Kuala lumpur: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today emphasized the need for political leaders to maintain decorum and exercise caution in their public statements.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sultan Ibrahim urged politicians to avoid discussing sensitive issues, particularly during election periods, which often serve as a platform for individuals seeking prominence and public support. The King highlighted the potential for public anger when sensitive topics related to royalty, race, and religion are provoked.
Sultan Ibrahim, during his royal address at the investiture ceremony for Federal awards, honours, and medals at Istana Negara, advised against letting minor provocations spoil the larger endeavour. The event was held in conjunction with the King's official birthday celebration and was attended by notable figures such as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, and several Cabinet ministers, including Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The King also addressed the misuse of freedom of speech on social media, warning against its use as a platform for spreading slander and hatred. He highlighted the growing concern over the misuse of artificial intelligence technology to create fake news, particularly through deepfake videos that employ fabricated voices and images.
Sultan Ibrahim expressed his disappointment over the use of his images in fake content intended to mislead the public. He called on relevant authorities to enhance monitoring efforts and take appropriate actions to curb such activities.
During the ceremony, Sultan Ibrahim congratulated all recipients of this year's federal awards, honours, and medals, emphasizing that these accolades should serve as motivation to continue serving religion, race, and the country sincerely. He expressed appreciation to all involved in organizing the celebration and extended gratitude for the goodwill messages and prayers received from the people.
His Majesty's investiture ceremony marked the third occasion of conferring Federal awards, honours, and medals since his installation as the King of Malaysia on July 20, 2024. A total of 161 individuals were honoured in conjunction with this year's official birthday celebration of the King.