SEREMBAN: Five non-governmental organisations here have voiced support for the Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, adding that his removal by the Undang or ruling chieftains were not done in accordance with provisions in the Laws of the Constitution of Negri Sembilan 1959.
Led by Pertubuhan Otai Reformasi Negri Sembilan president Muhamad Kamel Yassin, the NGOs said although the Undang had the power to depose the state Ruler, this could only be done after a "full and complete enquiry" as stated under Article 10 of the state laws.
"The phrase full and complete inquiry is not defined or explained in detail in the state constitution.
"However, in general and in terms of law, it is a process that must comply with the rule of natural justice and must begin with an allegation on a prima facie basis to be answered," he said in a statement.
The Negri Sembilan government has also refused to accept or recognise a declaration by the Undang as it was not in line with Articles 10 to 13 of the Laws of the Constitution of Negri Sembilan 1959.
Earlier, Muhamad Kamel and representatives from the other NGOs handed over a letter to the Comptroller of the Palace Datuk Azizi Mohamad Ali at the entrance to Istana Hinggap to state their support for the state Ruler.
Muhamad Kamel said Article 10 of the state laws also stipulates that the state Ruler can be deposed on grounds of insanity or blindness or if His Highness has done any overt act detrimental to the sanctity, honour and dignity of a Yang di-Pertuan Besar or has deliberately disregarded the provisions of this Constitution.
"Since none of this happened, we remain loyal and would oppose any uncivilised and unconstitutional action to depose the Ruler," they said.
The other NGOs present were from the Kuala Pilah History and Adat Perpatih Association, Pertubuhan Arab dan Budaya Mertang, Persatuan Kebajikan Insan DK.
The NGOs also proposed the setting up of a high-level committee to study and strengthen the Adat institution to ensure it remained relevant.
"This is also to ensure the modern and customary administrative machinery unique to Negri Sembilan, which combines customary law and rational-legal system of government, can be harmonised and to avoid any confusion in future," they added.
