Datuk Ismail Lasim has been appointed to lead three major portfolios in the Negeri Sembilan state government for the 2026-2031 term: Islamic Religious Affairs and Security; Finance, Land and Natural Resources; and Investment, Infrastructure, Utilities, Communications and FELDA [1, 2, 3].
The new state government appointed 10 State Government Councilors, with two existing executive council (Exco) members retained. Datuk Mohd Faizal Ramli from Linggi continues as Rural Development and Regional Development Exco, while Mustapha Nagoor from Palong remains Youth and Sports Development Exco [1, 2, 3].
Ismail Lasim told the Exco members to take their responsibilities seriously in maintaining the welfare and interests of the people. He said, "I am confident and believe that all ranks are pleased with the Tuanku (Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir) understanding how great our responsibility is to maintain harmony and progress of Negeri Sembilan. It is more important to ensure the well-being of the people who have given us their votes and confidence" [1, 2, 3].
Ismail also stated that the party will appoint an officer from the Indian community with Exco status under the Menteri Besar's Office. The candidate, nominated by the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), will be confirmed later in an Exco meeting. He explained, "This is to give opportunities to various races (in the state government)...the representative is from MIC and the name of the candidate has been submitted by the party...when appointed) we will decide later in the Exco meeting" [1, 2, 3].
The state government is also considering appointing a representative from the Orang Asli community and will consult the Orang Asli Development Department (Jakoa) to identify a suitable candidate [1, 2, 3].
Other appointed Exco members include Datuk Zaifulbahri Idris from Chembong, responsible for Education, Higher Education and Human Capital, and Siow Kong Choon from Chennah as Local Government Development, Housing and Non-Muslim Affairs Exco [1, 2, 3].
All Exco members were sworn in on August 7 before the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir at Istana Besar Seri Menanti [1, 2, 3].
