Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir has returned to Negri Sembilan, reaffirming his position as the legitimate Yang di-Pertuan Besar amid ongoing disputes over the state's leadership. The Ruler arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on the evening of September 17, where he was greeted by nearly 200 supporters. Expressing gratitude for their backing, Tuanku Muhriz stated his intention to resolve the state's leadership crisis.

"Thank you for your support. I am returning to the palace. Where else can I go to? I am back to resolve this matter, Insyallah," he said as cheers of “Daulat Tuanku” rang out.

The controversy stems from a recent decision by the Negri Sembilan state executive council, made on September 16, which declared the appointment of a new Yang di-Pertuan Besar. This move has been challenged by the Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU), the council of traditional leaders tasked with advising on matters of succession and customary laws in the state.

Raja Norazli Raja Nordin, the DKU secretary, emphasized that the state executive council and the state government lack the authority to validate or revoke the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar. He stated that the DKU’s guidance on such issues is final and legally binding, cannot be questioned or overturned by any court.

He further clarified that the customary institutions of Negri Sembilan, including those of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar and the Undang, belong to the people and heirs of the state rather than any political entity or individual. Accordingly, Raja Norazli described the state executive council’s proclamation as constitutionally and legally invalid, asserting it was beyond the council’s jurisdiction.

The secretary also noted that the proclamation issued on April 19, which sought to remove Tuanku Muhriz from his position, was flawed. No official inquiry was conducted prior to the proclamation, and three of the four signatories did not hold the required offices at that time. Moreover, the then Mentri Besar’s refusal to approve the removal rendered the proclamation null and void, according to Raja Norazli.

The DKU welcomed recent remarks from the Mentri Besar, who confirmed his lack of unilateral power to terminate or vacate the office of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar. The statement supports the DKU’s position that any attempt to remove Tuanku Muhriz without following due process is invalid.

As developments continue, Tuanku Muhriz’s return is significant in affirming his claim and addressing the ongoing challenges regarding leadership legitimacy in Negri Sembilan.