Tuanku Muhriz: Customs cannot be defended by breaching the rules

On October 14, Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz, emphasized that customs cannot be defended by breaking their own rules. Addressing a ceremony marking the investiture of the 17th Undang of Luak Jelebu at Istana Besar Seri Menanti, Tuanku Muhriz stressed the importance of upholding Negeri Sembilan's constitutional monarchy, adat, and legal provisions together.

The Ruler, he explained, serves as the Head of State, but his powers are limited by the Constitution and the law, acting as a guarantor of unity and stability in governance. Negeri Sembilan's Adat Perpatih and legal provisions form the basis for the position and succession of the throne, making customary institutions vital for safeguarding custom and ensuring state stability.

Tuanku Muhriz urged that any disputes over the throne's position or succession must be settled according to custom and law, not personal interests or wishes. He warned that actions aimed at defending customs by violating their own rules could damage the institutions' standing, endanger the state's stability, and erode public trust.

The Ruler reminded that justice and integrity must always guide leadership, quoting the Malay saying, "Raja adil raja disembah, raja zalim raja disanggah." He encouraged Negeri Sembilan citizens to learn from history, respect custom responsibly, and prioritize the state's interests above personal ones for the sake of future generations.