Anwar: Negeri Sembilan MB, executive council’s bid to remove ruler was ‘rude and uncivilised’

In Hangzhou, on September 23, 2026, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim spoke out against the Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar and State Executive Council for their attempt to remove Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz. Anwar described their actions as "rude" and "uncivilised", asserting that no state-level authority possesses the authority to question or change the position of the Ruler.

The Menteri Besar and the executive council's decision was "a rude step, uncivilised, and I strongly object," Anwar proclaimed from his high-speed train journey to Hangzhou.

Anwar highlighted the complexity of the crisis within Negeri Sembilan, where the administration and customary authority had become entangled. He emphasized that the federal government was not meddling in the matter and clarified that removing a Ruler is a complicated matter. Following a court ruling affirming Tuanku Muhriz's lawful status as Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Anwar met with the Ruler.

Anwar pointed out that the Undang Luak (traditional laws) hold the authority to decide the Ruler's position, but their decisions are not absolute and must adhere to established procedures.

The Prime Minister underscored the importance of upholding national institutions and security, which falls under the federal government's purview. Anwar stressed that conflicting claims among the Undang Luak must be resolved before any decision can be deemed valid. He noted that decisions made by a properly appointed Undang following the correct process would be outside the federal government's jurisdiction.