PM Anwar reaffirms Federal Government recognition of Tuanku Muhriz as Negeri Sembilan ruler

PUTRAJAYA - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s recognition of Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, while stressing that the sovereignty of the Malay Rulers’ institution will continue to be safeguarded in accordance with the Constitution.

He said developments in the state were "concerning”, but emphasised that any challenge to the royal institution must be pursued strictly through proper legal and constitutional channels, backed by solid justification.

"We, as the Federal Government, although not directly involved (in the state affairs), must provide guidance, particularly to the Malay community and Malaysians in general. The monarchy is not just a name; it carries dignity, conventions and rules. Therefore, we will continue to uphold the position, dignity and sovereignty of the Rulers,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Meranti Puchong near here.

As such, Anwar said the Federal Government continues to work with and recognise Tuanku Muhriz as the legitimate Yang di-Pertuan Besar, urging all parties to avoid actions that could cause public concern.

"Any attempt to remove or impeach a ruler would carry very serious implications for the country and its stability. That is why we take this matter seriously, and I have conveyed this view to the relevant parties,” he said.

The Prime Minister said this in response to media reports regarding the installation of Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar as the 12th Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan by the Undang Yang Empat at a simple ceremony held at a resort in Melaka earlier today.

At the same time, the Prime Minister supported Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun’s decision to dissolve the State Legislative Assembly and return the mandate to the people through a state election, citing the need to resolve political uncertainty.

"I fully support the Menteri Besar’s view that, given the confusion and lack of clarity, it is best to hold an election, and His Royal Highness has also given his consent,” he said.

"For us, we move forward while continuing to work with Tuanku Muhriz as the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan. Any other course of action, if pursued through proper channels, is not something we will obstruct,” he added.

Yesterday, Aminuddin announced that the 36-seat Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly was officially dissolved today to pave the way for the 16th state election. - BERNAMA