KUALA KANGSAR: The continued use of religious and racial issues as political tools poses a significant threat to national unity and must be curbed immediately, said the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah. Sultan Nazrin emphasized that when religion and ethnicity are exploited for political gain, it results in excessive rhetoric masked in religious fervor and provocative slogans linked with ethnic identities, which become more prevalent.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sultan Nazrin remarked that such rhetoric and slogans are akin to embers that can ignite a spark which, if not swiftly contained, risk igniting a conflagration of animosity capable of devastating the nation. He made these remarks during his address at the Pledge of Royalty and Investiture Ceremony in conjunction with his 68th birthday celebration at Istana Iskandariah.
The Perak Ruler further noted that continued provocations involving race and religion could sow distrust among citizens, causing them to drift further from the path of unity.
At this juncture, Sultan Nazrin stressed the need for wise and prudent leadership that instills a sense of ease and comfort among the people, free from prejudice and suspicion, fostering an open-minded appreciation for Malaysia’s diversity.
Amid the sensationalized issues of religion and ethnicity, Sultan Nazrin pointed out an increasing trend of individuals who unabashedly mock the royal institution. He highlighted that the Ruler’s role, beyond fulfilling constitutional responsibilities, is vital in bridging tradition with modernization and enlivening the nation’s rich history and civilizational legacy.
Sultan Nazrin asserted that this legacy, shaped through respectful cultural practices, refined character, and the beauty of language, forms the foundation for building a disciplined, advanced, modern, and progressive nation. This role, he said, grows exceedingly relevant as society faces various forms of cultural subversion and sabotage.
He warned that the civilization built is far too valuable to be allow
ed to crumble due to the actions of individuals and organizations with a tenuous grasp of tradition and a hollow understanding of decorum. Their misguided intellect cannot be followed, nor can their ignorance be taught, yet they possess an overwhelming desire to introduce new order, often voicing and behaving inappropriately while promoting actions that starkly contradict the decorum and refinement of customs.
Sultan Nazrin called on the people to reject cultural encroachment and firmly oppose both words and deeds that violate the boundaries of custom and decorum. He urged that no one should be permitted to become uncivilized or live devoid of manners and respect for heritage.