SEREMBAN: Negri Sembilan may introduce deputy exco positions to strengthen state administration following its recent election victory, says Mentri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim.
Speaking on his first day at Wisma Negri, Ismail revealed that the new deputy roles would target key portfolios, though the total number of full executive council members will remain capped at 10.
"Given our convincing victory in the state election, I am considering deputy exco posts for specific important portfolios," Ismail said on Tuesday (Aug 4). "A final decision will be made over the next few days."
The appointment of deputy excos would mark a major structural shift for Negri Sembilan, which has historically operated without them.
Ismail noted that the full exco lineup would be officially announced between Friday (Aug 7) and Monday (Aug 9), pending the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.
Addressing regional fairness, Ismail emphasised that portfolio allocations will be geographically balanced across the state. "We cannot have multiple exco members coming from the same district," he explained.
He declined to confirm whether the position of "Senior Exco", held in the previous term by state Umno chief Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias, would be retained, stating that discussions are ongoing.
Ismail also dismissed rumours that certain proposed assemblymen had been rejected from the final exco shortlist, stating he was unaware of any rejections.
