Selangor: The Selangor government has asserted its unwavering stance on issues concerning race, religion, and royalty (3R), emphasizing the potential threat these matters pose to the state’s harmony and unity. Selangor Rural Development, Unity and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Rizam Ismail highlighted the importance of addressing racial and religious sensitivities with firm and prudent measures, acknowledging Selangor’s role as a pivotal national hub characterized by a diverse and densely populated society.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rizam underscored the need for Selangor to serve as a model of unity both nationally and globally. He stressed the state’s continuous collaboration with the Ministry of National Unity through various awareness and unity initiatives. Rizam made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the Santuni MADANI and Misi Jelajah Peduli Ummah: Sejahtera Insan Al-Falah programmes at the As-Syukriah Mosque, Parit 8 Gambut, Sungai Panjang.

The statement came in response to a report highlighting data from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which identified 40,515 pieces of potentially fake news content from 2023 to May this year. Of these, 11,819 were related to 3R content, with 7,571 being deleted. Rizam emphasized the proactive measures being taken, such as strengthening Rukun Tetangga Areas, particularly in rural regions, to promote patriotism and racial unity.

While no official complaints regarding 3R issues have been recorded thus far, Rizam noted minor community-related matters that have been addressed at the local level. Earlier, he commended the programme organized by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) alongside the Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisation (MAPIM) for effectively bridging gaps between the public and government agencies.

The programme, initiated on June 21, included various activities catering to different age groups, such as health screenings, dakwah sessions, sports, e-sports competitions, and exhibitions by government agencies. JAWI director Hanifuddin Roslan, also present at the event, announced cash contributions of RM220 each to 253 eligible tithe recipients identified through the Selangor Zakat Board.

Additionally, the Zakat Collection Centre of the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council presented mock cheques totaling RM10,000 to the As-Syukriah Mosque, RM5,000 to five suraus, and RM5,000 to the Desa Permai Parit 8 Quran and Fardhu Ain Integration Class. Hanifuddin highlighted this programme as JAWI’s second corporate social responsibility initiative outside its administrative region this year, with plans for more locations in the future.