{
  "id": 16427436,
  "title": "‘I have not resigned’: Ismail Lasim dismisses exit rumours, says focus is on Negeri Sembilan Budget 2027",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/25/i-have-not-resigned-ismail-lasim-dismisses-exit-rumours-says-focus-is-16427436",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-25T03:55:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Malay Mail",
    "slug": "malay-mail-malaymail",
    "url": "https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/10/25/i-have-not-resigned-ismail-lasim-dismisses-exit-rumours-says-focus-is-on-negeri-sembilan-budget-2027/240513"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Seremban, Oct 25 — Negeri Sembilan Chief Minister Datuk Ismail Lasim has dismissed rumors of his departure from office, assuring that his primary focus remains on preparing the state's 2027 Budget, set to be presented at the end of next month. When confronted by a Chinese-language newspaper alleging he had signed a resignation letter, Ismail categorically denied the claim, stating to Harian Metro (HM) that he had not resigned. He reiterated his commitment to the task at hand, expressing his full dedication to formulating a budget that would benefit the state's population of over 1.2 million residents and nearly 6,000 civil servants. Ismail's current engagements are reportedly centered around meetings, stakeholder consultations, and reviews of proposals and feedback, all aimed at shaping the state's financial plans. Despite the speculation surrounding his position, Ismail declined to provide any additional details.",
  "summary": "SEREMBAN, Oct 25 — Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim has dismissed speculation that he is stepping...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}