State govt has no power to unilaterally remove Negri Ruler, says Ismail

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 25, 2026

The Negeri Sembilan state government stated it does not have the power to remove the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, emphasizing that only the traditional chiefs, the Undang, can select or depose the monarch under the state constitution and customary law. This clarification comes amid controversy over a disputed proclamation attempting to unseat the ruler, with the state urging adherence to legal and customary processes to resolve the matter.

The Negeri Sembilan state government has clarified that it lacks the authority to unilaterally remove the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, the state’s monarch, in response to recent controversy and remarks from Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Mentri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim emphasized that the selection and removal of the ruler fall under the jurisdiction of the state's traditional institutions and constitution.

At a press conference in Seremban, Ismail addressed criticism from Anwar, who labeled the actions of the Mentri Besar and the state executive council (exco) as insolent and uncivilized. Ismail maintained that neither he nor the exco claimed the power to depose the monarch, noting that Negeri Sembilan’s unique monarchy operates under the provisions of the state constitution and the customary law known as Adat Perpatih.

“The state government does not have the power to unilaterally remove the Yang di-Pertuan Besar,” Ismail said, clarifying that the executive council’s role had only been to discuss the administration’s response to a proclamation allegedly issued by the four Undang, traditional chiefs who play a key role in selecting the ruler.

Ismail further stated that the proclamation’s validity and the procedures followed should be examined under the state constitution and through appropriate legal channels. He affirmed the state government's respect for any existing court orders related to the matter.

The controversy dates back to April 19, when Datuk Mubarak Dohak, who claims to be the Undang of Sungai Ujong, read a proclamation purportedly signed by all four Undang removing Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir from the throne. This proclamation was rejected by the previous Mentri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, the following day.

Ismail underscored that the Yang di-Pertuan Besar is chosen solely by the four Undang, and any changes to the position must follow both the constitutional framework and customary practices. He reiterated that the exco’s actions should not be misconstrued as an overstep of their constitutional role or an attempt to supplant the authority of the Undang.

The situation remains unresolved, with the Menteri Besar calling for adherence to established legal and customary procedures in addressing the dispute over the state’s royal leadership.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.