M'sian Bar again challenges Najib pardon, this time over house arrest

M'sian Bar again challenges Najib pardon, this time over house arrest

Published: Sep 25, 2026 7:44 PM


Malaysian Bar intends to challenge the conditional pardon granted to former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak, arguing that there is no existing legal provision for a house arrest mechanism in Malaysia.

The challenge will be the second of its kind mounted by the Bar against Najib, with the legal profession body having previously sought a judicial review challenging the Federal Territories Pardons Board’s January 2024 decision to reduce Najib’s prison sentence and fine.

With the Court of Appeal set to deliver on Jan 27 next year its decision on the Bar’s appeal against the High Court’s refusal to grant it leave to challenge the first pardon, president Anand Raj affirmed that the Bar will be taking the latest conditional pardon to court.

“The Bar will, through its solicitors, challenge the decision and advice of the Pardons Board concerning the second pardon, while maintaining its appeal in relation to the board’s decision and advice on the first pardon,” he said in a statement today.


As part of the conditional pardon granted to Najib during a Sept 18 Pardons Board meeting, the former Umno president will have to pay a RM50 million fine before he is allowed to serve his remaining sentence under house arrest.

READ MORE: Najib gets house arrest - but how he'll be tracked remains unclear

Both the sentence and fine reduction, as well as the conditional pardon, concern Najib’s conviction over seven counts of criminal breach of trust, abuse of power, and money laundering involving over RM42 million belonging to SRC International.

The former premier is also appealing against the High Court’s guilty finding on four counts of abuse of power and 21 counts of money laundering involving RM2.3 billion linked to the 1MDB global financial scandal.


No SOP for house arrest

Anand said that from the Bar’s research to date, there appears to be no standard operating procedures or guidelines in place for house arrests, noting that a “whole new ecosystem of rules and procedures” would be required to operationalise such a mechanism.


Besides citing recent statements from Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirming the lack of such provisions, Anand also rebutted references to the case of Kenneth Lee Fook Mun, who was purportedly granted house arrest by way of a royal pardon.


“(Lee’s case) does not constitute legal authority nor justification for saying that Malaysia has a formal legal ‘house arrest’ framework. It is unclear if that case arose by way of a Pardons Board decision or under licence of the prisons’ commissioner general under Section 43 of the Prisons Act 1995.

“The case also does not appear to have been tested in court nor to have received any judicial endorsement - it therefore does not constitute a legal precedent for granting house arrest,” Anand said.

In January last year, Najib’s lawyer, Shafee Abdullah, said on a podcast that he had represented Lee, the grandson of Malaysia’s first finance minister Henry Lee Hau Shik, who allegedly went on to receive a house arrest order to serve his remaining sentence over a murder charge.

Donation drive under scrutiny

Anand also questioned the donation drive set up by Umno to collect the funds needed for Najib’s RM50 million fine.

“Given the reported return of the earlier RM114,164,393.44 to Najib’s representative, it is unclear why Umno needs to raise funds from the public. Such a public fundraiser may also involve other legal considerations,” he said.


The RM114 million figure refers to the value of seized cash and assets from a 2018 raid which was returned to Najib and Umno after prosecutors failed to forfeit the amount in a 1MDB-linked forfeiture suit.

Anand added that it is also “unclear” why Najib has claimed that most of his assets are frozen when it appears that “more than enough” of his previously seized assets have been returned to cover the RM50 million fine without the need for a public fundraiser.

“Perhaps there may be other assets (which were not seized circa May 2018) which may have been frozen, but this is not clear, nor have any details been made available publicly,” Anand said.

READ MORE: From Brunei to Italy, Najib's RM50m fine draws donors from far and wide, says Rosmah

He further said the Bar backs the joint statement issued earlier by civil society organisations and individuals, including former Bersih leaders Ambiga Sreenevasan and Maria Chin Abdullah.

Besides urging the Pardons Board and the Prime Minister’s Department to declassify and publish the Pardons Board’s official minutes on the meetings behind Najib’s first and second pardon, the Bar is also calling for the full disclosure of all conditions attached to Najib’s house arrest.

This, Anand said, includes monitoring protocols, enforcement authorities, and the additional costs to taxpayers that a potential house arrest would entail.

FRONTLINES IN UKRAINE SEPT 2026

 

OutSyed The Box

Friday, September 25, 2026

FRONTLINES IN UKRAINE SEPT 2026

Since the beginning of 2026 (NINE months) Russian forces have taken over 5,000 sq km of territory in the Donbas region of Ukraine. In the first three weeks of September alone they have advanced another 600 sq km. 

Above here is a map of the frontlines in Ukraine. The red line is very approximate ok. Follow the red line from Kupyansk in the north down to Vasylivka in the south.

