SHAH ALAM - A recent attempt by a district chief in Negeri Sembilan to “fire” the state’s ruler has sparked confusion and debate, raising a fundamental question: can the Yang Di-Pertuan Besar actually be removed from power?
The short answer is yes, but only under very specific conditions rooted in centuries-old customs and constitutional provisions.
A Unique Royal System Unlike Other States
Unlike most Malaysian states that are led by a Sultan, Negeri Sembilan follows a distinctive system influenced by Adat Perpatih, a matrilineal customary law. At the top sits the Yang Di-Pertuan Besar or Yamtuan Besar, currently Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, who serves as the state’s ruler.
However, his position is not absolute. Beneath him are four powerful territorial chiefs known as the Undang, who govern key districts:
- Sungai Ujong
- Jelebu
- Johol
- Rembau
These Undang are not merely ceremonial figures, they hold one of the most critical powers in the state: electing the Yang Di-Pertuan Besar from among royal candidates. Their authority forms the foundation of the ruler’s legitimacy.
What Triggered the Controversy?
The issue arose when former Undang Luak Sungai Ujong, Mubarak Dohak, attempted to depose Tuanku Muhriz. However, the move was swiftly declared invalid.
According to the Yang Mulia Telaga Undang, Sharifah Norzaidah Syed Nordin Al-Qadri, Mubarak no longer had any authority to make such a declaration.
"The Ibu Soko Klana Hulu and Anak Waris Klana Hulu have also never given him the mandate to do so. Mubarak's actions constitute treason against Tuanku Mukhriz and appropriate legal action should be taken," she reportedly said.
Her statement highlighted a crucial point as Mubarak had already been stripped of his hereditary title, Datuk Klana Petra, on May 13, 2025. This meant he no longer held any legitimate standing within the traditional hierarchy.
A sitting at the Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) on April 17, had also affirmed his dismissal.
Government Response: “Invalid and Unconstitutional”
Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Harun also rejected the move outright, stating it had no legal basis.
He said the attempt violated Articles 10 to 12 of the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959, reinforcing that any action involving the ruler must follow both constitutional law and customary processes.
Authorities have since referred related matters to the police and the Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS) for further action.
Why Was Mubarak Stripped of Power?
While no official reason has been confirmed as the motive behind his attempt to depose the ruler, Mubarak’s earlier removal appears central to the controversy.
He was dismissed from his hereditary role following alleged violations of both customary practices and Islamic law, with approval from traditional authorities including the Ibu Soko Klana Hulu and Anak Waris Klana Hulu.
Unverified claims circulating online suggest multiple breaches, but these remain speculative and unconfirmed.
So, Can the Yang Di-Pertuan Besar Be Removed?
Technically, yes. The four Undang collectively hold the authority to both appoint and remove the Yang Di-Pertuan Besar. This means the ruler’s position ultimately depends on their continued support.
However, removal is not straightforward. It would require:
- A serious breakdown in legitimacy
- Violations of custom or constitutional principles
- Consensus among the Undang
In other words, there is no simple or unilateral mechanism to “fire” the ruler, especially not by a single individual acting without authority.
This episode highlights how Negeri Sembilan’s governance blends tradition and modern law. While the system allows for checks on royal authority, it also demands strict adherence to procedure, hierarchy and legitimacy.
The failed attempt serves as a reminder that power within this structure is collective, not individual and deeply tied to both ‘adat’ (customary law) and constitutional frameworks.