KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim describes the wise and just reign of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, as a lasting symbol of the greatness and unity of the country.
“The decrees by His Majesty have consistently served as a noble guide for the Madani government in formulating policies and carrying out its responsibilities, upholding the aspirations of the people and ensuring that the wellbeing of all segments of society is preserved and uplifted,” he said.
The Prime Minister said this in a speech at the investiture ceremony where Sultan Ibrahim presented federal awards, stars and medals in conjunction with His Majesty’s official birthday celebration at Istana Negara yesterday, reported Bernama.
In congratulating Sultan Ibrahim on the occasion of His Majesty’s official birthday, Anwar said he and all the Malaysian people prayed for His Majesty, Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, as well as the entire Royal Family, to be blessed with long-lasting health and to always be under the protection and blessings of Allah.
The Prime Minister stressed that national unity is no longer an option, but rather a key requirement to ensure the continuity of the country’s development.
He said unity is the foundation of a country’s development and is a catalyst for Malaysia’s progress.
“Malaysia will only remain strong if we stand together united.
“Stability and national unity are the basic conditions for all progress. In a world that is rapidly changing and full of challenges, unity is not an option, it is a necessity,” he said.
Anwar said the Federal Government, under the auspices and guidance of His Majesty, will continue to be committed to implementing a comprehensive reform agenda based on the Madani principles.
Anwar also said Malaysia will remain steadfast in facing various global challenges and continue to play a role as the catalyst and leader of regional diplomacy through its Asean 2025 chairmanship.
He said although the world is facing various challenges, including geopolitical tensions and trade tariffs, Malaysia remains firmly anchored.
“Malaysia is among the earliest countries to act in protecting the interests of industry and businesses and the welfare of the people.
“Comprehensive and inclusive strategic measures have been taken, with the involvement of various parties to ensure the country remains economically stable and competitive,” he said.
The Prime Minister also described this year’s Asean Summit as the best in the history of Asean, when Malaysia as chairman brought together three giants – namely the Gulf States or Gulf Cooperation Council, China and Asean – to ensure the survival of civilisation while spurring the economy of the people and country.