• Kupyansk — Russian forces control the city, now moving above northern flank.
• Lyman (Krasny Liman) — Russian forces control the city, clearing up operations.
• Slovyansk — Russian forces advanced into Slovyansk. 
• Kramatorsk — Russian forces taken east of city.
• Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) — Russian forces entered the city.
• Hulyaipole — Over 50% of city under Russian control with steady advances.
• Orikhiv — Russian forces entered central quarters of the city. Advancing.  
• Vasylivka (Zaporizhzhia) — Fully under Russian control.

On 5 August 2026, President Putin appointed a very capable and aggressive  General Andrey Sergeyevich Ivanayev as commander of the Central Military District and the Group of Forces “Center” (in Ukraine).  Prior to that, under his command, Russian forces made major advances including around Huliaipole. 

Russian forces are expected to advance further west (oops) towards Kharkiv (in the north).  Operations against Odessa in the south are also becoming much more aggressive. The Russians have imposed a complete blockade against the entire Black Sea coast in Odessa. Ukraine is cut off from the sea lanes.  

Who has been heavy-handed? Chinese (HK) authorities or British???

From the FB page of:

Nury Vittachi

 

Favorites ·11 hours ago ·

A MAN WAS JAILED in the UK yesterday for throwing a plastic water bottle towards a line of police.

He told police to “F** off” and was seen “pointing aggressively” at them, court reports show.

Del Somerville pleaded guilty. The father-of-two was sentenced to TWO YEARS IN PRISON.

Now just think about that for a second.

Two years in jail for hurling a plastic bottle, using bad language, and pointing.

Hong Kong protesters LITERALLY threw thousands of Molotov cocktails, and used explosives, arrows, and sharpened spears, sending numerous police officers to hospital.

Near my office, protesters threw petrol bombs INTO a police car and covered roads and pavements with spiked booby-traps, one of which went into my foot.

And their punishment? The majority of Hong Kong protesters, even at these violent scenes, were let free with cautions.

And yet, ridiculously, it’s the Hong Kong authorities who are portrayed as heavy-handed.

[Shakes head sadly.]

One day someone has to tell the truth about all this.

The Negeri Sembilan crisis: Oaths broken, authority challenged, and silence from law enforcement authorities

Malaysia's #1 Content Aggregator


The Negeri Sembilan crisis: Oaths broken, authority challenged, and silence from law enforcement authorities


25 Sep 2026 • 8:01 AM MYT

The Vibes






By Murray Hunter


THE constitutional crisis unfolding in Negeri Sembilan has escalated beyond a dispute over customary succession into a confrontation with the state’s Yang di-Pertuan Besar.

On 15 September 2026, the state Executive Council (EXCO) endorsed a proclamation by certain Undang purporting to remove Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir and install Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar in his place.



Days later, the palace revoked the appointments of the ten EXCO members (sparing Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim) for breaching the oath of allegiance they had sworn before Tuanku Muhriz on 7 August.

The MB has rejected the dismissals as unconstitutional without his advice, insisted the EXCO remains valid, and, in a further move, suspended the state secretary and state legal adviser who had declined to gazette the contested proclamation.

The Dewan Keadilan dan Undang (DKU) has described the EXCO’s actions as treason and a coup attempt. Former Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun called the endorsement an act of derhaka and urged police action.

A police report has been lodged citing Section 121 of the Penal Code. Yet no investigation into the core acts appears to have commenced, even as reports emerge of police restricting EXCO access to state facilities.



This combination of events raises serious questions about the enforcement of laws protecting the Rulers and the selective application of authority.

Under Malaysia’s Penal Code, offences against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, a Ruler or Yang di-Pertua Negeri fall under Chapter VI. Section 121 criminalises waging war, attempting to wage war, or abetting such war against a Ruler, punishable by death or imprisonment of 30 to 40 years.

Section 121A covers conspiring, inventing or intending the death, hurt, imprisonment or restraint of a Ruler. Section 121B addresses conspiring or intending the deposition or deprivation of a Ruler from the rule of a State, or the overthrow of the government by criminal force, carrying 30 to 40 years’ imprisonment. Abetment and concealment attract related penalties.

The Abolition of Mandatory Death Penalty Act 2023 converted former mandatory death sentences into discretionary ones within these ranges.



The EXCO’s collective recognition of a proclamation seeking to strip Tuanku Muhriz of his position, after swearing loyalty to him, engages the language of deposition under Section 121B more directly than a personal assault under 121A.

Whether the acts meet the threshold of “waging war” under Section 121 remains a matter for investigation and the courts. The palace’s use of Article 38(5) of the Negeri Sembilan Constitution, under which EXCO members other than the MB hold office at the Ruler’s pleasure, followed the oath breach.

The MB’s counter-claim rests on reading that article together with provisions requiring the Ruler to act on advice in administrative matters. Parallel claims by the Attorney-General’s Chambers that the original proclamation was invalid for non-compliance with Article 10 of the state constitution add further layers of complexity.

These are constitutional questions, yet the criminal dimensions alleged by the DKU and others have not been tested through formal investigation.



