Jalaluddin denies plot to oust Negeri Sembilan MB, says no-confidence vote never discussed

Seremban, November 7 — Negeri Sembilan Umno chief Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias has refuted allegations of conspiring to remove Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim. He stated that no discussion on a no-confidence vote was held during a recent meeting of the state Umno leadership, dismissing reports to the contrary. According to Utusan Malaysia, Jalaluddin made these comments following a liaison committee meeting in Seremban.

"You haven't heard me say I intend to remove the menteri besar, have you?" he asked, emphasizing that he clarified this earlier. He also addressed recent claims that a decision on a no-confidence vote would be made, insisting that "this has not happened." Meanwhile, Ismail Lasim has declined to comment on the speculation of Jalaluddin potentially replacing him as menteri besar.

Upon becoming the state's Chief Minister on August 2, Ismail provided no additional clarification on the circulating concerns. Speculation surrounding a possible leadership dispute emerged last month, following a report by FMT, which cited an unnamed source claiming that Negeri Sembilan Umno was contemplating a no-confidence motion against Ismail.

Jalaluddin debunked this claim, while Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi vowed to thwart any such attempt. These recent rumors follow Ismail's swearing-in three months prior, after the state election where Barisan Nasional secured 18 seats, Pakatan Harapan 11, and Perikatan Nasional 7. Jalaluddin also denied suggestions of distinct factions within Negeri Sembilan Umno, urging assemblymen to set aside internal perceptions and concentrate on their duties towards constituents.

He urged state leaders to support each other rather than engage in disputes that could divert from the administration's work. Regarding his meeting with the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, Jalaluddin clarified that the encounter took place at the ruler's request. He affirmed his willingness to comply whenever summoned by the ruler, both in his capacity as party leader and as a subject.

Jalaluddin expressed optimism that the state's political tensions could be alleviated promptly if all parties collaborated to foster unity.