KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong symbolises the sovereignty of the nation and is a guardian who protects the citizens. He also safeguards the religion and is the mainstay of the nation's stability.
The Friday sermon on May 29 reminded all Muslims to uphold proper conduct towards His Majesty and national leaders, in conjunction with the official birthday celebration of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on June 1.
The sermon also warned against abusing freedom of speech on social media for negative purposes.
"Indeed, religious and royal institutions form the key foundations that preserve the nation's sovereignty," the sermon stated.
It added that these institutions preserve the people's unity and the sanctity of Islam.
The Rulers are not mere symbols of government, but they protect the religion, peace and harmony of society.
"Therefore, preserve decency and respect for the Rulers, leaders and the nation's institutions with ethical words and moral actions," it said.
The sermon was titled "Dirgahayu Tuanku: Amanah Raja, Tanggungjawab Rakyat".
The sermon was prepared by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) and read out by Imam II Hassan Alfadhli Abdul Rahman, broadcast live from Masjid Negara.
The sermon also reminded Muslims that the well-being of a nation cannot be achieved through the strength of leadership alone. It requires the efforts of its citizens.
It arises when trustworthy leadership and responsible citizens walk together and complement one another.
Muslims were reminded that the destruction of a nation does not only result from external threats. It usually starts when there is an internal fracture and disrespect of the nation's identity.
"When trust is disregarded, when morals are discarded, when fractures are ignored, those are the signals of the beginning of a nation's destruction," the sermon read.
It also reminded Muslims to never abuse the freedom of expression on social media by spreading abusive words and falsehoods. Such actions would eventually destroy unity.
Instead, they should protect the values of civility and courteousness as a strong shield that preserves the sanctity of the religion, race and nation.
"Today, let us manifest our love and allegiance by proclaiming 'Dirgahayu Tuanku'," the sermon read. It noted that the responsibility should be shouldered by every citizen.
"If Rulers shield the nation with justice, then the citizens must surely prosper it with allegiance," it added. - Bernama