The absence of visible police action is striking. Two scenarios present themselves.

The first is political calculation at the federal level. The current unity government depends on UMNO support. Charging an UMNO-linked Menteri Besar and EXCO members with serious offences against a Ruler could fracture that arrangement and risk the government’s survival.

In a system where party survival often outweighs institutional consistency, reluctance to prosecute becomes understandable, if not defensible.

A more troubling possibility is institutional capture. UMNO has long exercised influence across the bureaucracy and security services. If elements within the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) are constrained by political affiliations rather than the rule of law, then the enforcement of statutes designed to protect the monarchy itself becomes selective.



The result is the appearance that certain political actors operate above the ordinary application of the Penal Code when the target is a Ruler whose position they seek to alter.

Either explanation carries consequences. The monarchy’s role as a stabilising institution rests on the perception that its position is protected by law, not merely by custom or political convenience.

When an EXCO can endorse a move to replace a Ruler, reject the Ruler’s constitutional response, suspend officials who decline to implement the contested change, and face no criminal inquiry, the practical authority of the institution is diminished.

Silence from federal leaders and the absence of clear statements from the police compound the erosion. Precedents of this nature do not remain confined to one state; they signal to others that challenges to established authority may be managed politically rather than through the courts.

The crisis also exposes the limits of Malaysia’s hybrid constitutional monarchy. Customary processes involving the Undang coexist uneasily with written constitutional provisions and the criminal law.

When political parties align with one faction of customary chiefs against the incumbent Ruler, the dispute ceases to be internal to the state and becomes a test of whether federal institutions will uphold the legal framework that underpins the entire system of Rulers.

Patience has its place in constitutional disputes. Indefinite forbearance in the face of alleged offences against the person or authority of a Ruler does not. If the facts disclosed by the EXCO’s own statements, the palace’s revocation of appointments, and the DKU’s formal accusations do not warrant at least a formal investigation under the relevant sections of the Penal Code, then the message is clear: the laws protecting the monarchy apply unevenly.

In a country where the Rulers remain a central pillar of the constitutional order, that selectivity is more dangerous than any single act of defiance. The longer the authorities remain silent, the more the crisis in Negeri Sembilan becomes a national question about whether established authority still commands consistent enforcement. – September 25, 2026

***

Wonder what my old matey the late RPK (who himself was a royal) would say to the scandalous behaviour of the UMNO MB and excos of N9 - probably "Tangkap - Lokap - Pancung" and kt would then add "Re-Sunat-ize KauKau" wakakaka.

Hope old matey RPK is laughing on the other side of the river, wakakaka.

Rais Yatim charged with sedition over Negeri Sembilan royal dispute

Malaysia's #1 Content Aggregator


Rais Yatim charged with sedition over Negeri Sembilan royal dispute


25 Sep 2026 • 10:53 AM MYT

The Vibes






FORMER Dewan Negara president Tan Sri Rais Yatim was charged with sedition today over remarks he allegedly made following the purported proclamation of Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Jaafar as the 12th Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan in June.


Rais, 84, pleaded not guilty when the charge was read before Ayer Keroh Sessions Court judge Raja Noor Adilla Raja Mahyaldin.

The former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar is accused of uttering seditious words during a press conference at a hotel in Simpang Ampat, Alor Gajah, at about 1 pm on June 5.



The charge was brought under Section 4(1)(b) of the Sedition Act 1948, which provides for a fine of up to RM5,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both upon conviction.

According to the charge, Rais allegedly made statements expressing support for Tunku Nadzaruddin as the 12th Yang Dipertuan Besar, including a call for people to pledge their allegiance to him.


The charge cited, among others, the words: “Mendoakan selamat kepada Tunku Nadzaruddin sebagai Yang Dipertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan ke-12. Jadi, selepas ini, bebaslah, Yang Duli Yang Maha Mulia Tuanku Nadzaruddin sebagai Yang Dipertuan Besar ke-12, melakukan apa-apa sahaja hal kedirajaan.”

He was also alleged to have said: “Dan seruan kami ialah tumpukanlah taat setia kepadanya, oleh kerana kita mengikut lunas undang-undang dan juga lunas adat yang ada di Negeri Sembilan.”



Deputy public prosecutors Shahrizat Ismail, Nor Azizah Aling and Nadia Mohd Izhar proposed bail of RM10,000 with one surety.

Rais, represented by a five-member legal team led by his son Danni Rais, sought a reduction, saying he had cooperated with the authorities despite being informed of the charge only at about 10.30 pm last night.


Raja Noor Adilla subsequently granted bail at RM8,000 with one surety.

