The prolonged constitutional and adat crisis in Negri Sembilan has prompted calls from the state branch of the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) for a swift resolution to prevent disruption to the state administration and public services. In a statement issued following a PKR leadership meeting on Tuesday night, the party highlighted concerns over leadership uncertainty and the stalled decision-making process, which it said risked causing confusion among civil servants, investors, local authorities, and the general public.
PKR emphasized that the ongoing crisis should not paralyse the state administration or burden the people, warning that it could negatively impact economic activities. The party pointed out that the absence of appointments to the state executive council could delay critical matters requiring state authority approval, including investments, land approvals and transfers, as well as project implementations.
“This deadlock could undermine investor confidence, disrupt operations for landowners and businesses, and ultimately threaten job opportunities and the people’s income,” the statement said. The party called for the appointment of local councillors and members of the village development and security committees as soon as possible, noting their importance as conduits between the state government and the grassroots population.
PKR also expressed disappointment over the actions and stance of Mentri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim, which it said appeared to contradict a decree issued by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. The party reaffirmed its loyalty and support to Tuanku Muhriz, underscoring respect for the royal institution within the framework of the state constitution and laws.
The party urged political leaders to exercise caution and avoid rhetoric that might escalate tensions, recommending that constitutional and legal processes be allowed to resolve the crisis.
On the same day, Tuanku Muhriz met with Ismail in a private audience lasting around three hours. While details of the meeting were not disclosed, it was believed to have aimed at addressing the ongoing customary and constitutional issues facing the state. No official statement followed the meeting.
The crisis centers around questions of constitutional authority and adat, the traditional customary laws that influence governance in Negri Sembilan, raising broader concerns about state administrative continuity, economic stability, and public welfare. Stakeholders continue to monitor developments as efforts to resolve the diplomatic deadlock proceed.