In contrast to the other Malay sultanates, the ruling dynasty of Perak utilises a somewhat complex order of succession.

As per ruling of 25 February 1953, the present hierarchy of titles and the corresponding order of succession is as follows:[1] While titleholders are usually appointed for life, titles may be revoked in cases of proven incompetence or disability.

On the death or promotion of an existing titleholder, the holder of the next most senior title succeeds him.

The new sultan may then appoint his own nominee to the junior-most title made vacant by these successions.

[citation needed] The 2 most senior titleholders are confirmed by a majority vote of the representatives of the Perak State Legislative Assembly.