The court fixed October 27 for mention. – September 25, 2026

Spell out the offence: Aminudin challenges Negeri MB over royal dispute allegations

Spell out the offence: Aminudin challenges Negeri MB over royal dispute allegations



Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim speaks during a special press conference with the Negeri Sembilan executive council members in Seremban on September 24, 2026. — Bernama pic


Summary

• Former Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, has urged the current Menteri Besar, Datuk Ismail Lasim, to clarify alleged shortcomings of the previous administration, particularly regarding state traditions and royal institution issues.
• Aminuddin insists the public deserves specifics on any claimed breaches of the Negeri Sembilan Constitution (UUTKNS) 1959 during his tenure, including when these occurred.
• He expressed readiness to provide documentation to substantiate decisions made during his time in office.
• Additionally, Aminuddin questioned Ismail's decision to sign a proclamation document related to the Yang Dipertuan Besar's position, which Aminuddin had previously opted not to sign over process concerns.

First Published: Friday, 25 Sep 2026 3:47 PM MYT


SEREMBAN, Sept 25 — Former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun has called on current Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim to specify the alleged shortcomings of the previous administration that led to issues involving the state’s customary traditions and royal institution.

Aminuddin said the public had the right to know what actions were allegedly not taken during his tenure as Menteri Besar, including the specific provisions of the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan (UUTKNS) 1959 that were allegedly breached and when the alleged violation occurred.

"What actions were said to have been overlooked? Which provisions of the UUTKNS 1959 were allegedly breached and when did the alleged breach occur?

"If there was an offence, state clearly what it was. If there was a violation of the law, identify the relevant provision. On an issue of this magnitude, the public deserves clear and verifiable facts,” he said in a Facebook post today.


Aminuddin said he was prepared to take responsibility for decisions made during his tenure as Menteri Besar by providing relevant documents, dates and legal provisions based on official records.

Yesterday, Ismail said the issue in the state did not stem from the current administration but was a problem inherited from the previous government.

Meanwhile, the Port Dickson Member of Parliament also questioned Ismail’s decision to sign a proclamation document related to the position of the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, despite previously choosing not to sign the same document.


Aminuddin said the proclamation document dated April 19 was presented to him on April 20 while he was still Menteri Besar, for his signature under Article 10(2) of the UUTKNS 1959.

"I decided not to sign the document. If I, as Menteri Besar at the time, could make that decision due to doubts over the process, how could the signature of the next Menteri Besar appear on the same document?

"Datuk Ismail, with his legal background, would certainly understand the importance of the process. The issue involving Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir is about whether the process was properly followed or had flaws from the beginning,” he said.

Aminuddin said Article 10 of the UUTKNS 1959 not only covers matters relating to the powers concerning the position of the Yang Dipertuan Besar, but also sets out procedures that must be fulfilled, including matters related to a full and complete inquiry. — Bernama

Anwar wraps China visit with RM36.8b in trade, investment pledges

Anwar wraps China visit with RM36.8b in trade, investment pledges



Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim holds a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Mingyuan Hall of the West Lake State Guest House in Hangzhou on September 24, 2026. — Bernama pic


Summary

• Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit to China marked a significant enhancement of Malaysia-China strategic relations, moving beyond routine diplomacy to solidify Malaysia's role as a key partner in Southeast Asia.
• This visit resulted in a potential RM28.6 billion investment in high-impact sectors, reflecting mutual trust and economic cooperation.
• Discussions also addressed the concerns of local MSMEs and emphasized ethical digital technology, fair trade, and skills development.
• The relationship, built on strong personal ties between Anwar and Premier Li Qiang, positions Malaysia to maximize economic benefits through MADANI Diplomacy.

First Published: Friday, 25 Sep 2026 4:06 PM MYT


HANGZHOU, Sept 25 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's three-day working visit to Shanghai and Hangzhou, China, is not just a routine diplomatic trip, but rather a new benchmark for the continuation of strategic relations that strengthen cooperation in various fields between the two countries.

Amidst the global geopolitical and economic uncertainties, the MADANI Diplomacy approach brought by Putrajaya has proven to be fruitful, thus strengthening Malaysia's role as Beijing's main strategic partner in the Southeast Asian region.

The working visit at the invitation of the Chinese government not only strengthens bilateral relations, but also opens up new opportunities for Malaysia to expand investments, export markets and cooperation in strategic and high-value economic areas.

Among the main returns of the visit was the potential investment worth RM28.6 billion from meetings with 26 Chinese companies, including five of the republic's giants, particularly in high-impact sectors such as semiconductors, mainstreaming artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, electric vehicles (EV), battery materials, advanced optics, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing.


The commitment of companies such as robotics giants AgiBot Innovation, ZTE Corporation, Alibaba Group, Geely Automobile Holdings and Huawei Technologies to increase investment is based on confidence in the stability and policies implemented by the MADANI Government.

Also achieved as a result of this visit was the potential export to China worth RM8.2 billion for a period of one to three years.

Summarising the overall outcome of the visit, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the relationship between Malaysia and China is now at a very strong level and is developing positively.


Describing the close relationship between Malaysia and China today as having gone beyond the usual diplomatic framework, the Prime Minister said this bilateral relationship is based on mutual trust, sincerity and confidence in order to bring prosperity and benefits to the people of both countries.

