Jalaluddin denies planning to oust Negeri Sembilan MB, remove ruler

Pertang assemblyman Jalaluddin Alias has denied claims that he was involved in efforts to oust Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Ismail or to remove Tuanku Muhriz as the state's ruler.

He said such claims were baseless, pointing out that he had even expressed his desire not to be appointed to Ismail's state executive council.

"What is the issue? Why are some quarters continuously accusing me (of this)? If they have evidence, show it," he was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian.

"Why would I topple the state government that I fought so hard for? I'm delighted that Barisan Nasional is governing Negeri Sembilan again. That was my main objective."

He was reportedly responding to claims that he was involved in efforts to pressure Ismail into signing a certain document to remove Tuanku Muhriz as the Negeri Sembilan ruler.

Jalaluddin said Negeri Sembilan Umno's withdrawal of support for Pakatan Harapan's Aminuddin Harun in April stemmed from a loss of confidence in the then menteri besar's ability to navigate the state's royal crisis.

He maintained that the move had nothing to do with removing the Yang Dipertuan Besar, as alleged by some quarters.

The Jelebu MP also reiterated that he had no qualms about not being appointed menteri besar, and urged all parties to give Ismail their full support.

"Most importantly, I will do my best to serve the people of Pertang after obtaining another term to represent them as their assemblyman," he said.

Ismail was sworn in as Negeri Sembilan menteri besar on Sunday, after BN and Perikatan Nasional collectively won 25 seats in the 36-member state assembly. Jalaluddin had previously been tipped as a possible candidate for the top post.

Rais Yatim, chairman of PN component Wawasan, had questioned Ismail's appointment, claiming there was "external interference" in the process.