Poligami: marrying more than one wife

Poligami means a man is married to more than one wife at the same time, permitted under Islamic law provided certain conditions are met, including the ability to treat each wife fairly.

In Malaysia, a husband needs the Syariah Court’s written permission before marrying again. The existing wife has the right to be informed and heard before permission is granted, and the court assesses the husband’s financial capacity and intention to treat all wives fairly.

Poligami without court permission can carry legal consequences for the husband, and can become a ground for the existing wife to apply for fasakh if she is treated unfairly.

To understand the existing wife’s rights in this situation, read poligami and a wife’s rights, or see nusyuz for related maintenance issues that can come up.