KUALA LUMPUR: The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has expressed disappointment over the mismanagement of Tabung Haji, stressing that funds entrusted for religious purposes must be managed with accountability and responsibility.
His Royal Highness said Tabung Haji was established to help Muslims save money for their pilgrimage to Mecca, and that the mismanagement and reported abuses should not have occurred.
“Likewise, there must be accountability and responsibility in managing funds meant for religious purposes,” Tuanku said, adding that the same principles apply to places of worship of all faiths as well as orphanages.
Sultan Sharafuddin also urged politicians in Selangor to focus on serving the people, promoting economic growth and preserving unity to maintain the state’s leading position in the country.
The Ruler said he was fed up with excessive and unproductive politicking.
“Like the rakyat, I am also fed up,” said His Royal Highness.
Tuanku said there is no place for politics that exploit race and religion or drag the royalty into political disputes.
“Selangor’s strength has always been its people.
“We are blessed with a society made up of different races, religions and cultures that have lived, worked and prospered together for generations.”
Sultan Sharafuddin acknowledged that politicians have every right to debate policies, offer different ideas and compete for public support.
“However, politics should never come at the expense of racial harmony or religious understanding,” the Ruler said in a special interview marking his 25 years on the Selangor throne, Bernama reported.
His Royal Highness also reminded politicians to avoid sensitive remarks that could hurt the feelings of others.
“Don’t be a hero or a stirrer. Think before you speak and always be mindful,” said Tuanku.
His Royal Highness said Selangor, like Malaysia, has been built on compromise, mutual respect and a willingness to appreciate differences while pursuing common goals.
With social media enabling messages to reach millions within minutes, Sultan Sharafuddin warned that irresponsible statements could have serious consequences.
“A single irresponsible statement can easily inflame emotions, deepen mistrust and create unnecessary tension among communities.
“This is why public figures must exercise wisdom, restraint and a deep sense of responsibility.
“Leadership is measured not only by what one says, but also by the consequences those words have on society.” the Selangor Ruler said.
Sultan Sharafuddin said everyone stands to lose when race and religion are repeatedly used to divide communities or create fear and suspicion.
The Ruler also attributed Selangor’s success to its diversity, stability and inclusiveness.
“Investors come here because they see a state that is peaceful and forward-looking. Our young people want opportunities, quality education, good jobs, affordable housing and a better future.”
Selangor’s diversity, Tuanku said, should be regarded as one of its greatest competitive advantages rather than a source of division.
“My advice to all political leaders, regardless of party, is simple; place the interests of the people above political interests.
“Uphold the Federal Constitution, respect the position of Islam as the Religion of the Federation while safeguarding the rights of other religions to be practised in peace and harmony, and preserve the spirit of moderation that has long been the foundation of Selangor,” Sultan Sharafuddin said.