During the packed working visit, Anwar stressed the long-standing trust and mutual confidence forming the basis of the Malaysia-China bilateral relationship and cooperation that goes beyond traditional diplomatic ties.

The Malaysia-China relationship also translates into a broader agenda covering connectivity, protection of local enterprises, the digital economy, and talent and skills development.

While delivering a keynote address at the plenary session of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, Anwar said Malaysia has elevated Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as the core of the country's industrial policy and an instrument of economic transformation, particularly in ensuring talent development goes hand in hand with investment inflows.

"Malaysia and China are well positioned to do more together. Investments come to Malaysia for various reasons. But we all know that it grows especially when there are sufficient skills to support it,” he said.

While in Hangzhou, Malaysia's first-ever participation in the Fifth Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE) provided exposure to the exploration of new technologies and AI applications that deserve to be learned and drawn from China's rapid progress.

Malaysia also offers a stable, well-connected and business-friendly base for partners from China and globally to forge strategic partnerships.

Malaysia's participation in both important Chinese events and Anwar's presence to deliver the keynote address at the WorldSkills Conference 2026 and GDTE is a high recognition for Malaysia and the country's leadership.

The Prime Minister had the opportunity to voice his stance on the importance of ethical digital technology, fair and free digital trade and shared prosperity through strategic national cooperation.

Anwar also expressed recognition of China's rapid progress in the fields of digital technology and AI as well as its role in sharing technological advances with countries in the Global South.

The bilateral meeting and discussions between the two Malaysian and Chinese delegations at the West Lake State Guest House, Hangzhou, highlighted the level of personal chemistry between Anwar and China Premier Li Qiang.

The close relationship between the two leaders is not a secret. Repeated meetings since Anwar's tenure as the country's leader in November 2022 reflect a high-level of mutual trust that goes beyond formal diplomatic protocols.

This closeness allows complex issues such as supply chains, the implementation of infrastructure projects and regional and international geopolitical stability to be discussed in a frank and relaxed, yet effective manner.

Among the matters discussed during the bilateral meeting was the agreement between Malaysia and China on the proposal to extend the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang, Kelantan, thus providing economic spillover and prosperity to rural areas in Kelantan.

Also given attention was the concerns of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Malaysia regarding foreign market domination that could affect local interests.

"This matter has been raised directly and we have received assurances from the relevant companies, including Alibaba and Li himself, that the best method will be sought so that business dealings do not affect the interests of MSMEs in Malaysia," said Anwar.

This working visit not only maintains China's status as Malaysia's largest trading partner, but also redefines the landscape of cooperation from traditional commodity trade to the digital economy, artificial intelligence and high skills.

China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching US$113.82 billion (RM456.68 billion) for the period January to August this year.

The combination of pragmatic MADANI Diplomacy and the close relationship between Anwar and Li puts Malaysia in the best position to maximise economic benefits for the well-being of the people. — Bernama

Negeri Sembilan Undang, disputed chiefs: Conference of Rulers told of Tunku Nadzaruddin’s succession

Negeri Sembilan Undang, disputed chiefs: Conference of Rulers told of Tunku Nadzaruddin’s succession



File picture of Istana Negara. The Negeri Sembilan government has informed the Conference of Rulers that Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar has been selected as the state’s 12th Yang di-Pertuan Besar, according to an Undang and three disputed ruling chiefs. — Bernama pic


Summary

• The Negeri Sembilan government has informed the Conference of Rulers about Tunku Nadzaruddin's selection as the state's 12th Yang di-Pertuan Besar.
• The group insists that Tunku Nadzaruddin is the lawful authority under the Negeri Sembilan Constitution to exercise all functions of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar.
• There is a dispute with Dewan Keadilan dan Undang, which asserts Tuanku Muhriz is the lawful Yang di-Pertuan Besar and the April 19 proclamation is invalid.

First Published: Friday, 25 Sep 2026 3:45 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — The Negeri Sembilan government has notified the Conference of Rulers of Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar’s selection as the state’s 12th Yang di-Pertuan Besar, according to an Undang and three ruling chiefs whose positions are disputed.

The group said the notification meant Tunku Nadzaruddin was the only person with lawful authority to perform the functions of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar under the Negeri Sembilan Constitution 1959, including attending meetings of the Conference of Rulers, The Star reported today.

It also urged the state administration to recognise Tunku Nadzaruddin and provide him with the privileges and entitlements attached to the office.

“The state government administration must comply and remain loyal and must not commit any act of disobedience.


“The state government administration must also immediately accord all privileges and entitlements prescribed for Tunku Nadzaruddin,” they said.

State civil servants, meanwhile, were urged to follow decisions of the executive council and not bow to pressure from any party.

The group said the official notification to the Conference of Rulers reflected its position that Tunku Nadzaruddin was entitled to exercise all the functions of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar.


