FORMER Rembau MP Khairy Jamaluddin has asserted that Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir remains the legitimate Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, citing constitutional provisions amid an unfolding royal and customary dispute in the state.
Khairy said his position is based on Article 10(2) of the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution, which outlines the process required when a reigning monarch is requested to step aside from carrying out royal duties.
He explained that under the provision, the ruler must cease performing official functions once such a request is made, but only after a formal declaration is issued and duly signed by the four Undangs and the Menteri Besar.
“From my understanding of both the law and the adat governing the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, Tuanku Muhriz remains the lawful ruler today, even though a proclamation has taken place,” he said.
Khairy made the remarks during an episode of the Keluar Sekejap podcast, which he co-hosts with Shahril Sufian Hamdan, earlier this week.
He also expressed concern over attempts to politicise the crisis, warning that political interference could undermine public confidence in the monarchy.
“It is better for political parties to stay out of this entirely. This issue is already affecting public perception, and it is not appropriate for political actors to intervene in such a complex matter involving both constitutional law and adat,” he added.
The controversy follows reports that a recent installation ceremony for the 12th Yang di-Pertuan Besar, held at a hotel in Alor Gajah, Melaka, has been deemed invalid and not recognised under the state’s constitution, laws, and customs.
In a statement, Istana officials said the title claimed by Tunku Datuk Seri Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar carries no legal standing.
The ongoing dispute has pushed Negeri Sembilan into uncharted territory, with the state appearing to face an unprecedented situation involving rival claims to its royal leadership. – June 11, 2026
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