KUALA LUMPUR: Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has thanked the rakyat for their wishes and prayers on his 80th birthday this year, saying he looks forward next year to marking the 25th anniversary of his reign as the Sultan of Selangor.
His Royal Highness said these milestones were not his alone "but they belong to the people of Selangor, who have stood with me through times of progress and challenge, and who have worked hand in hand to build our beloved state into what it is today. For this, I express my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude.”
Looking back at the past years, the Ruler said he had witnessed Selangor grow into a vibrant, modern, and prosperous state - a home to people of many races, religions, and backgrounds.
"For me, it is always about the people. The people come first. Selangor is our home.
"This diversity is our strength, but it must always be protected by the values of respect, moderation, and mutual understanding.
"I wish to remind all my subjects that harmony and unity do not happen by chance - they are the result of patience, tolerance, and a sincere desire to live peacefully together,’’ Sultan Sharafuddin said in an interview with Bernama.
"My wish for Selangor is simple - let us reject all forms of extremism, hate speech, and division, whether in our daily lives or on social media. Instead, let us embrace knowledge, compassion, and integrity as our guiding principles.
"This will be the best birthday gift for me on my 80th birthday.
"As your Sultan, my hope and prayer are that Selangor continues to prosper with fairness, justice, and good governance,’’ the Ruler added.
His Royal Highness said this had been a memorable year as the wedding reception of Raja Muda Tengku Amir Shah and Datin Paduka Seri Afzaa Fadini Abdul Aziz went smoothly.
"I wish to thank the people of Selangor for their wonderful wishes and blessings to the couple,” said Sultan Sharafuddin. - Bernama
> Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai is the Chairman of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama)