“Through the... official notification to the Conference of Rulers, only Tunku Nadzaruddin... has the lawful authority to exercise all functions of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar under the Negeri Sembilan Constitution 1959, including attending all meetings of the Conference of Rulers,” they said.

The joint statement was issued by Undang of Johol Datuk Muhammed Abdullah, Datuk Mubarak Thahak, Datuk Maarof Mat Rashad and Datuk Abdul Rahim Yasin, whose positions as the Undang of Sungei Ujong, Jelebu and Rembau respectively are disputed.

Tunku Besar Tampin Tunku Syed Razman Syed Idrus Al-Qadri was also a signatory.

The group maintains that Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir was removed as Yang di-Pertuan Besar on April 19, with Tunku Nadzaruddin subsequently chosen as his successor.

The Dewan Keadilan dan Undang disputes that account, maintaining that Tuanku Muhriz remains the lawful Yang di-Pertuan Besar and that the April 19 proclamation was invalid

Don't hide behind excuses, explain why you signed proclamation, ex-N Sembilan MB tells Ismail

Don't hide behind excuses, explain why you signed proclamation, ex-N Sembilan MB tells Ismail

Zarrah Morden

Published: Sep 25, 2026 1:35 PM


Former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Aminuddin Harun has told his successor, Ismail Lasim, not to blame the previous administration for the ongoing state royal imbroglio and urged him to explain why he signed the controversial proclamation to install a new ruler.

Aminuddin (above, right) said he had no problem with his record as menteri besar being scrutinised, but Ismail should specify what alleged wrongdoing the previous state government committed.

“Don’t just use the term ‘previous government’ as a general answer. If there was wrongdoing, state what it was. If there was a breach of the law, state the provision.

“In a matter this serious, the people have a right to clear and verifiable facts,” he said in a statement today.


Yesterday, Ismail (above, left) brushed aside questions about his shifting loyalties to the state ruler and his claim that he was forced to sign a document affirming the state’s disputed territorial chieftains' (Undang Yang Empat) move to dethrone Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir (below).


On Aug 3, a day after being sworn in as menteri besar, Ismail met with the chieftains and rival claimant to the throne, Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar.

During that meeting, he signed a document affirming the territorial chieftain's proclamation on April 19 dethroning Tuanku Muhriz.

When the matter was made public on Sept 6, Ismail distanced himself from the document and pledged loyalty to Tuanku Muhriz.


READ MORE: MB 'forced' to sign order against Tuanku Muhriz, but doesn’t say why he met rebel undangs


'I refused to sign same document'

Commenting further, Aminuddin said that on April 20, while he was still menteri besar, he was presented with a proclamation dated April 19 for his signature, with reference to the process under Article 10 of the Negeri Sembilan Constitution.


He said he decided not to sign it as he had serious concerns about the process, including whether the requirements under Article 10 had been fully complied with.

Aminuddin added that his position was based on legal advice that a menteri besar should not sign a document with such significant implications for the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar when questions over the process and its validity are unresolved.


“If I, during my tenure as menteri besar, could decide not to sign the document due to doubts regarding the process, how is it that the signature of the menteri besar who succeeded me appears on that same document?” he asked.

He noted that Ismail had acknowledged the signature as his own but later claimed that he had signed the document under duress. The menteri besar later lodged a police report on the matter.

Aminuddin also pointed to the Attorney-General’s Chambers’ Sept 17 statement, which said that the April 19 proclamation was invalid because the mandatory requirements under Article 10 had not been complied with.

READ MORE: AGC: N Sembilan MB, state exco's decision on Tuanku Muhriz invalid

At the same time, he acknowledged that the Undang Yang Empat secretariat had disputed this position, maintaining that the inquiries conducted on March 5 and April 19 had fulfilled the requirements of Article 10 of the state constitution.

“The difference in interpretation itself shows that compliance with Article 10 is a substantive issue and not something that can be simplified by blaming only one party,” he said.

‘What changed in early September?’

Separately, former minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz also questioned the sequence of events surrounding Ismail’s signing of the proclamation and his subsequent position on the matter.

In a statement yesterday, Zafrul said that Ismail took his oath as menteri besar before Tuanku Muhriz on Aug 2 and signed the proclamation concerning the ruler’s removal the following day.


Yet on Sept 6, more than a month after signing the document, Ismail still publicly expressed full support and loyalty to Tuanku Muhriz as Yang di-Pertuan Besar, Zafrul added.

Three days later, Ismail lodged a police report saying he unwillingly signed the proclamation to remove Tuanku Muhriz and under duress, while the state government maintained that the proclamation did not comply with the prescribed process and procedures.

On Sept 15, Ismail maintained that a proclamation did not, by itself, create the constitutional power required to remove the ruler and that questions over its source of authority, conditions, and procedures needed to be determined.

However, the state executive council, chaired by Ismail, unanimously decided on the same day that the proclamation was valid and in force.

