Tuanku Muhriz: Customs cannot be defended by breaching the rules

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14 — The Tuanku Muhriz Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir, Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, emphasized during a recent address that customs cannot be defended by bypassing the rules that govern them. Specifically, he was addressing those who have questioned the rules of succession in recent months. While delivering this message at the Istana Besar Seri Menanti, where the 17th Undang of Luak Jelebu was being invested, Tuanku Muhriz stressed the importance of maintaining Negeri Sembilan's constitutional monarchy, adat, and legal provisions together.

He reminded everyone that the system of constitutional monarchy in Malaysia grants the Ruler the position of Head of State; however, this position is bound by the Constitution and the law. The Ruler, therefore, serves to unify and stabilize governance. Emphasizing the need for dignity, integrity, justice, and responsibility, Tuanku Muhriz highlighted that the integrity of the Ruler's institution must be upheld by respecting the principles of the Undang Yang Empat, Lembaga, Ibu Soko, Buapak, and anak buah.

Tuanku Muhriz insisted that any disputes regarding the throne's position or succession must be resolved according to custom and law, not based on personal interests or whims. Naming no party, he cautioned that those who have recently taken actions to defend customs by breaking their own rules could harm the standing of the customary and royal institutions, jeopardize the state's stability, and undermine public trust.

He cautioned that such actions could tarnish the monarchy's image and erode people's confidence in the institution.

Tuanku Muhriz quoted a Malay proverb, “Raja adil raja disembah, raja zalim raja disanggah,” which translates to “a just ruler is revered, an unjust ruler is opposed,” emphasizing that justice and integrity must always guide leadership. He urged Negeri Sembilan citizens to learn from history, not allowing self-interest to override truth and justice in a way that jeopardizes security, well-being, and a heritage passed down through generations.

Tuanku Muhriz firmly stated that customs are not mere inheritances to be cherished but a trust that needs responsible preservation and defense. The future and stability of Negeri Sembilan, he concluded, hinge on everyone's commitment to respect custom, obey the law, and prioritize the state's interests over personal interests for the sake of future generations.