G25: Resolve Negri Sembilan crisis according to Constitution, law

KUALA LUMPUR: G25 Malaysia today issued a statement demanding the preservation of the Federal and State Constitutions, as well as the rule of law, in addressing the situation concerning the position of Negri Sembilan's Yang Dipertuan Besar, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. The civil society organization firmly endorsed Tuanku Muhriz's lawful constitutional standing while emphasizing that any challenge to his position must be handled strictly in accordance with the State Constitution, traditional laws (adat), and the law itself.

G25 expressed its concern over the matter, stating that calling for the removal of a ruler constitutes a grave offense: treason, a crime punishable by a mandatory minimum of 30 years and a maximum of 40 years in prison under Section 121B of the Penal Code. Furthermore, the act was deemed a crime of sedition under Section 4 of the Sedition Act of 1948.

The group urged law enforcement agencies, including the Attorney-General, to take a strong stance against any acts of treason and sedition, particularly those committed openly, publicly, and shamelessly, irrespective of the perpetrator's status.

The organization stressed the need to vigilantly uphold the sanctity of the Federal and State Constitutions and the rule of law, as the gradual collapse of law and order is a growing issue that has already begun to manifest. G25 clarified that the menteri besar and members of the state executive council do not possess unilateral authority to terminate or vacate the ruler's office. The proclamation's validity and impact must be determined through lawful constitutional and legal procedures.

G25 also called upon the menteri besar to clarify his assertion that he was coerced into signing the purported proclamation on August 3, including the identity of the alleged perpetrator. Additionally, the group requested an explanation for the contradictory position he adopted on September 16, asserting the validity of the proclamation. These inconsistencies must be addressed, as the public has a right to know the truth.