The decision to remove Tuanku Muhriz as Yang di-Pertuan Besar was announced on Sept 16, while Ismail again confirmed the exco decision the next day and directed that the gazettement process proceed.

READ MORE: KINIGUIDE | Negeri Sembilan royal rumble: What's going on?

Therefore, Zafrul called upon Ismail to explain what had changed between Sept 9 and 15.

Among the questions he raised were whether Ismail was indeed forced to sign the proclamation on Aug 3, who allegedly forced him, what prompted the change in position between Sept 9 and Sept 15, and whether he had also been pressured into changing his position.

“If there was pressure to change your position, who was involved and who did you meet during that period?” Zafrul asked.

Najib’s bank accounts frozen, cannot afford RM50m fine, says lawyer

Najib’s bank accounts frozen, cannot afford RM50m fine, says lawyer



Datuk Seri Najib Razak waves to members of the media at the High Court in Kuala Lumpur, September 25, 2026. Najib cannot afford the RM50 million fine imposed as a condition for him to serve the remainder of his SRC International prison sentence under house arrest, his lawyer Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah said today. — Bernama pic


Summary

• Najib Razak cannot afford the RM50 million fine needed to serve his prison sentence under house arrest, as his bank accounts are frozen.
• Najib's legal team has not received the official letter detailing the terms of his conditional pardon from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
• The delay in receiving the pardon's official document is hindering Najib's legal team's ability to plan their next steps.

First Published: Friday, 25 Sep 2026 12:14 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak cannot afford the RM50 million fine imposed as a condition for him to serve the remainder of his SRC International prison sentence under house arrest, his lawyer Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah said today.

Shafee said Najib did not have the financial means to settle the fine and that his bank accounts had been frozen, including an Affin Bank account he had previously used to receive his salary as prime minister and Member of Parliament, Berita Harian reported today.

Shafee said Najib was in a difficult position as he was required to pay the fine as one of the conditions of his pardon but did not have the means to do so.

“He is in a dilemma because he is supposed to pay it, but he does not have the money,” he said, adding that he did not know how much had been raised in contributions.

Separately, Shafee said Najib had yet to receive the official letter on the conditional pardon granted by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, which allows him to serve the remainder of his SRC International sentence under house arrest.


He said the legal team had also not received the document setting out the conditions of the pardon.

“The Yang di-Pertuan Agong has made the decision under his prerogative, but the most important person is Datuk Seri Najib because he is the one who was sentenced to prison and house arrest, yet until today he has not received the letter.

“We do not know why the letter is taking so long. Even the Prisons Department has not received it,” he said, noting that today marked the eighth day since Najib was granted the conditional pardon.

Shafee said the delay was affecting the legal team’s next steps because they did not know the full conditions contained in the official document.

“Eight days. It is strange. This delay is affecting the legal team’s next course of action because we do not know the full conditions contained in the official document,” he said.

Bandar Utama school stabbing: Family plans civil suit as mother asks if tragedy could have been prevented

Bandar Utama school stabbing: Family plans civil suit as mother asks if tragedy could have been prevented



Wong Lee Ping, the mother of 16-year-old student Yap Shing Xuen, who was fatally stabbed at a Bandar Utama school last year, speaks to reporters in Kepong on September 25, 2026, as the family announced plans to pursue a civil suit. — Picture by Raymond Manuel


Summary

• Nearly a year after the tragic school stabbing of her 16-year-old daughter, Wong Lee Ping continues to seek answers about whether the incident could have been prevented.
• Following the Shah Alam High Court's acquittal of the accused on grounds of unsound mind, the family plans to file a civil suit while the case moves to the appeal stage.
• Wong emphasizes the need for awareness and preventive measures in schools to protect children, expressing a deep sense of loss and gratitude for public support.
• The family's legal actions aim to address potential oversight and prevent future tragedies.

First Published: Friday, 25 Sep 2026 1:47 PM MYT
Last Modified: Friday, 25 Sep 2026 1:52 PM MYT


KEPONG, Sept 25 — More than 11 months after her daughter was fatally stabbed at school, Wong Lee Ping is still asking a question she cannot put behind her: could the tragedy have been prevented?

The mother of 16-year-old Yap Shing Xuen said the family is planning to pursue a civil suit as the criminal case moves to the appeal stage following the Shah Alam High Court’s decision to acquit the teenage accused on the grounds of unsoundness of mind.

“Our lawyers will be filing a civil suit. Until the criminal proceedings are completed, we will not comment on the details. Our lawyers will explain those matters later,” Wong told a press conference today.

Asked whether the civil action would be filed after the appeal or concurrently, Wong said the family intended to proceed but had yet to determine when.


She also confirmed that the family was considering legal action against certain parties, but declined to identify them, saying the matter would be reviewed in due course.


For Wong, however, the civil action is not simply another legal avenue. Her daughter, she said, is not coming home.

