The Fragile Status of a Muslim Wife

Abstract

In Malaysia, the law regarding polygamy is shrouded in complexities that cannot be simply addressed with a sweeping ban or a complete socio-legal acceptance. These complexities reflect the equally complex ways in which the practice has developed in this country throughout various historical periods. This article conducts a historical review of polygamy in Malaysia to understand the ways in which the legal developments have specifically impacted the status of women. It will focus in particular, on three key historical periods: the precolonial, the British colonial, and post-independence Malaysia.