“That is what must be given priority and, insya-Allah, following the lengthy discussion, there will be an approach to ensure the government continues to function as usual in the interests of the people,” he told reporters after the meeting.

Asked how the state administration would function without members of the State Executive Council (Exco), Jalaluddin said there were various methods that could be adopted.

“There are various methods that can be used, and surely, the Menteri Besar has a certain formula to mobilise the government machinery so that the agenda concerning the people’s interests can continue,” he said.

Jalaluddin, who is also the Pertang assemblyman, said tonight’s meeting was also attended by BN and Perikatan Nasional backbenchers’ chairmen, while he attended in his capacity as Negeri Sembilan UMNO Liaison Committee chairman.

Among those present at the special meeting, which lasted over two hours, were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim, who is also the Juasseh assemblyman; Chembong assemblyman Datuk Zaifulbahri Idris; Linggi assemblyman Datuk Mohd Faizal Ramli; and Sikamat assemblyman Datuk Razali Abu Samah.

Earlier, Ahmad Zahid said the special meeting was held to coordinate and identify the best options in accordance with the state constitution and customary laws.

He also gave full mandate to Ismail to seek the best solution, including by meeting the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, the Undang Yang Empat and Tunku Besar Tampin, as well as other leaders within the customary hierarchy.

Ahmad Zahid also said there was no need to declare a political emergency as the security and public order situation in the state remained under control.

-- BERNAMA