“I am not here today to seek resolution in the criminal case, because my daughter is already gone.


“No matter what we do today, I will never be able to hear her call me again. I will never be able to call her home again,” she said, breaking down in tears.

‘Were the warning signs seen?’

Wong said she remained troubled by what might have happened before the stabbing.

“If there were already some warning signs before the tragedy happened, were those warning signs seen?

“And if they were seen, did anyone actually take sufficient action?” she said.

Wong said she was not asking schools to guarantee that tragedies would never happen.

“But I hope that whenever a child shows warning signs of danger, we don’t wait until another child loses their life before regretting it and asking why nobody stopped it, why nobody could stop it.

“My daughter does not have a second chance,” she said.

Wong said she hoped her daughter’s death could instead give other children a better chance of being protected.

“That is why I am continuing to stand here and speak today,” she said.

She also questioned whether warning signs had been missed during the accused teenager’s first two weeks at the school.

“For two weeks the student brought a knife to school, why didn’t anyone notice this? I think it is very possible that other students knew.

“Why didn’t the school teachers tell the children that if they noticed anything dangerous, or if someone brought a knife or something like that to school, they should tell a teacher?” she said.

Wong’s husband, How Boon Chin, who was also at the press conference, stressed the importance of measures to prevent similar incidents in schools.

“School is supposed to be a very safe place,” he said.



Wong Lee Ping and How Boon Chin, the parents of 16-year-old student Yap Shing Xuen, who was fatally stabbed at a Bandar Utama school last year, stand alongside Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng (2nd left) and supporters during a press conference at the Kepong MP Service Centre in Kuala Lumpur on September 25, 2026. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

From murder charge to appeal

Yap Shing Xuen was fatally stabbed at a secondary school in Bandar Utama on October 14 last year.

The teenager accused of killing her, who was 14 at the time, was charged with murder at the Petaling Jaya Magistrates’ Court on October 22.

The case subsequently went through psychiatric assessment before being transferred to the Shah Alam High Court, where the trial was conducted in camera because the accused was a minor.

A psychiatric assessment found him fit to stand trial in January. He pleaded not guilty when the murder charge was read again at the High Court on February 12.

The trial began on August 3.

On August 13, the High Court ordered the teenager to enter his defence after finding that the prosecution had established a prima facie case.

The defence closed its case on August 26 after two witnesses — the accused and a forensic psychiatrist — testified.

On September 14, High Court Judge Adlin Abdul Majid acquitted and discharged the teenager after finding that he was of unsound mind at the time of the offence, and ordered him to be placed at Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta for a period to be approved by the Sultan of Selangor.

The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) filed a Notice of Appeal at the Court of Appeal on September 22, challenging the acquittal.


Appeal puts High Court ruling under fresh scrutiny

Kepong DAP MP Lim Lip Eng, whose office offered legal assistance to the family, said the AGC’s decision to appeal showed that prosecutors were challenging the High Court’s ruling.

“And to answer a few questions from the reporters whether we or the family members agree with the judgment, I think the government has answered. The government disagrees with the judgment, hence the appeal,” he said.

Wong said the family was moved by the decision to appeal.

“When I heard that the AGC was appealing, I was actually very touched because I felt that someone was supporting me,” she said.

She said the family would now wait for the appeal process rather than attempt to intervene in matters outside its control.

Wong also said the family had not had the opportunity to access certain documentary evidence, including government documents and the medical report.

She therefore declined to comment on some aspects of the case while the appeal was pending, saying the Court of Appeal should make its decision based on the complete evidence.

Asked whether the family was willing to meet the accused again, Wong said she had no intention of doing so.

“I don’t think I will meet him again, there is no need for that,” she said.

‘It feels like it happened only the day before yesterday’

The passage of almost a year has not made the loss feel distant for Wong.

She said she had struggled to return to work after her daughter’s death, continuing only because her team was still there.

“We reduced our workload. We worked more slowly and did less,” she said.

“It feels as though this happened only the day before yesterday.”

For much of the past year, she said, she simply wanted to rest and not think about anything.

“Just eat and sleep. The year passed like that,” she added.

Wong said she had spent the year carrying out Buddhist prayers and rituals for Shing Xuen, including ceremonies marking the 49th and 100th days after her death.

She also arranged for 20,000 copies of Buddhist scriptures to be printed and distributed to temples.

But Wong said the family had to be careful about how much of the case they discussed with her other daughter.

“There are many things that I don’t talk to her about too much because it would disturb her life and affect her, and it would also affect me,” Wong said.

“Because in our current situation, it feels like a second trauma for us.

“So I try to avoid exposing her to these things. I only discuss important matters with her. Other things, I don’t tell her too much.”

Wong said she was grateful for the public support the family had received throughout the case.

“The public has really shown us a lot of care and support. I am really touched. I thank everyone and am grateful that people have shown us this support,” she said.

How said the family would hold a separate press conference on the civil suit once more details were available.