SEREMBAN, NEGERI SEMBILAN: Ismail Lasim has been appointed new chief minister for Negeri Sembilan, following a decisive victory by the Barisan Nasional (BN)-Perikatan Nasional (PN) alliance in the state election that marks the latest setback for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his Pakatan Harapan (PH) pact. A veteran United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) leader, the 67-year-old was sworn in before state ruler Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir at Istana Besar Seri Menanti on Sunday (Aug 2), local media reported. Ismail had served as UMNO state information chief and Kuala Pilah chief. “This is to express our gratitude to all who had participated and worked hard during the recent campaign for the state election,” he told reporters during a press conference following his swearing-in ceremony. "Many people are still exhausted, so tomorrow provides an opportunity for everyone to take a break," he added.