Kuala lumpur: More than five decades after its introduction as the foundation of national unity, the Rukun Negara is still not being fully embraced, as issues involving race, religion, and national institutions continue to generate debate in the public sphere.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the call by His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, on the importance of adhering to the principles of the Rukun Negara has been described by experts as a timely reminder for Malaysians to return to the nation-building values that underpin harmony, stability, and national unity.
Legal and constitutional expert Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Shamrahayu Abdul Aziz stated that the King's decree aligns with the status of the Rukun Negara as the nation's philosophy, outlining national aspirations and principles that every Malaysian should uphold. "Therefore, adhering to the Rukun Negara also means upholding the Monarchy, which is one of the pillars of the country's system of governance," she explained. Shamrahayu emphasized the importance of citizens knowing, understanding, and internalizing the essence of the Rukun Negara to realize the aspiration of building a united nation.
Earlier, Sultan Ibrahim highlighted that the Rukun Negara, introduced on August 31, 1970, represents the pledge and commitment of every Malaysian to rebuild racial unity and ensure social harmony. The King reminded Malaysians to learn from the May 13, 1969 racial riots, which erupted due to the actions of individuals who insulted others and lost respect for fellow citizens and the country's sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian noted that the Rukun Negara is not merely a declaration recited at assemblies or official events but a social contract and moral compass that guides Malaysians in living harmoniously within a diverse society. The USM Centre for Policy Research and International Studies senior lecturer elaborated on the Rukun Negara's five principles, which educate citizens to respect religion, remain loyal to the nation, uphold the Constitution, obey the law, and practice courtesy and morality.
He emphasized that if truly embraced, the Rukun Negara becomes a shield against division, radicalism, and politics of hatred. "Unity does not exist because we are the same, but because we hold on to the same principles. That is the true strength of the Rukun Negara," he remarked. Prof Sivamurugan added that the Rukun Negara reminds Malaysians that being a citizen is not merely about sharing the same homeland but also about sharing common values, responsibilities and a commitment to preserving national harmony.