PETALING JAYA: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia’s call for unity is a powerful reminder that Malaysians are stronger and better when standing together as one people, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said unity is the cornerstone of the nation’s harmony, peace, progress and prosperity.
“It transcends political affiliations, religious beliefs and ethnic backgrounds.
“As Malaysians, we must never take for granted the harmony that has allowed us to thrive as a multiracial, multicultural society.
“His Majesty’s call is a powerful reminder that despite our differences, we are stronger and better when we stand together as one people, united in our shared hopes and common destiny,” Lee said in a statement on Tuesday (June 3).
He said the responsibility of fostering unity lies with every segment of society, but especially with those in leadership.
“Inclusive policies that protect the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of race, religion, or background must continue being implemented.
“National policies should be rooted in fairness and aimed at bridging gaps,” he said.
Politicians, Lee said, also carry a moral obligation to promote messages of inclusion, tolerance and mutual respect.
“They must rise above narrow interests and avoid rhetoric that incites division or undermines our national cohesion.
“Instead, they should work together, across party lines, to strengthen the unity that forms the bedrock of our nation’s stability,” he added.
He said civil society also has a crucial role to play in building bridges between communities, advocating for justice, and encouraging understanding through dialogue and engagement.
“Let us all respond to His Majesty’s call by rejecting divisiveness, embracing respect and compassion, and working hand-in-hand to build a Malaysia that is safe, inclusive, and united,” he said.
In a royal address at the investiture ceremony for 2025 in conjunction with His Majesty’s official birthday celebration at Istana Negara, the King reminded leaders not to politicise sensitive issues that could fuel discord within the society and threaten the nation’s stability.
Sultan Ibrahim said the existence of more political parties or factions within parties could lead to widening rifts among the people, resulting in escalating enmity among them.
“Use your wisdom before making any decisions. There is no greater gift to me than a united rakyat.
“I have mentioned before that there is a ‘virus’ that will strike our nation.
“Now, this virus has begun to spread and cannot be cured. I often speak of this so that we do not easily forget,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty also called on all Malaysians to keep fostering unity as a gift to him.
