KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has reminded leaders not to politicise sensitive issues that could fuel discord within the society and threaten the nation’s stability.
His Majesty stated that 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.
Sultan Ibrahim was speaking during the royal address at the investiture ceremony for 2025 in conjunction with His Majesty’s official birthday celebration at Istana Negara, reported Bernama.
Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, was also in attendance.
Present at the ceremony were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and Cabinet Ministers.
His Majesty also called on all Malaysians to keep fostering unity as a gift to him.
The King went on to express his appreciation for the Madani government and its civil servants, who have worked hard to manage the country’s economy and development.
Sultan Ibrahim said the success of last month’s Asean Summit was proof of the nation’s leadership’s ability to strengthen regional and international cooperation.
“Although there are those who underestimate Malaysia’s capabilities, with hard work and a spirit of cooperation, especially by civil servants, all challenges and obstacles have been successfully overcome,” said His Majesty.
Sultan Ibrahim also reminded civil servants to provide excellent service and practise the second principle of the Rukun Negara, which is “Loyalty to King and Country”.
“Loyalty does not mean worship, but honesty and trust in carrying out the duties and responsibilities given, and not betraying the country and the people’s trust,” said His Majesty.
The King stressed that civil servants must be free from the influence of political parties, be neutral, and always prioritise the interests of the country and the people.
“Government officials must ensure that every decision made is in accordance with the conditions and regulations set, not according to the dictates of politicians.
“Every expenditure must also be closely controlled and cannot be used as desired by ministers or MPs to fish for votes, to the point of causing the government’s debt to increase,” said the King.
Sultan Ibrahim also called on all enforcement agencies to carry out their duties with full integrity so that the people do not lose trust and continue to respect the uniform they wear.
