KUALA LUMPUR: More than five decades after its introduction as the foundation of national unity, the Rukun Negara is still not being fully embraced, as issues involving race, religion and national institutions continue to generate debate in the public sphere.
In this context, the call by His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, on the importance of adhering to the principles of the Rukun Negara has been described by experts as a timely reminder for Malaysians to return to the nation-building values that underpin harmony, stability and national unity.
Legal and constitutional expert Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Shamrahayu Abdul Aziz said the King's decree is in line with the status of the Rukun Negara as the nation's philosophy, outlining national aspirations and the principles that every Malaysian should uphold.
"Therefore, adhering to the Rukun Negara also means upholding the Monarchy, which is one of the pillars of the country's system of governance.
"The King's call is in line with the nation's aspirations because the Rukun Negara serves as an important foundation for fostering unity, strengthening democratic practices and guiding citizens in appreciating its five principles," she told Bernama.
Shamrahayu, who is also an International Islamic University Malaysia lecturer, said every citizen has a responsibility to know, understand and internalise the essence of the Rukun Negara in order to realise the aspiration of building a united nation.
She said appreciation of the principles has become increasingly important as society faces various challenges, including the spread of sentiments that could undermine interracial relations and national harmony.
Earlier, Sultan Ibrahim said the Rukun Negara, introduced on Aug 31, 1970, represents the pledge and commitment of every Malaysian to rebuild racial unity and ensure social harmony.
The King also reminded Malaysians to take lessons from the May 13, 1969 racial riots, which erupted due to the actions of a small group of individuals who went to extremes, insulted others and lost respect for fellow citizens and the country's sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said the Rukun Negara is not merely a declaration recited at assemblies or official events, but a social contract and moral compass that guides Malaysians in living harmoniously within a diverse society.
The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Centre for Policy Research and International Studies senior lecturer said the Rukun Negara's five principles educate citizens to respect religion, remain loyal to the nation, uphold the Constitution, obey the law, and practise courtesy and morality.
"If truly embraced, it becomes a shield against division, radicalism and politics of hatred. Unity does not exist because we are the same, but because we hold on to the same principles. That is the true strength of the Rukun Negara.
"If the Constitution is the pillar of the nation, then the Rukun Negara is the soul that gives it life. Malaysia does not lack diversity, but at times it lacks appreciation of these values," he said.
He added that the Rukun Negara reminds Malaysians that being a citizen is not merely about sharing the same homeland, but also about sharing common values, responsibilities and a commitment to preserving national harmony. - Bernama
