Negeri Sembilan exco overstepped its powers by suspending two top officials, says AGC

KUALA LUMPUR, Sep 23 — The AGC has asserted that the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council lacks the legal authority to suspend the duties of the state secretary and state legal adviser. The AGC explained that such appointment matters are governed by the Public Services Commission and the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, as outlined in Article 37 of the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution 1959.

The AGC expressed concern over the Menteri Besar's media statement on Sept 22, 2026, suspending the state secretary and legal adviser immediately. They emphasized that the appointment of a new legal adviser must adhere to the stipulations of Article 37, which mandates appointment by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission from within the Judicial and Legal Service.

On September 23, Negeri Sembilan's Menteri Besar, Datuk Ismail Lasim, announced the immediate suspension of duties for state secretary Datuk Mohd Zafir Ibrahim and state legal adviser Datuk Muzalmah Mustapha Kamal. In the meantime, Datuk Masri Razali will temporarily handle the duties of the state secretary until a new appointment is made by the Chief Secretary to the Government.

Advocate and solicitor Fahmi Adilah will take on legal advisory responsibilities until the new state legal adviser is appointed by the AGC.