-puan'. • Cik is equivalent to Miss, and can be used by all unmarried women. ==Related issues==

Not all Datuks have lived exemplary lives, and some have been convicted of crimes. The various rulers have recently taken steps to ensure the integrity of the institution by means of consultation and the revoking of the given titles. Mahathir Mohamad mentioned that one of the problems with titles in Malaysia is the numbers of them given out. He stated in an interview "Personally, I feel if you want to give value to anything, it must be limited... if you produce a million Ferrari cars, nobody will care about buying a Ferrari." The Sultan Nazrin Shah of Perak, stated "That is my view. You degrade the award and the Ruler has the right to revoke it. In my opinion, it should be taken away." He also stated that "Sometimes, I think we give away too many datukships... it dilutes and devalues the award." In the first government following the independence of Malaya in 1957, 5 of 15 cabinet Ministers were Datuks. The Minister of Finance of Malaysia at the time, Tan Siew Sin, held the title Justice of Peace. Later, he was granted a Federal award which carried the title Tun. The father of Malayan independence, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, received no awards and carried the title Tunku, which he inherited as the prince of the state of Kedah. He was honorarily referred to as Yang Teramat Mulia (YTM). The Senate held only 14 Datuks, and House of Representatives held only seven. The Malacca government was criticised for awarding the Datuk title to a non-Malaysian Indian actor, Shah Rukh Khan, for making movies and promoting the Malacca state internationally. In 2024, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar of Johor, stated "If a recipient is found to have tarnished the country’s image or commits a crime and has been punished by the court, then the award will be withdrawn. (Say) Goodbye to it." He also stated that "Accordingly, I have instructed the government to check the list of inmates in all prisons. I want any inmate with federal awards or honours to have their award withdrawn. This is only for federal awards and honours. As for awards conferred by other states, I do not interfere,". Johor • The Sultan of Johor revoked the titles of four Dato's in 2010. Negeri Sembilan • In 2018, the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan revoked the state honours bestowed upon Mohammad Najib Abdul Razak and his wife, Rosmah Mansor. Pahang • The Sultan of Pahang revoked the titles of two Dato's in 2004. Selangor • The Dato's of Selangor attempted to set up an association of Selangor Dato's. It received approval from the registrar of societies, but was shelved when the Sultan forbade any Dato' from joining or otherwise risk losing their title. • Four Datuks were removed in 2003 by the Sultan of Selangor. • ''Dato' Seri'' Anwar Ibrahim had his title revoked by the Sultan of Selangor on 3 November 2014. • In 2019, the Sultan of Selangor revoked the state honours bestowed upon Najib Razak and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, on 12 September 2022. ==See also==