Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called for the ongoing dispute over the Negeri Sembilan rulership to be resolved through dialogue rather than litigation, saying negotiations offer the best path to preserving the dignity of the state’s royal institution.
Ahmad Zahid stressed that all parties should respect the authority of the Negeri Sembilan Council of Justice and Laws (DKU), which plays a central role in matters relating to the state’s unique constitutional monarchy.
“The way forward is to respect the existing sovereign institution of the DKU and, in my view, the best solution is through negotiations without the need to bring the matter before the courts,” he said.
His remarks come amid escalating tensions over the Negeri Sembilan succession issue, which has triggered legal challenges and differing interpretations over the appointment of the state’s ruler.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s call for dialogue follows Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s statement on June 5 that the federal government recognises Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan.
Anwar said Putrajaya remains committed to safeguarding the sovereignty and dignity of the Malay Rulers institution, while emphasising that all constitutional procedures and established regulations must be adhered to.
