KUALA LUMPUR: The Negeri Sembilan state government remains stable despite the withdrawal of support from 14 Umno assemblymen, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
He said recent statements, including those from Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, make it clear there is no push for a change in government or any “backdoor” administration.
Loke noted that while the 14 assemblymen had declared a loss of confidence in Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun, Umno’s central leadership has not endorsed the formation of a new government and continues to support the unity administration.
“I see the situation as still stable… the existing government remains,” he told reporters after attending an event here on Thursday (April 30).
Loke added that Ahmad Zahid himself had conveyed in Cabinet that he does not agree to any attempt to form a new government.
The crisis began when the Umno bloc withdrew support earlier this week, a move made at the state level and now under review by party leadership.
Ahmad Zahid has since said the issue will be resolved through political channels and in accordance with the law, without interfering in state institutions.
Loke said Putrajaya’s priority is to ensure administrative continuity, with the Menteri Besar and state executive council continuing to carry out their duties.
“There are issues involving institutions that are beyond our control. Those must be resolved within their proper framework,” he added.
On government cost-cutting measures, Loke said the Transport Ministry is implementing energy-saving steps across its operations in line with broader federal directives.
These include adjustments to operational practices and expenditure controls aimed at reducing utility and fuel costs, part of a wider push for fiscal discipline across ministries.
On public transport, Loke acknowledged recent disruptions, particularly involving the LRT system, and said the ministry is taking the matter seriously.
“We want more people to choose public transport, but the system must be reliable,” he said, adding that efforts are underway to improve performance and optimise usage.
Separately, Loke said the government is studying possible adjustments to road tax for diesel vehicles, particularly for users not covered by targeted fuel subsidies.
“Lower taxes will reduce revenue, so we need to weigh this carefully before making a decision,” he said.
The review has been mandated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with the Transport Ministry expected to present proposals soon.
