JOHOR BAHRU (May 17): Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said Umno appears to have “lost its direction” amid ongoing political turmoil in the state.
He said the Pakatan Harapan (PH) convention should focus on strengthening the coalition’s machinery and readiness, particularly ahead of upcoming elections in Johor, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan.
“We ourselves can see that they appear directionless today because what they had planned did not become reality,” he told The Edge on the sidelines of the PH convention in Johor Bahru on Sunday.
Aminuddin also called for space to resolve issues involving traditional institutions internally, stressing that such matters should not be interfered with by the federal government.
“I hope the public will give some time to ensure matters involving traditional institutions and customs can be resolved internally. Matters involving adat and traditional institutions are not interfered with by the federal government, and this has long been the principle,” he said.
The political crisis in Negeri Sembilan escalated after all 14 Umno and Barisan Nasional assemblymen withdrew support for the state government led by Aminuddin, resulting in four vacancies in the state executive council.
However, Aminuddin retained his position as menteri besar after receiving the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawi, to continue leading the administration.
Aminuddin described the episode in Negeri Sembilan as a “betrayal” by political allies who may shift positions or abandon cooperation.
“We want to be good to everyone, but we also have feelings, dignity and principles to defend,” he said, adding that political partners could change positions or leave at any time.
He questioned whether such relationships could still be considered as genuine political partnerships or a shared struggle, and called for a focus on grassroots organisation and discipline.
Aminuddin also urged delegates to continue ground mobilisation efforts across constituencies and to refocus on party work and electoral preparation.
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