KUALA LUMPUR: All parties must comply with the law, including on matters involving land use and the construction of houses of worship, decrees His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
His Majesty said religious issues should not be politicised in ways that could undermine harmony, unity and stability in Malaysia’s multiracial society.
“Every issue related to land use and the construction of houses of worship must be addressed in accordance with the law and through the same legal rules and channels applied to the building of mosques, churches and temples,” Sultan Ibrahim said.
The King recalled his experience in January 2018, when he personally acted as a mediator in resolving a temple demolition issue in Johor in a peaceful, prudent and lawful manner.
“I resolved the matter amicably and advised all parties involved to always abide by the law to avoid any untoward incidents and to safeguard public order.
“Islam emphasises mutual respect among people and does not prevent followers of other religions from practising their beliefs and performing their religious rites,” His Majesty said in a post on Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s official Facebook page.
Sultan Ibrahim said likewise, followers of other religions should also show respect towards Islam.
His Majesty said mutual respect is essential to prevent misunderstandings, tension and provocation, and to strengthen unity in a multireligious and multicultural society.
The King said any disputes related to the construction of houses of worship should be resolved through legal channels to preserve harmony, tolerance and goodwill.
His Majesty said Malaysia was built on the foundations of harmony and mutual respect, and the country’s strength lies in tolerance and adherence to the rule of law.
Sultan Ibrahim also reminded all parties to avoid making statements or taking action that could cause misunderstanding, division or undermine peace and stability in the country.
Meanwhile, His Majesty attended the 271st Meeting of the Conference of Rulers at Istana Negara, presided by the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin.
