Ismail Lasim pledges fair, transparent administration to honour public trust as new Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar.
KUALA PILAH: Newly appointed Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim has pledged to honour the trust and confidence placed in him by the people by carrying out his administrative responsibilities fairly, transparently and effectively for the well-being and progress of the state.
He said the mandate given by the people in yesterday’s 16th Negeri Sembilan State Election represented a great responsibility, which he accepted with humility and gratitude.
“The people’s trust is not merely an honour, but a call to prove that the government entrusted with the mandate will work diligently, listen to the people’s aspirations and carry out its responsibilities fairly, transparently and effectively.
“I give my assurance that the trust and confidence placed in me will always be safeguarded and upheld to the best of my ability. Together with the entire state leadership, I will strive to build a government that listens, serves and works for the well-being of the people and the progress of the state,” he said.
He said this in his oath of allegiance speech during the swearing-in ceremony as the new Menteri Besar before the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, at Istana Besar Seri Menanti here today.
Ismail also pledged to uphold the sovereignty of the Yang Dipertuan Besar, preserve the dignity of the royal institution and defend the principles of the Federal Constitution and the Constitution of the State of Negeri Sembilan.
“I will also always uphold Your Highness’ decrees, advice, views and guidance in carrying out all matters and responsibilities of the state administration, in line with the spirit of the Constitutional Monarchy and Parliamentary Democracy,” he said.
He said Negeri Sembilan possessed a unique history, heritage and customary system, adding that the uniqueness of Adat Perpatih, founded on the values of consensus, justice, unity and wisdom, must continue to be preserved and passed on to future generations.
He would ensure that all state government policies and actions remained people-centric, grounded in justice, guided by integrity and implemented transparently and responsibly. The state’s development would continue in a sustainable, comprehensive and inclusive manner so that progress could be enjoyed by all, whether in urban or rural areas.
“At the same time, the state government will continue to strengthen the economy, attract quality investments, create employment opportunities, improve the people’s standard of living, and enhance education, healthcare, housing, agriculture and social well-being,” he said.
He said true progress should not be measured solely by infrastructure development and economic growth, but also by the well-being of the people, social harmony, the strength of institutions, and public confidence in the government and the administrative system.
To ensure the smooth running of the administration, he pledged to uphold the principles of trust, integrity, efficiency and transparency while ensuring the state civil service continued to serve with dedication, professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility. He also stressed the importance of consensus and unity by always listening to views and accepting constructive criticism for the long-term interests of the state.
In addition, he pledged to strengthen close and harmonious ties between the Royal Institution, the state government, the Federal Government, the civil service, the private sector, community leaders and the people.
Ismail sought the guidance, advice and counsel of Tuanku Muhriz in carrying out his responsibilities and asked for the people’s prayers that he be granted strength, patience and wisdom. He also expressed his appreciation and gratitude to former Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun for his service, contributions, leadership and dedication while heading the state government, saying his efforts in driving the state’s development would always be remembered.
“The experience gained and the development foundation that has been built will serve as a valuable platform and continuity in our efforts to advance the progress and prosperity of Negeri Sembilan,” he said.
