IPOH: Desperate individuals are seeking recognition as champions of their community or faith by hijacking and sensationalising issues related to race and religion, says Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
Citing the recent relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur to make way for the construction of a mosque, the Perak Sultan said the matter continues to echo in public discourse, sowing discord and provoking animosity among the people.
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"Although a long-standing impasse spanning over a decade was ultimately resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding among the involved parties, certain quarters persist in sensationalising the issue.
"What had been settled amicably is now being stirred, debated and politicised in ways that unsettle public sentiment," he said in his royal address when opening the first meeting of the third year of the 15th Perak State Legislative Assembly at the state secretariat building here on Tuesday (April 15).
"At times, minor and localised matters relating to religion and ethnicity are deliberately magnified, manipulated to the extent that they risk igniting wider tensions," His Royal Highness added.
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Sultan Nazrin said the country is still facing the challenge of finding a "magic spell" or a successful formula to manage disputes in our diverse society in a fair, just and effective manner.
"We are still groping in the dark, searching for the right approach to help all parties understand one another, to encourage rationality, and to view matters through the lens of unity and harmony, based on the values of humanity that cherish peace.
"It is deeply saddening that hate-driven politics have become a preferred choice, and there are concerns that the nation may face a future where its people are divided, harbouring hatred and animosity towards each other," he said.
"The seeds of hatred are being sown across the nation, eroding our moral compass and diminishing our empathy when dealing with those who hold differing views.
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"It is apparent that the culture of slander is becoming more rampant, with a growing acceptance of actions that seek to demean and disgrace political opponents.
"The values of human decency and humanity seem to be fading away, and the truth itself appears to have lost its value and significance," Sultan Nazrin added.
His Royal Highness also called on the people to continue fostering unity, mutual respect and the spirit of tolerance to maintain stability and peace, which are shared responsibilities entrusted to all – the people and leaders alike.
"Each of us carries this responsibility.
"We must remain vigilant, choosing to meet challenges not with hostility or provocation, but with wisdom and a steadfast commitment to peaceful resolution," His Royal Highness said.
