THE Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, has voiced strong concern over the rising prevalence of corruption and expressed disappointment that some members of society continue to support individuals convicted of graft-related offences.
Describing corruption as the foremost enemy of justice, trust and the nation’s future, Tuanku Muhriz said he was shocked and disheartened by attitudes that appear to excuse or forgive serious corruption.
“Such attitudes reflect not only a failure to grasp the destructive impact of corruption on institutional integrity and society’s moral foundations, but also call for serious reflection on one’s faith, principles and values.”
He made the remarks during the investiture ceremony of state awards, medals and honours held in conjunction with his 78th birthday at Istana Besar Seri Menanti. Also in attendance was the Tunku Ampuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Aishah Rohani Almarhum Tengku Besar Mahmud.
Tuanku Muhriz urged those who continue to rally behind 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.
At the same event, His Royal Highness commended the Negeri 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.
“I would like to congratulate the state government on the recognition as the country’s most progressive state last year, as well as for the achievements at both national and international levels.
“I was also informed 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,” Bernama quoted him saying.
Tuanku Muhriz also expressed appreciation to the private sector, non-governmental organisations and members of the public for their continued support in advancing the state’s development.
In his royal address, the Ruler called for sustained efforts to address the cost of living, emphasising that no one should be left behind, particularly those from low- and middle-income groups.
He said progress in reducing extreme poverty must be maintained through targeted assistance, effective price controls, strengthened food security and the systematic expansion of income-generating opportunities.
“I call upon the people to practise prudent spending, enhance their knowledge and skills, and support state government initiatives.
“At the same time, as a key thrust to improve the quality of life, the government must intensify the provision of healthcare facilities and enhance the quality of health services,” Tuanku Muhriz said.
He also expressed hope that the proposed construction of the Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia Hospital in Nilai would receive due consideration, noting its potential to strengthen healthcare services in the state alongside the upgrading and expansion of Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital in Seremban.
On education, Tuanku Muhriz said Negeri Sembilan’s performance has shown encouraging improvement, reflecting sustained commitment from all parties, and should be further strengthened alongside efforts to nurture strong character and moral values.
“I am deeply concerned about the increasingly worrying social problems affecting the younger generation today, including drug abuse, gang activity and various negative behaviours which could jeopardise their future.”
He stressed that education remains the most important foundation in shaping children’s character and identity, and expressed support for the ongoing efforts of the Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Council in implementing the Aulad Sejahtera Module at the preschool level, which focuses on instilling noble values in daily life.
Tuanku Muhriz also highlighted the importance of participation in associations, clubs and uniformed bodies at the secondary education level, saying such involvement helps build identity, character and leadership skills while instilling discipline, social responsibility and a culture of volunteerism.
In closing, the Ruler once again underscored the importance of unity, describing it as the willingness to understand, respect and cooperate with one another despite differences in race, religion and background.
“I am confident that a comprehensive and continuous education approach, grounded in the implementation of the Aulad Sejahtera Module as the foundation for values formation, will produce a future generation imbued with a strong sense of unity.”
Tuanku Muhriz emphasised that this call applies to all levels of society, in both rural and urban areas and across all communities, stressing that collective efforts are essential to guide and educate the younger generation as future leaders for a more prosperous state and nation. - January 14, 2026
