KUALA PILAH – Dato’ Ismail Lasim has officially assumed the role of Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan following a formal swearing-in ceremony at the Istana Besar Seri Menanti.
The 63-year-old politician, who serves as the State Assemblyman for Juasseh, took his oath of office before the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, on Sunday morning.
The solemn event commenced at 11.20 am in the Balairung Seri, marking the beginning of a new administrative chapter for the state.
The ceremony was attended by key members of the royal family, including the Tunku Ampuan Besar, Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud, and the Tunku Besar of Seri Menanti, Tunku Ali Redhauddin Tuanku Muhriz.
Also present was the Tunku Panglima Besar, Tunku Zain Al-‘Abidin Tuanku Muhriz, underscoring the significance of the occasion within the state’s traditional hierarchy.
High-ranking traditional leaders also witnessed the proceedings. The Undang of Luak Sungei Ujong and the Undang of Luak Rembau were in attendance, reflecting the unique constitutional structure of Negeri Sembilan, which blends modern democratic governance with customary adat laws.
Their presence highlighted the continued respect for traditional institutions in the state’s political landscape.
Ismail Lasim, the chief of the Kuala Pilah UMNO Division, enters the top executive post with considerable experience in state administration. In the previous government, he held the portfolio for Education and Human Capital as an Executive Councillor (Exco).
His long-standing service in the state assembly includes representing the Senaling constituency from 1999 to 2018 and again from 2023 to 2026. Between 2018 and 2023, he served as the assemblyman for Juasseh, the seat he currently holds.
His appointment follows a decisive victory in the 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election (PRN). In a three-cornered contest for the Juasseh seat, Ismail secured 6,907 votes, defeating Mohd Aidil Abdullah of Pakatan Harapan, who received 2,816 votes, and Mohd Zuhaimi Md Yusof of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia, who garnered 506 votes.
This substantial margin demonstrated strong local support for his candidacy and the coalition he represents.
Following the ceremony, the new Menteri Besar expressed his gratitude and commitment to public service. He thanked the Yang di-Pertuan Besar for the confidence placed in him to lead the state administration.
“Alhamdulillah. His Royal Highness the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir consented to attend the Inauguration and Swearing-in Ceremony of the Most Honorable Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus which took place at the Balairung Seri, Istana Besar Seri Menanti,” he stated.
He further acknowledged the broader support system that facilitated his appointment. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to His Majesty the King for his gracious approval in appointing me as the Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus.”
Looking ahead, Ismail outlined his approach to governance, emphasising integrity and dedication to the welfare of the people. “God willing, I will fulfil the trust bestowed upon me with full sincerity, integrity and responsibility and will do my utmost to preserve the welfare and well-being of all the people of Negeri Sembilan,” he said.
He also extended thanks to his supporters and the general public. “I would also like to express my deepest appreciation to all parties for their prayers, support and trust.”
The transition of power comes at a time when the state is focusing on economic development and social harmony. As the head of the state government, Ismail will be responsible for overseeing various portfolios and implementing policies aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.
His background in education and human capital may influence future initiatives in skills development and educational infrastructure.
The smooth conduct of the swearing-in ceremony reflects the stability of the state’s political environment. With the support of the royal institution and traditional leaders, the new administration is poised to address contemporary challenges while respecting the cultural heritage of Negeri Sembilan.
As Ismail begins his tenure, attention will turn to his cabinet appointments and initial policy directions. The expectations from the electorate are high, given the clear mandate received during the recent elections.
His ability to unite different factions and deliver on campaign promises will be closely monitored in the coming months.
