Military honours: Tuanku Muhriz inspecting the Guard of Honour during the ceremony held in conjunction with the Negri Ruler’s 78th birthday celebration at the grounds of Istana Besar Seri Menanti. — Bernama
KUALA PILAH: The Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, has voiced deep concern over the growing prevalence of corruption and those who support individuals convicted of graft.
Describing corruption as the foremost enemy of justice, trust and the nation’s future, the Ruler said he is shocked and disheartened that some still rally behind those found guilty of serious corruption offences, as if such acts are acceptable or forgiveable.
“Such attitudes reflect not only a failure to grasp the destructive impact of corruption on institutional integrity and society’s moral foundations, but is also a serious reflection of one’s faith, principles and values,” the Ruler remarked at the investiture ceremony in conjunction with his 78th birthday at Istana Besar Seri Menanti here yesterday.
Also in attendance was the Tunku Ampuan Besar of Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Aishah Rohani Almarhum Tengku Besar Mahmud.
Tuanku Muhriz, Bernama reported, urged those who back corrupt offenders to undertake self-reflection and reassess their beliefs, adding that any tolerance or compromise on corruption runs counter to truth, justice and trust, and is wholly unacceptable in a nation governed by the rule of law.
The Ruler also called for continued efforts to strengthen measures to address the cost of living so that nobody in the state is left behind, mainly from the low- and middle-income groups.
Tuanku Muhriz said the progress achieved in reducing extreme poverty must be sustained through targeted assistance, effective price controls, strengthened food security and systematic expansion of income-generating opportunities.
“I call upon the people to practise prudent spending, enhance their knowledge and skills, and support state government initiatives.
“At the same time, as a key thrust to improve the quality of life, the government must intensify the provision of healthcare facilities and enhance the quality of health services.”
The Ruler also expressed hope that the proposed construction of Hospital Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) in Nilai would be given due consideration, as it has the potential to further enhance healthcare services, besides supporting the upgrading and expansion of Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar in Seremban.
On education, His Royal Highness said the state is showing an encouraging upward trend, reflecting the continuous commitment of all parties.
“I am deeply concerned about the increasingly worrying social problems affecting the younger generation such as drug abuse, gang activity and various negative behaviours which could jeopardise their future.”
Tuanku Muhriz said education remains the most important foundation in shaping the character and identity of children, and expressed support for the continuous efforts of the Negri Sembilan Islamic Religious Council.
His Royal Highness also said students should be encouraged to actively participate in associations and clubs to build character and leadership skills.
