Support for corrupt offenders unacceptable in nation governed by rule of law, says Tuanku Muhriz

KUALA PILAH: The Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, has urged those who continue to support corrupt offenders to undertake self-reflection and reassess their beliefs, stressing that any tolerance or compromise on corruption runs counter to truth, justice and trust, and is wholly unacceptable in a nation governed by the rule of law.

Expressing deep concern over the growing prevalence of corruption, Tuanku Muhriz said he was disappointed that some continue to support individuals convicted of graft. He said corruption is the foremost enemy of justice, trust and the nation’s future.

Bernama reported Tuanku Muhriz as saying he was shocked and disheartened that certain quarters still rallied behind individuals found guilty of serious corruption offences, as if such acts were acceptable or forgivable.

Such attitudes, he said, reflected not only a failure to grasp the destructive impact of corruption on institutional integrity and society’s moral foundations, but also warranted serious reflection on one’s faith, principles and values.

Tuanku Muhriz made the remarks at the investiture ceremony of state awards, medals and honours held in conjunction with his 78th birthday at Istana Besar Seri Menanti today.

Also in attendance was the Tunku Ampuan Besar of Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Aishah Rohani Almarhum Tengku Besar Mahmud.

During the ceremony, Tuanku Muhriz commended the Negri Sembilan state government led by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, as well as federal and state civil servants and security forces, for their loyalty and dedication.

He congratulated the state government on its recognition as the country’s most progressive state last year and for achievements at both national and international levels.

Tuanku Muhriz also noted that the state government had maintained prudent financial management, with positive revenue and expenditure performance and a budget focused on public wellbeing, reflecting strong governance, integrity and efficiency.

He further expressed appreciation to the private sector, non-governmental organisations and the public for their continued support in advancing the state’s development.

The ruler reminded recipients of state awards, medals and honours that they bear the responsibility of upholding the dignity of these honours through exemplary conduct, ethics and personal character.

At the ceremony, Tunku Kecil Muda Tunku Datuk Mahmood Fawzy Tunku Muhiyiddin led the list of 532 recipients, receiving the Seri Setia Tuanku Muhriz (SSTM) award, which carries the title Datuk Seri.

Auditor General Datuk Seri Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi was conferred the Seri Setia Negeri Sembilan (SSNS) award, which also carries the title Datuk Seri.

Main image: Jabatan Penerangan Negeri Sembilan.