PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim strongly objected to the actions of the Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar and former State Executive Council members—who allegedly questioned the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir—describing the move as rude and uncivilised.
He stated that while the Federal Government does not interfere in the affairs of the Malay Rulers, it bears the responsibility of ensuring national security and the integrity of institutions, and seeing that all actions regarding state governance are carried out in accordance with the Constitution and established regulations.
“What I find most unreasonable is that the Menteri Besar and the former State Executive Council (Exco) are the ones making the decision. This is an insolent and uncivilised move, and I strongly object to it.
“Since when did they have the mandate to question the position of the Ruler?” he told the media while travelling to Hangzhou on a high-speed rail (HSR) service from Shanghai.
According to RTM, Anwar noted that the situation would be different if the Undang Luak or relevant parties were to present their views or use appropriate channels based on valid grounds and legal provisions.
He said that any decision made must go through the proper process and possess a valid legal basis.
The Prime Minister also emphasised that the position of the Rulers cannot be challenged or altered through decisions made by the Menteri Besar and the State Exco.
“The institution of the Malay Rulers is meant to be upheld, not dismantled. If this precedent is set—where a Menteri Besar and Exco can simply make such decisions—where did they learn this from?” he asked.
Anwar stated that the Federal Government must also adhere to the principle that the Prime Minister, as the nation's Chief Executive, remains bound by the Constitution and cannot interfere in the affairs of the Rulers.
He emphasised that while the Prime Minister may submit certain matters for the Conference of Rulers' consideration, the decisions made by that institution cannot be influenced by the government.
“The Prime Minister does not influence the decisions made by the Conference of Rulers,” he stated.
Anwar stated that the same principle applies to the situation in Negeri Sembilan, including the need to respect the jurisdiction and processes established by the Constitution.
"I want to ensure the Constitution is respected and there is no questioning of the position of the Rulers," he said. – September 23, 2026
