By Selangor Journal Team
SHAH ALAM, Sept 21 — The Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Mais) has urged all members of the public to pay heed to Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj’s decree to stop sowing discord among the multiracial society.
As the state’s religious authoritative body, Mais chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof said the council plays a crucial role in maintaining unity among the people of Selangor.
In particular, he said it is incumbent of Muslims to respect all humankind, which is demanded by the religion.
“We must respect the various faiths, religions and races, especially in Selangor, to ensure that unity and harmony can be maintained,” he said in a statement today.
“Let us all avoid actions and culture of prejudice, slander, denunciation and punishment. This is so that whatever differences we have can add value to the prosperity of the state and country, and not become a point of disunity.”
In a statement on September 12, Sultan Sharafuddin had called on politicians across the divide to stop sowing disharmony among the public, rebuking them for their misplaced priorities.
His Royal Highness reminded political figures not to issue racial and religious statements for personal gains and encouraged them instead to focus on working together to improve the lives of ordinary Malaysians.
The Ruler, who is also chairman of the National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs, warned excessive polarisation can lead to radicalism and extremism within the society, potentially threatening national security.
Aziz said while Malaysia is home to a plural society made up of people from different ethnic backgrounds, every citizen is given the right and freedom to religion and culture.
He also reminded that Islam prohibits any action that can lead to division.
“In this regard, it is Mais’ hope that we can close ranks and unite for the sake of religion, race and country, for unity is the basis to harmony and development of a nation, while disunity and enmity will only lead to destruction.
