UNITY, harmony and mutual respect. These values which form the foundational pillars for a stable, progressive and peaceful society are often repeated by Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir whenever addressing his audience, defining both his reign and his relationship with his subjects.
Whether addressing politicians during the opening of the Negri Sembilan state legislative assembly, or Rotarians at a tea party, the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan who turns 78 today never fails to remind people of the power of unity, harmony and mutual respect, particularly in a multicultural nation like Malaysia.
The Ruler’s active participation in state-level celebrations, such as National Day, Maulidur Rasul, festive open houses and cultural festivals like Pesta Bola Ngoca – a village football game traditionally played in muddy paddy fields – as well as international events like Expo 2025 Osaka, drives home the message loud and clear: progress is strongest when unity is practised.
During his Hari Raya Aidilfitri address in March last year, the Ruler made a heartfelt call for the need to preserve unity, urging the rakyat to cherish the nation’s peace and stability by strengthening the spirit of brotherhood and shared humanity.
Tuanku Muhriz reminded the public that peace and harmony are sustained by prioritising human values and helping one another, drawing inspiration from Prophet Muhammad’s example of sincerity, compassion, care and fairness towards neighbours and the wider community, transcending religious boundaries.
The Ruler also urged the public to strengthen bonds through forgiveness, show care and kindness by helping those in need, respect the rule of law, and avoid divisive politics during last year’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
This call for a united society was reiterated during the state-level Maal Hijrah festivities, where Tuanku Muhriz highlighted the Prophet’s example of championing mutual respect, celebrating diversity and upholding the dignity and rights of every individual, regardless of background.
“Islam is a faith rooted in peace, compassion and the spirit of brotherhood. Through tolerance and understanding, the Prophet Muhammad successfully united Muslim and non-Muslim communities, laying the foundations for peace,” the Ruler said.
While expressing his utmost support for initiatives to uphold Islam, the Ruler stressed the importance of strengthening religious institutions and ensuring effective administration of Islamic affairs in the state.
Religious matters, Tuanku Muhriz said, must be referred to religious authorities, as individual or group interpretations could lead to confusion, tension and conflict within the community.
Concluding his message, the Ruler expressed confidence in the state leadership’s ability to uphold unity, placing harmony at the heart of governance. This reflects the Ruler’s consistent call for collective responsibility.
For Tuanku Muhriz, unity is not merely an ideal, but a shared duty to be carried out with commitment, integrity and purpose.
“While Islam holds a special position in this country, its honour must be upheld without denying fair and just treatment towards practitioners of other religions,” Tuanku Muhriz said.
Speaking at the Rotary Club of Nilai Central’s Unity High Tea late last year, the Ruler stated that sustainable development was impossible without unity, adding that progress could not be collectively achieved without mutual understanding.
Tuanku Muhriz noted with delight the mingling of communities from different ethnicities and religions at the event. The Ruler said that although Negri Sembilan is known for its unique customs and culture, what makes the state special is the harmony among its people.
Continuing his address, the Ruler urged all citizens to continue nurturing the spirit of togetherness that has long been part of the nation’s identity.
“Show our children that differences are not a reason to divide, but a strength to be celebrated.
“We must always remember that the prosperity of this state and nation does not lie solely in material wealth but in the strength of our relationships.
“When the people unite, we can face any challenge. Unity is the foundation of a nation,” the Ruler said.
As Chancellor of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), a tertiary institution established to strengthen the national identity and elevate Bahasa Melayu as a medium of instruction, Tuanku Muhriz constantly reminds Malaysians of the importance of mastering the national language.
However, the Ruler also highlighted the importance of equipping the younger generation with strong English communication skills to thrive globally while remaining rooted in Malaysian values.
Stressing that proficiency in English neither diminished national identity nor replaced mother tongues, the Ruler said it instead enhanced the ability to participate confidently on the global stage while remaining grounded in Malaysian values.
“Without neglecting the development of our national language, I encourage our schools, educators and parents to continue nurturing a love for the English language.
“Let us create learning environments where children feel confident to speak, inquire and express themselves,” Tuanku Muhriz said.
These words carry weight because the Ruler walks the talk and leads by example. His presence at events is never merely ceremonial.
The Ruler also constantly champions initiatives that advance the state and enhance the well-being of its people.
From economic milestones to educational initiatives, healthcare, culture, heritage and community welfare, the Ruler’s messages demonstrate care and a genuine concern for every citizen.
His speeches, imbued with wisdom and warmth, also reinforce the values of integrity and shared responsibility.
