KUALA LUMPUR: The harmony enjoyed by the country and Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, is in the prayers of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia.
In their New Year greeting on Facebook, the royal couple expressed their wish that unity and harmony in the country will be everlasting.
“May the people and the country be showered with blessings and prosperity, while being protected from calamities and tragedies,” read the post on Sultan Ibrahim’s official page.
Separately, Selangor Ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah wants warring factions and individuals to put a stop to their shenanigans as the new year begins.
“I do not want fighting, especially among leaders, business communities and civil servants who are greedy for power and wealth.
“I have always observed that such conflicts are often the reason behind malicious slander and fights which spread false information, especially on social media,’’ Sultan Sharafuddin said in his annual New Year address.
The Ruler added that he has been concerned lately with the widespread attempts of character assassinations.
“Generally, character assassination only happens during the election period but I find it is now being used to destroy trust and bring down certain individuals.
“I would like to advise the people to be wise in evaluating and studying (the situation) first before creating preconceptions and believing in the slander created to character assassinate,’’ said Sultan Sharafuddin.
The Ruler said he was worried that if not curtailed, such conduct could create a bad culture and adversely affect communal harmony.
Sultan Sharafuddin suggested that in the event there was criticism and dissatisfaction among the people, they should be turned into constructive suggestions to benefit everyone.
His Royal Highness also wanted corruption to be countered at all levels with the increase in enforcement and prioritisation of integrity.
“Remember that a civilisation can collapse because of widespread and uncontrolled corruption.
“I believe that to be a developed nation, the people must respect each other, be positive-minded as well as united.
“If disagreements continue, won’t the efforts to develop the country be interrupted?’’ asked the Ruler.
Sultan Sharafuddin said as a result, the people would be the ones suffering due to the arrogance and selfishness of certain quarters.
The Ruler said he was certain that if the people combined their efforts and energy, strengthened their self-resolve and were determined to contribute towards the country’s progress, Malaysia would become a more progressive and respected nation this year.
“I hope 2025 will bring more development and prosperity to all.
“In conjunction with the new year, I urge everyone regardless of religion, race and political leanings to foster a new resolution to focus more on efforts to develop the economy and work hard towards developing the country in every aspect,’’ said Sultan Sharafuddin.
Sultan Sharafuddin and Tengku Permaisuri Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin wished all Selangorians as well as Malaysians a Happy New Year 2025.
