Touching on the recent actions by Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ismail Lasim and the state executive councillors (Exco), he described their actions as a serious offence and completely unacceptable.

“And what I find most unreasonable is that the Menteri Besar and Exco made the decision. This is an uncivilised and disrespectful move, and I strongly object to it.

“Since when did they have the mandate to question the position of the Ruler?” Anwar told Malaysian media while travelling by high-speed train to Hangzhou to continue his three-day working visit, which began yesterday.

The Prime Minister said he did not understand the actions taken by the Menteri Besar and Exco on several matters involving the institution of the Rulers, which had sparked controversy in Negeri Sembilan.

“That can still be discussed and revoked, but I cannot imagine a Malay leader bringing a motion to remove a Malay Ruler. I cannot accept that at all,” he said when commenting on the controversy in Negeri Sembilan.

Yesterday, a special meeting of the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council (MMKN) decided to suspend the duties of State Secretary Datuk Mohd Zafir Ibrahim and State Legal Adviser Datuk Muzalmah Mustapha Kamal, with immediate effect.

“So, I want to stress that, to me, what they did is a serious offence, and as for the federal government, if you ask about its jurisdiction, we abide by the Constitution.

“If you tarnish and violate the Constitution, we will defend it. If I lead this country, I want to ensure that the Constitution is respected. I want to ensure there is no disrespect, including questioning the position of the Ruler,” said Anwar.

The controversy in Negeri Sembilan has resulted in a constitutional impasse over the position of the Yang Dipertuan Besar, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

-- BERNAMA