Negeri Sembilan MB asserts Ruler needs his counsel on executive dismissals

KUALA LUMPUR — Negeri Sembilan's Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim has reaffirmed that the state's Ruler requires his counsel before dismissing members of the executive council, signalling a firm position in an apparent constitutional dispute. Lasim stated that the current executive team continues to hold office, suggesting no changes to the composition have taken effect. The assertion underscores disagreement between the state leadership and the palace over the constitutional procedures governing the removal of exco members. Under Malaysia's state constitutions, the appointment and removal of executive councillors typically requires the advice of the Menteri Besar, though specific provisions vary by state. Lasim's statement appears designed to establish clear parameters around the Ruler's executive powers and the Menteri Besar's advisory role in matters of state governance. The clarification comes amid what analysts suggest may be internal political tensions within Negeri Sembilan's administration, with the explicit reaffirmation of constitutional procedures potentially signalling efforts to prevent unilateral action from the palace.