Anwar Reaffirms Non-Interference in Negeri Sembilan Royal Dispute

KEDAH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated that he will not interfere in matters concerning the position of the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, stressing that any dispute involving the royal institution must be resolved in accordance with the Federal Constitution, state Constitution,  and the law.

Anwar said Malaysia’s constitutional monarchy system does not allow arbitrary action against a ruler, adding that any decision concerning the royal institution must follow the constitutional provisions and established legal processes.

“I said I am not interfering. What am I interfering in? The Undangs made a decision. There are parties supporting them and giving their views, and there is no problem with that. I do not want to interfere.

“But even with the Undang, which is valid, which is invalid? Decide and resolve that,” he said during the Sebarkan Salam dan Pendang Berselawat Bersama Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim programme here on Friday night.

Anwar stressed that matters involving a ruler should not be taken lightly, particularly because Malaysia’s system of government places the royal institution within a constitutional framework.

He said any attempt to remove or depose a ruler must comply with the conditions and procedures stipulated under the relevant state constitution.

“Discuss it amicably. I do not agree with overthrowing a ruler so easily. Our system cannot work that way, which is why the Constitution is very clear,” he said.

The Prime Minister also pointed out that the powers of the Prime Minister and Cabinet are themselves subject to constitutional limitations.

“The prime minister is the chief executive administering the country. What is his limit? He cannot amend the Constitution regarding Islam, the Malay language, the rights of all Malays, and the rulers,” he said.

Anwar said adherence to constitutional principles was essential to safeguard Malaysia’s constitutional monarchy from actions taken outside established legal channels.

“If we can bring down a Ruler so easily, the royal system will cease to exist in our country,” he said.

He added that the issue should not be viewed solely through the lens of politics but rather as a matter concerning Malaysia’s constitutional system and institutions.

Anwar also called for restraint and unity, saying differences of opinion should not lead to division or undermine respect for the institution of the Malay rulers.

“If we, as Malays, are divided even over the Malay Rulers as a pillar of our system, how can we expect others to respect us?” he said.

He said hatred, anger, and differences of opinion could cause people to lose sound judgment, urging the matter to be handled responsibly and through the appropriate constitutional channels.

At the same event, Anwar announced an additional allocation of RM2.8 million for the repair of basic infrastructure at 14 Islamic educational institutions in Kedah.