‘As of today, I’m still MB’: Ismail Lasim sidesteps questions over Negri Sembilan leadership

Seremban, November 7 — Negri Sembilan Chief Minister Datuk Ismail Lasim has declined to comment on speculation surrounding his potential replacement by Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias, stating he remains in office amid political uncertainty. Ismail, a Juasseh assemblyman, also sidestepped questions about the possibility of postponing the state legislative assembly sitting on November 26.

"As of today, I am still the menteri besar," Ismail told reporters, asserting there was no intention of stepping down, but offered no further details on the matter. When questioned about the possible delay in the assembly sitting, Ismail reiterated, "Let's not get into that. Let's celebrate Deepavali first." The speculation has arisen only three months after Ismail took office on August 2, after BN secured 18 seats in the state election, PH 11, and PN 7.

The ongoing uncertainty stems from the government's failure to finalize the executive council appointment, and questions persist regarding the scheduling of the next assembly meeting. Last month, Jalaluddin, who leads Negri Sembilan Umno, denied claims he intended to propose a no-confidence motion against Ismail at the upcoming assembly session, stating no discussions on such a matter had taken place.

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi also pledged not to support a no-confidence motion if one were proposed. The assembly sitting, originally set for October 16, was rescheduled to November 26 to align with the state's 2027 budget tabling the following day. However, opposition parties have raised concerns over whether the required 28-day notice period can be met.

Ismail previously mentioned that the proposed sitting dates were contingent on approval from Negri Sembilan's Yang di-Pertuan Besar, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.