Home minister: Good governance and rule of law must be upheld as AGC affirms limits on Negeri Sembilan exco powers

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the principles of the rule of law and good governance must continue to be upheld in administrative affairs to ensure that every action is carried out within prescribed jurisdictions. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

First Published: Saturday, 26 Sep 2026 9:52 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 — The principles of the rule of law and good governance must continue to be upheld in administrative affairs to ensure that every action is carried out within prescribed jurisdictions, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Therefore, the suspension of Negeri Sembilan State Secretary (SUK) Datuk Mohd Zafir Ibrahim and State Legal Adviser Datuk Muzalmah Mustapha Kamal highlights the importance of making every administrative decision based on a clear understanding of jurisdiction and legal provisions.

“The ruling by the State Constitution and Law Division of the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) asserts that the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Council (Exco) does not have the legal authority to suspend the duties of both high-ranking officials.

“The legal basis is clear. Article 37 of the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution 1959 stipulates that matters regarding the appointment or suspension of duties for both of these key positions fall under the jurisdiction of the Public Services Commission and the Judicial and Legal Service Commission,” he said via a Facebook post yesterday.

Saifuddin Nasution said that the legal clarity affirmed through the AGC reflects the need to ensure that the principles of governance, justice, and the rule of law are continuously preserved in the administration of the country.

“No party can act unilaterally beyond the established jurisdiction and constitutional provisions. In the administration of the country, every power comes with limits and responsibilities. Respecting those limits is fundamental to the strength of institutions and confidence in our administrative system,” he said.

According to him, civil servants who carry out their trusts and responsibilities must be protected from actions that do not go through proper legal channels and due process.

He further explained that compliance with the Constitution and the law is vital to ensure that the country’s administration remains stable, orderly, and full of integrity.

“The spirit of trustworthiness serves as an essential bulwark in ensuring that the integrity of administrative institutions and the security of the public service continue to be protected from any actions taken without legitimate authority.

“This is the foundation of a robust administration — where power is exercised in accordance with the law, institutions are respected, and the trust of the people always remains a priority,” he said. — Bernama