Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias has denied claims that he is positioning himself to become Menteri Besar following the withdrawal of support by Barisan Nasional (BN) against the leadership of Aminuddin Harun.
Jalaluddin, who is also BN chairman for Negeri Sembilan, stressed that the appointment of a Menteri Besar is not decided by political parties, but by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. He dismissed speculation over leadership ambitions, saying he already holds a senior EXCO position and that the focus is not on personal political advancement.
“This is not our objective. I am already a senior EXCO member and I am not aiming to become Menteri Besar,” he said at a press conference at the Negeri Sembilan UMNO headquarters. He added that several others within BN are also qualified for the role, but reiterated that the final decision rests with the palace.
Jalaluddin also confirmed that BN has submitted a request to meet the state ruler to formally explain the party’s decision to withdraw support from the current Menteri Besar. However, he said no audience has been granted yet and he is ready to meet the ruler at any time.
On suggestions that the state government could continue operating for up to six months before the next State Legislative Assembly sitting, Jalaluddin disagreed, saying a special sitting should be convened sooner to restore political stability.
He warned that allowing the situation to continue without resolution would lead to uncertainty in governance and administrative difficulties. According to him, a special DUN sitting is necessary to address the political crisis and ensure the state returns to a stable footing.
