‘What is the problem now?’ Jalaluddin denies plot to topple N Sembilan MB

Pertang assemblyman Jalaluddin Alias has denied allegations that he sought to topple Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Ismail Lasim, saying such a move would be baseless after Barisan Nasional (BN) won the state election on Aug 1.

"The election is over and I do not hold the menteri besar's post. I have also stated my wish not to accept any exco position.

"So, what is the problem now? Why keep accusing me? If all these allegations are true, show the evidence," he was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian.

Jalaluddin was responding to claims that he was involved in an attempt to pressure Ismail into signing a document concerning the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. He rejected the claims and asked that proof be presented.

He said the earlier decision by 14 Umno assemblymen from BN to withdraw support for Aminuddin Harun as menteri besar stemmed from a loss of confidence in the leadership's handling of the state administration following a crisis involving the customary institution.

"Why would I bring down a government I have fought for all this while? I am happy that the aim of ensuring BN leads Negeri Sembilan again has been achieved. That was my main goal," he said.

Jalaluddin reiterated that he accepted with an open heart the decision not to appoint him as menteri besar, and urged all parties to give Ismail their full support.

He said that with the new government formed, all sides should focus on their respective duties and ensure the state administration runs smoothly.

BN won 18 state seats in the election and formed the new Negeri Sembilan government in cooperation with Perikatan Nasional, which secured seven seats, giving the coalition a two-thirds majority.

During the campaign, Jalaluddin's name had been mentioned as a possible menteri besar, but the post went to Ismail, who is the Juasseh assemblyman.

Jalaluddin had earlier also dismissed claims that he boycotted the menteri besar's appointment and swearing-in ceremony, saying the invitation reached him only at the last minute.