SNAPSHOT | Anwar denies Putrajaya meddling in N Sembilan crisis; group urges review to FOI bill

Pendang, September 26 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reiterated that he would not interfere in matters related to the position of the Yang Di Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan. He emphasized that any disputes involving the royal institution must be resolved according to the Constitution and the law, as part of the constitutional monarchy system in the country. "I am not interfering," Anwar stated during his speech at the Sebarkan Salam dan Pendang Berselawat Bersama Anwar Ibrahim programme.

Anwar clarified that while the Undangs (royal council) made a decision, it was necessary to decide what was valid and what was invalid in the context of the Ruler's position. He warned against undermining the institution, stating that any action to remove or depose a Ruler should not be taken lightly and must adhere to the conditions and processes outlined in the state Constitution.

"Discuss it amicably. I do not agree with overthrowing a Ruler so easily," he said, highlighting that Malaysia's constitutional monarchy framework places the royal institution within constitutional provisions.

The Prime Minister and Cabinet also operate within power limits defined by the Constitution, he added. "The Prime Minister is the chief executive administering the country. What is his limit? He cannot amend the Constitution regarding Islam, the Malay language, the rights of all Malays and the Rulers," Anwar emphasized, defending the principle to prevent erosion of the constitutional monarchy system.

Stressing the importance of the constitutional monarchy, Anwar noted that if the system were easily undermined, the royal system would cease to exist in the country. However, he acknowledged the desire of many Malaysians, including those from different ethnic backgrounds, to protect this system. "If we, as Malays, are divided even over the Malay Rulers as a pillar of our system, how can we expect others to respect us?" he questioned.

In addition to his remarks, Anwar announced an additional RM2.8 million allocation to repair basic infrastructure at 14 Islamic educational institutions across Kedah.