KUALA LUMPUR: Negeri Sembilan Umno chief Jalaluddin Alias today expressed confidence that the issue of the absence of a state executive council in his state will be resolved.
During the debate on the 2027 budget in the Dewan Rakyat, Jalaluddin (BN-Jelebu) was interrupted by Rosol Wahid (PN-Hulu Terengganu), who asked whether the absence of a new state executive council would hamper development.
"Hulu Terengganu, don't worry ... it will be resolved. Let Negeri Sembilan resolve the state's own problems. God willing, let us pray together," he said, without giving a timeline.
Negeri Sembilan has been without a state executive council since Sept 20, when Yang Dipertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir revoked the appointments of 10 state executive councillors for breaching their oaths of office.
The dismissal followed a statement they issued five days earlier endorsing a declaration that sought to remove Tuanku Muhriz as Yang Dipertuan Besar.
Former menteri besar Aminuddin Harun, now Negeri Sembilan PKR chief, has said the lack of a state executive council is holding up investment and business matters that need state approval.
He said the state government had been unable to function normally nearly two months after taking office, with key decisions on policy and approvals left pending.
On the economy, Jalaluddin said Negeri Sembilan's economy needed further development, noting it was valued at RM58 billion last year, according to the statistics department.
He suggested that the federal government support the state's economic corridor development with adequate transport and utility networks, logistical facilities, and a skilled workforce.
Socso for interns
Jalaluddin also called for students undergoing internships in heavy industries to be made eligible for Socso contributions.
He cited a case in his constituency in which a student intern died in a road accident on the way to work, and the family could not claim compensation as the victim was not a Socso contributor.
Such cases, he said, could create hardship for poor families whose children were their only hope.