Zahid: Understand Constitution before branding actions ‘treasonous’ or ‘disrespectful’

MELAKA INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTRE, AYER KEROH, MELAKA, 26 SEPTEMBER 2026 —

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi urged political leaders and the public to fully comprehend the constitutional roles of royal institutions and state administrations before labeling any actions as “treasonous” or “disrespectful.”

He warned against allowing emotional labels to precede a factual understanding of the circumstances, stating that the primary duty of leadership is to clear up confusion through knowledge and wisdom while safeguarding the dignity of institutions.

The remarks come amid a significant constitutional dispute in Negeri Sembilan involving the state administration and the royal institution. The controversy has sparked intense debate over the respective powers and responsibilities of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, the Menteri Besar, and the state executive council under the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution.

The dispute intensified after questions arose regarding decisions involving the position of Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir and the authority of the state administration.

According to Berita Harian, Ahmad Zahid stressed that the rights of all citizens, as guaranteed under the Constitution, must also be considered in this context. He cautioned against the use of inflammatory language, specifically citing remarks such as “no manners, no civilisation,” which he argued are counterproductive to resolving institutional conflicts. “Do not let labels such as ‘treasonous’ and ‘disrespectful’ come before an understanding of the actual circumstances,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Barisan Nasional chairman and Umno president, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to upholding the royal institution and the constitutional order. He highlighted the importance of respecting the pardon powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Malay rulers, as provided for under the Constitution.

He noted that political differences should not erode respect for the royal institution, and that respect for the Constitution must remain firm even when a specific decision does not accord with one’s personal or political wishes.

The legal dimensions of the Negeri Sembilan dispute have become increasingly complex, with the Attorney General’s Chambers weighing in on several legal issues arising from the conflict. A development occurred when Tuanku Muhriz revoked the appointments of the state executive councillors effective September 20, acting under the provisions of the state constitution. This move has further polarized the debate over the limits of executive power versus royal prerogative in the state.

Ahmad Zahid previously stated that the dispute should be resolved through Negeri Sembilan’s customary institutions and the existing constitutional framework. He stressed that Umno would not interfere in the matter, maintaining a stance of non-intervention while advocating for a resolution grounded in legal and constitutional principles. His comments at the Melaka event reinforced this position, urging a return to principle over political posturing.

The Deputy Prime Minister’s intervention highlights the delicate balance required in Malaysia’s federal system, where state constitutions often grant unique powers to local rulers that differ from the federal framework. By calling for an understanding of these nuances, Ahmad Zahid is attempting to steer the discourse away from partisan attacks and toward a legalistic resolution.

The emphasis on “wisdom” and “knowledge” suggests a strategy to de-escalate tensions by framing the issue as a matter of constitutional literacy rather than political loyalty.

As the Negeri Sembilan crisis continues, the actions of the Attorney General’s Chambers and the royal institution will likely determine the next phase of the dispute. The revocation of the state executive councillors’ appointments on September 20 marks a significant escalation, potentially leading to further legal challenges or political maneuvers.

Ahmad Zahid’s call for firmness in defending principles while fairly respecting rights sets the tone for how major political parties may approach similar constitutional questions in the future.

The broader implication of these remarks is a reinforcement of the constitutional monarchy’s role in Malaysian governance. By linking the dispute to the broader concept of “Tanah Melayu” (Malaya) in the event’s title, Ahmad Zahid contextualizes the Negeri Sembilan issue within the historical and constitutional foundations of the nation. This approach aims to unify the political narrative around the protection of institutions rather than the defeat of political opponents.

Market observers and policy analysts note that stability in the constitutional order is a key factor for investor confidence in Malaysia. While the Negeri Sembilan dispute is primarily a political and legal matter, its resolution will signal the strength of the country’s institutional frameworks. The involvement of high-level figures like the Deputy Prime Minister and the Attorney General’s Chambers indicates that the issue has moved beyond a local state matter to a national constitutional concern.

Ahmad Zahid’s statement serves as a reminder that the Malaysian political system relies on the mutual respect between elected governments and royal institutions. By urging leaders to manage differences wisely, he is advocating for a model of governance that prioritizes constitutional integrity over partisan gain. The outcome of the Negeri Sembilan dispute will be closely watched as a test case for the resilience of Malaysia’s constitutional order in the face of political pressure.

The Deputy Prime Minister’s comments were made during a national consultation event, underscoring the significance of the issue to the broader political community. The event, titled “Membongkar Polemik Tanah Melayu” (Unraveling the Malayan Polemic), suggests a deliberate effort to address the root causes of the conflict through dialogue and education. This approach aligns with Ahmad Zahid’s broader political strategy of positioning Umno as a guardian of constitutional norms and royal dignity.

As the dispute unfolds, the focus will remain on the legal interpretations of the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution and the actions of the relevant institutions. The revocation of the state executive councillors’ appointments by Tuanku Muhriz remains a central point of contention, with both sides likely to seek legal clarification or judicial review.

Ahmad Zahid’s call for an understanding of the Constitution before making accusations provides a framework for future discourse, encouraging a more measured and informed approach to political disagreements.

The situation in Negeri Sembilan highlights the complexities of Malaysia’s federal structure, where state-level constitutional issues can have national repercussions. The involvement of the Attorney General’s Chambers and the high-profile nature of the dispute indicate that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness by the federal government. Ahmad Zahid’s remarks reflect a desire to maintain stability and respect for institutions, which are essential for the country’s political and economic stability.

In conclusion, the Deputy Prime Minister’s intervention in the Negeri Sembilan dispute shows the importance of constitutional literacy in Malaysian politics. By urging leaders to understand the roles and responsibilities of royal institutions and state administrations, he is advocating for a resolution that is grounded in law and principle.

The outcome of this dispute will have significant implications for the balance of power between elected governments and royal institutions in Malaysia, and for the broader stability of the country’s political system.

Related: Attorney General’s Chambers · Ahmad Zahid Hamidi