Seremban: The Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, has emphasised that the state administration must continue to function as usual to ensure orderly governance and safeguard the interests of the people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, His Royal Highness stated that the absence of the state dignitaries, such as the four chieftains and Tunku Besar Tampin, does not affect the legitimacy or smooth conduct of the State Legislative Assembly proceedings. The ruler expressed his hopes for continued prosperity and harmony under the leadership of Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and the state executive council.

Tuanku Muhriz highlighted Negeri Sembilan's milestone as the first Malaysian state to achieve zero hardcore poverty consistently since 2023. This achievement, he noted, was not temporary but sustained through targeted interventions and close monitoring, with thousands of heads of households lifted out of poverty over the years.

The ruler stressed that eradicating hardcore poverty should be seen as a commitment to preserving the dignity and wellbeing of the people, urging intensified efforts to ensure no one is left behind. He also praised the state's educational achievements and expressed pride in the performance of local schools and their contribution to the state's reputation.

Tuanku Muhriz announced the declaration of Visit Negeri Sembilan Year, aiming to bolster tourism as a pillar of sustainable economic growth. He highlighted the importance of initiatives in coastal tourism, ecotourism, and the Adat Perpatih heritage, calling for consistent efforts in the sector.

Furthermore, Tuanku Muhriz, as Head of Islam in the state, called for a focus on strengthening the economy and knowledge of Muslims, enhancing the role of mosques and surau in spreading Islam.