By Danial Dzulkifly
SHAH ALAM, Sept 12 – Selangor Ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj has once again called on politicians across the divide to stop sowing disharmony among the public, rebuking them for their misplaced priorities.
In a statement today, 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.
“I urge all political leaders, particularly seasoned and veteran figures, not to sow division among our people but to instil and promote unity across all races and religions. This is vital for our nation’s well-being.
“Let us cherish and safeguard our country as it is our homeland. It is paramount we defend its prosperity and sovereignty,’’ he said
Sultan Sharafudin, who is also the chairman of the National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI), warned excessive polarisation can lead to radicalism and extremism within the society, potentially threatening national security.
To that end, he said leaders should foster a strong spirit of unity among the diverse society, as every race in this country plays a crucial role in the nation’s cultural and economic development.
“Any barriers and differences between races and religions should be overcome by introducing programmes that can bridge the gap and avoid existing prejudices.
“The young generation, being the nation’s heirs, should be instilled with the spirit of compromise and an understanding of the cultures and religions practised in our country,’’ he said.
Sultan Sharafudin also highlighted historical instances where racial and religious polarisation has led to the downfall of a nation.
He reminded that the existence of such discord has proven to have led to hatred and division among citizens, ultimately leading to prolonged civil wars that can cripple and destroy a nation.
“Is this what we want to see after our nation has achieved 66 years of independence?
“Do we want to see our rapid economic development and the strong unity among races and religions that we have built collapse due to the attitudes of certain political leaders who only think of their own interests or the interests of a particular community alone? ” he questioned.
The state ruler’s statement today came after the conclusion of the Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections which saw several racially and religiously divisive statements issued by politicians during the electoral campaign.
