MARAN: The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has expressed profound sorrow and regret over recent incidents seen as deliberate attempts to undermine national and state harmony.
His Royal Highness said this includes the latest issue involving a student from a public university in Pahang who allegedly desecrated the Quran.
"Such an act is not only extremely insolent but also insults Muslims and challenges the foundations of societal harmony built on the principle of mutual respect.
"Remaining silent is not an option as such circumstances reflects a weakness of spirit and a fading sense of responsibility toward dignity," His Royal Highness decreed.
The Sultan delivered these remarks during the inauguration of the new Felda Jengka 19 Mosque, which he officially named the Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah Mosque in Felda Jengka 19 on Tuesday (March 3).
Furthermore, Al-Sultan Abdullah decreed that while Islam demands firmness within the boundaries of justice, Muslims must not allow insults to occur, nor should they retaliate with actions that destroy peace.
In his address, he reminded Muslims to defend their religion firmly while simultaneously respecting the rights of followers of other faiths to practice their beliefs in peace.
"As the Head and Protector of the Islamic Religion in the State of Pahang, I emphasise that any insult against Islam must be handled strictly and without compromise according to the rule of law. Freedom of speech is not an excuse to insult religion," he decreed.
The Sultan of Pahang also called upon all Muslim citizens in the state to return to the Al-Quran by reading it, understanding its meaning, and practicing its teachings in daily life.
The inauguration ceremony was also attended by the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah; the Crown Prince of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah; and the Sultan's other children.
Also at the event Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Felda chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad and members of the Pahang state executive council. – Bernama
