Sultan Nazrin: Political exploitation of race and religion threatens national unity and must be quickly contained

KUALA KANGSAR, Nov 9 — 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 said that when religion and ethnicity were used as legal tender for political gain, excessive rhetoric masked in religious fervor and provocative slogans linked to ethnic identities became more common.

“Such rhetoric and slogans are like sparks that could ignite a spark – if not quickly controlled, they risk igniting a conflagration of hostility that could devastate our nation,” His Royal Highness said.

Sultan Nazrin made these remarks during his speech at the Pledge of Royalty and Investiture Ceremony, along with his 68th birthday celebration here today at Istana Iskandariah.

The Perak ruler added that continued provocations regarding race and religion could sow mistrust among citizens, pushing them further away from the path of unity.

At this time, Sultan Nazrin said the nation needs wise and prudent leadership that will engender a sense of ease and comfort among the people, free from prejudice and suspicion, and instead promote a candid appreciation of Malaysia’s diversity.

The Sultan said that amid the sensational issues of religion and ethnicity, there is an increasing trend of individuals unashamedly mocking the royal institution.

“The role of the Ruler, in addition to discharging constitutional responsibilities, is critical in bridging tradition with modernization, and enlivening the country’s rich history and civilizational legacy.

“This legacy, shaped by respectful cultural practices, refined character and the beauty of language, is the foundation for building a disciplined, advanced, modern and progressive nation. This role is extremely relevant and becomes even more important as our society faces various forms of cultural subversion and sabotage.

“The civilization we have built is far too valuable to allow it to crumble due to the actions of individuals and organizations with a weak understanding of tradition and a hollow concept of decorum.

“Their misguided intellect cannot be followed, nor can their ignorance be taught, yet they possess an overwhelming desire to introduce a new order, often making inappropriate statements and behaving while promoting actions that are in stark contradiction with the decorum and refinement of our customs,” he said.

Therefore, Sultan Nazrin called on the people to reject cultural encroachment and firmly oppose both words and actions that violate the boundaries of custom and decorum.

“We cannot allow anyone to become uncivilized or live without manners and respect for our heritage,” he said. – Bernama