SEREMBAN, July 20, 2026 — Defence Minister and UMNO Vice-President Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has urged restraint during the Negeri Sembilan state election campaign, stating there is no need to pressure or “desak” for changes in federal ministerial positions as the power to appoint and decide on such roles lies solely with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking to reporters while campaigning ahead of the August 1 polling day for the 16th Negeri Sembilan state election (PRN N9), Khaled emphasised that external urging or demands regarding cabinet positions are unnecessary.
“Tak payah desak, kuasa PM tentu jawatan menteri,” he said, according to Free Malaysia Today’s report.
The statement comes amid ongoing political discussions and occasional calls within and outside the unity government regarding ministerial accountability, particularly following recent state polls in Johor and related controversies involving federal ministers.
The Negeri Sembilan election is being closely watched as both Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN) seek to strengthen their positions. PH is aiming for a stable majority, while BN, with Khaled as a prominent voice, is pushing for gains.
Khaled has also called on voters to decisively reject Bersatu in the state, describing its presence as disruptive. He stressed focusing on policy issues and development rather than personal attacks or internal coalition friction during the campaign period.
Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim has previously reminded federal ministers, deputy ministers, and agency heads holding government positions to maintain discipline. He indicated that those using their federal roles to attack partners in the unity government during state campaigns should consider stepping down, while remaining open to contesting on state-specific issues.
The remarks align with efforts to keep the focus on governance and voter concerns rather than cabinet reshuffles or resignations amid the state polls. Earlier tensions, including statements by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming about resigning under certain hypothetical scenarios post-Johor election, had sparked debate, with some UMNO figures calling for accountability.
Khaled’s intervention appears aimed at de-escalating such narratives, reinforcing that cabinet composition remains the Prime Minister’s constitutional prerogative under Malaysia’s parliamentary system.
The election campaign continues with nomination day set for July 18 and early voting on July 28. Both major coalitions are actively mobilising supporters across the 36 state seats.
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