Negeri Sembilan rulers' positions are sovereign powers, not just customary, lawyer says

The positions of the rulers in Negeri Sembilan, comprising the Yang Dipertuan Besar, the Undang yang Empat, and the Tunku Besar Tampin, are not merely traditional or customary roles. Senior lawyer Mohd Zainuddin Omar emphasized that these individuals are the supreme governing authorities of the state, operating under established laws and protected by both the Federal Constitution and the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution.

During the recent Negeri Sembilan state election campaign, some parties reportedly attempted to link customary crises with the position of the ruling institution. Mohd Zainuddin clarified that the status of the rulers is that of sovereign power, enshrined in the state's constitution, and cannot be arbitrarily altered or interfered with by partisan politics. This understanding differs from the common perception of 'adat' (custom) within Malay culture, particularly the Adat Perpatih system practiced in Negeri Sembilan.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously cautioned all participants in the Negeri Sembilan election to refrain from playing on sensitive issues related to royalty, race, and religion (3R). He stressed that while political competition is a part of democracy, it must be conducted with decorum, avoiding slander and the incitement of societal division.

Mohd Zainuddin further explained that when a local custom or practice, including traditional ceremonies, is elevated and codified into law, it ceases to be merely a custom. It becomes a legitimate law within the national legal system, carrying full legal force and enforceability. This legal recognition underscores the distinct and protected status of the ruling institution in Negeri Sembilan.