UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is set to hold talks with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to address the unfolding political situation in Negeri Sembilan, following a dramatic withdrawal of support by Barisan Nasional (BN) assemblymen.
Zahid, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, said the meeting will focus on the decision by 14 BN state assemblymen to pull their backing from Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, a move that has triggered uncertainty in the state’s administration. The development reflects the fluid dynamics of coalition politics, particularly at the state level.
He noted that discussions with Anwar, who is also the president of Pakatan Harapan (PH), could take place at any time. “I need to meet him, and he needs to meet me,” Zahid told reporters when asked about the issue involving the Negeri Sembilan government.
In addition, Zahid said he plans to meet all the involved assemblymen to obtain a clearer understanding of their decision. He stressed that his schedule remains open for them to come forward at any time. “They can meet me today or later. I am available to hear them out,” he said during a session with media editors.
He added that UMNO and BN’s national leadership will thoroughly review the move made by the state representatives and assess its broader political implications. Such developments, he indicated, require careful consideration to ensure alignment with the coalition’s overall direction.
Earlier, all 14 UMNO and BN assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan unanimously declared a loss of confidence in Aminuddin’s leadership and withdrew their support, citing issues surrounding the current administration. An official notice is expected to be submitted to the State Legislative Assembly Speaker and secretary.
Meanwhile, Aminuddin announced during a press conference that he had been instructed by the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, to continue administering the state. He assured that the government would function as usual to safeguard public interests.
When asked whether the issue could affect the stability of the federal Unity Government, Zahid said the matter would be carefully studied and deliberated upon at the UMNO Political Bureau and Supreme Council levels before any decision is made.
“We must distinguish the customary system practised in the state. The decision made by the UMNO assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan is their own,” he said, reiterating that the national leadership will evaluate both the decision and its possible political consequences.
On Perikatan Nasional’s expressed willingness to collaborate with UMNO to form a new state government, Zahid remarked that such manoeuvres are typical in politics, where parties continuously seek opportunities to strengthen their position and ensure survival.
Earlier, Zahid and the UMNO leadership held a meeting with senior media editors ahead of the party’s upcoming 80th anniversary celebrations.
