SEREMBAN: The Negri Sembilan palace has denied any involvement with political parties contesting the Aug 1 state polls.
In a statement, Comptroller of the Royal Household Datuk Azizi Mohamad Ali advised candidates to refrain from dragging the monarchy into their election campaigns and speeches.
"The Negri Sembilan Palace wishes to emphasise that the royal institution always upholds the principle of neutrality and is not involved with any party or political activity.
"The royal institution serves as an umbrella of unity for the people, playing a role in maintaining the harmony, stability, and well-being of the nation.
"In relation to this, the royal institution always upholds the principle of neutrality and does not side with any political party," he said.
Azizi said any claims, statements, photos, videos, or materials linking the palace, the Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir or any member of the royal family with any political party were untrue.
The palace, he said, would like to advise all political party candidates contesting in the state polls to avoid playing up issues related to the 3Rs (race, religion and royalty).
They were also told to campaign prudently, ethically and in compliance with the law to preserve the harmony of the state.
"The palace appreciates the cooperation of all parties in ensuring that the royal institution continues to be respected and protected from any misinterpretation or exploitation for the interests of any party.
"The public is advised not to spread or believe unverified information and to always refer to the official channels of the palace to obtain authentic information," he added.
Earlier, a clip had gone viral on social media where an individual had claimed that the palace, the Mentri Besar and the state government was being controlled by a political party.
