PUCHONG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has thrown the Federal Government's full support behind Negri Sembilan Ruler, Tuanku Muhriz ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir, and Mentri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, warning that any attempt to pressure or intimidate the monarchy could jeopardise national security and public order.
Stressing that constitutional disputes must be resolved through lawful and established channels, Anwar said Putrajaya would continue to stand firmly with Tuanku Muhriz and the Negri Sembilan administration amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the issue.
"Threatening or forcing any ruler to act would have a very negative impact on the country and its security," he told reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Meranti here on June 5.
Anwar said rulers are bound by established laws, customs and constitutional procedures, adding that actions perceived as undermining the institution of the monarchy should be avoided.
While acknowledging the right of individuals to pursue legal and constitutional avenues, he said any challenge must be backed by sound legal arguments and handled through due process.
The Prime Minister said he had personally conveyed his views to Tuanku Muhriz and maintained that all parties should respect constitutional mechanisms in addressing the matter.
Referring to a recent event held at a hotel, Anwar said it had not affected the image or standing of the Negri Sembilan ruler, although governments must continue to provide appropriate advice on matters involving royal institutions.
"The monarchy is not merely symbolic. It carries dignity, traditions and established procedures that must be upheld.
"As a government, we remain committed to defending the dignity of the monarchy and the sovereignty of the institution," he said.
Anwar reiterated that the Federal Government continues to recognise Tuanku Muhriz as the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan and urged those holding differing views to pursue them through legitimate constitutional channels without causing public anxiety or disrupting the administration of the state.
He also expressed full support for Aminuddin's proposal to hold a state election to resolve uncertainty surrounding the issue.
According to Anwar, the proposal had received the consent of Tuanku Muhriz.
"Because of the confusion and uncertainty surrounding the matter, I fully support the Mentri Besar's position that the best course of action is to hold an election, and Tuanku Muhriz has consented to it," he said.
Anwar stressed that the Federal Government remains firmly behind both Tuanku Muhriz and the Negri Sembilan administration.
"We are still with Tuanku Muhriz and the state government. If there are other views, they should be pursued through the proper channels. We will not obstruct that process, but there are clear reasons why the current approach should continue," he added.
Separately, Anwar said Putrajaya had made extensive preparations in anticipation of political developments in Johor, although the state's decision to proceed with its plans came sooner than expected.
He said the government had intended to spend the next few months focusing on strengthening the economy and addressing issues affecting the rakyat while preparing for any potential political developments.
"We were concentrating on economic matters and issues affecting the people. We had planned to use the next three months to fully restore momentum and strengthen our position," he said.
Despite the shorter-than-expected timeframe, Anwar said efforts had been undertaken to ensure readiness on the ground, including strengthening government machinery and mobilising available resources in Johor.
He also highlighted Johor's strategic importance, citing its close economic ties with Singapore and the role played by the state's people in driving growth and development.
The Prime Minister said the government remains focused on economic recovery and improving the welfare of the rakyat despite evolving political developments.
When asked about Perikatan Nasional's position regarding the situation in Johor, Anwar declined to comment.
"I have a lot more work to do," he said.