While the Ruler is known for his affable nature and his ability to connect with ordinary citizens, from the halls of power down to the streets, Tuanku Muhriz is all business when it comes to justice and will not mince his words.
In November, the Yang di-Pertuan Besar called for a swift response to objections raised over the appointment of a new member to the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), stressing the need to protect judicial independence.
Speaking at the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Negri Sembilan Bar, Tuanku Muhriz, who holds an LLB (Hons) degree from the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth (now Aberystwyth University), stressed that as the apex of the administration of justice, the judiciary must remain independent of external pressures.
“To ensure this, the process of the appointment of judges must be insulated from the influence of the executive arm of the government. I have, on prior occasions, spoken of the urgent need to reform the JAC.”
Continuing his speech, Tuanku Muhriz also cautioned lawyers against allowing the pursuit of commerce to overshadow the pursuit of justice.
“Integrity cannot be legislated. It cannot be enforced by committees or coaxed by regulation. Integrity must live within the conscience of each and every lawyer.”
The Ruler reminded lawyers that when they stood before the Court, they carried more than a client’s file.
“You bear the honour of your profession, the dignity of the Bar, and the moral expectations of society. Honesty, candour and ethical conduct are the true currency of your calling. Guard them jealously.”
The Ruler also gives praise where it is due.
Reflecting on the state’s economic achievements in his royal address at the opening of the state legislative assembly last April, the Ruler commended the state’s achievements, highlighting that the state had achieved a record-breaking revenue collection of RM636.17mil in 2024, exceeding the target of RM520mil.
The Yang di-Pertuan Besar also spotlighted the transformation of a RM46.9mil deficit into an RM83.07mil surplus and emphasised the importance of prudent financial management and ongoing initiatives such as the state’s Madani Financial Management Plan, which aims to increase state revenue to RM1bil by 2030.
Touching on the state’s status as a key investment destination, the Ruler said in 2024, approved investments (foreign and domestic) totalled RM7.25bil, generating over 4,600 job opportunities in the state.
The Ruler cited a new initiative, Negri Sembilan Fast Lane (N9 Fast Lane), which aims to accelerate approval processes and provide more efficient facilities for investors and entrepreneurs undertaking projects here.
The Yang di-Pertuan Besar also said that the Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0 (MVV 2.0) continued to serve as a key development driver, boosting economic growth and creating more job opportunities.
Highlighting the state’s 311 mosques and 1,204 surau, Tuanku Muhriz proposed that heritage mosques could serve as tourist attractions to benefit local communities.
Looking ahead to Visit Negri Sembilan Year 2026, the Ruler also encouraged the promotion of coastal attractions, eco-tourism and the state’s unique Adat Perpatih cultural heritage.
At the launch of Negri Sembilan Week at the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka last September, the state Ruler said such platforms served as a powerful bridge in fostering understanding and encouraging collaboration.
The week-long exhibit showcased the state’s culture, natural beauty and investment potential.
“Through this, we aim to share our aspirations and our commitment to sustainable development, to foster our strides in the advancement of technology and innovation for mutual prosperity among nations.
“Let this platform be a gateway for resources and opportunities, as well as to our culture, our people and our enduring values.”
While underscoring the platform’s role as a gateway for resources and opportunities, as well as to culture, people and enduring values, Tuanku Muhriz also shared a lighthearted moment with attendees, remarking that “Be assured that Negri Sembilan offers more than the very popular roti canai!”
Education and good governance are among matters that remain central to the ruler’s vision.
During UKM’s 53rd convocation ceremony, Tuanku Muhriz applauded the university for nurturing leaders, professionals and scholars who made the nation proud.
The Ruler said he was proud that the university had taken initiatives to improve governance and integrity.
He also announced the establishment of the Royal Chair in Integrity and Good Governance at UKM’s Faculty of Law, with Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat as its inaugural Professor of Practice as well as a centre for good practices and governance at the university.
Health and welfare initiatives received special attention too, with the Ruler congratulating the Rotary Club of Senawang on the success of its “Gift of Sight” project, which has provided more than 359 cataract lenses to the B40 community since 2019.
Tuanku Muhriz lauded the club’s upcoming Autism Awareness and CPR programmes, emphasising that early intervention and emergency preparedness save lives and strengthen communities.
From applauding healthcare and education professionals to recognising the contributions of volunteers and community leaders, Tuanku Muhriz reinforces the importance of accountability, responsibility and shared values.
As Negri Sembilan celebrates the birthday of its Ruler, these reflections are testament to a leader deeply committed to his people, a state guided by harmony and progress and a community inspired to thrive together.
