'Everything is for the benefit of the country and its people' – Tunku Zain

KUALA LUMPUR – The monarchy institution must be understood as a constitutional institution rather than a political institution that takes sides with any party.

Tunku Panglima Besar Negeri Sembilan, Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin Tuanku Muhriz said although there are situations where the Malay Rulers are required to make decisions with political implications, such decisions are made based on the interests of the country and its people, rather than political considerations.

He said the powers and role of the monarchy are derived from the Federal Constitution, making it a neutral institution responsible for ensuring the country's stability.

"The monarchy is not a political institution. It is a constitutional institution. Sometimes decisions made may have political implications, but they are not and should not necessarily be made based on political considerations.

"All decisions are made for the benefit of the country and all its people," he told Sinar Harian in an exclusive interview at the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) office here on Thursday.

According to Tunku Zain, Malaysia's experience following the 15th General Election (GE15), which resulted in a hung Parliament, demonstrated the importance of the monarchy as a neutral institution capable of assisting the country through the process of forming a government in an orderly manner.

He said the existence of a monarchy that remains outside the political arena allowed the country to navigate the situation more stably and avoid a larger crisis.

Tunku Zain stressed that the monarchy, which existed before the establishment of modern democracy, also provided the foundation for the formation of national identity while serving as a link between historical heritage and the current administrative system.

"The monarchy is not merely responsible for constitutional functions such as the appointment of the Prime Minister, senior judges or certain positions. It is also closely linked to the country's history, customs and traditions.

"Every country has its own identity and for Malaysia, the monarchy is among the important elements that shape that identity," he said.

On efforts to preserve traditional institutions in the country, Tunku Zain said education is the most important aspect in ensuring such heritage continues to be understood, preserved and appreciated by younger generations.

He said every state has its own customs and heritage which remain relevant today and are increasingly important in shaping societal identity and strengthening the nation's character.

"Many values embedded in traditional institutions, such as the spirit of consensus, governance that is close to the people and respect for traditions, remain suitable as guides in modern administration.

"Traditional heritage is not only still relevant, but increasingly important to today's generation because it contains various values that suit current needs without neglecting traditions passed down through generations," he said.