KUALA KANGSAR: Members of the Dewan Negara Negeri Perak (Council of State) and dignitaries of the Royal Court must avoid disputes, struggles for influence and the formation of factions, says Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
The Perak Ruler said the Royal Court must be a place that unites and not one where divisions are deepened.
"Where disagreements arise, they should be resolved through honest and courteous dialogue.
"Practise mutual consultation, listen to one another's views and place the interests of the State above personal interests," His Royal Highness said in his royal decree during the 175th Dewan Negara Negeri Perak meeting at Istana Iskandariah here on Thursday (Oct 29).
"Do not allow the desire to protect your own position to cause you to neglect the greater responsibilities entrusted to you," he added.
He also said that members of the Dewan Negara Negeri Perak and dignitaries of the Royal Court must understand the role of the monarchy within the framework of a constitutional monarchy.
"Respect the prescribed limits of authority and responsibility.
"Work professionally with the government and state institutions, without interfering in administrative affairs or using your position to advance partisan political interests.
"The Royal Court must continue to command respect as an institution that protects the people and watches over the entire state.
"Public confidence in the institution of the monarchy will be strengthened when the people see its dignitaries serving with integrity, acting fairly and exercising discretion in their speech," His Royal Highness added.
Sultan Nazrin also said that all members of the Dewan Negara Negeri Perak and dignitaries of the Royal Court must exercise care and discretion in both word and deed, and matters entrusted to them in confidence must be safeguarded.
"Information whose accuracy has yet to be established must not be circulated.
"Opinions should be expressed with due propriety, without giving rise to slander or discord.
"In today's world, a single remark or recording shared on social media can give rise to many different interpretations.
"Each of us must therefore remain vigilant and exercise sound judgment in our communications, particularly when using social media channels and platforms," His Royal Highness added.
He also called on members of the Dewan Negara Negeri Perak and dignitaries of the Royal Court to remain close to people from all walks of life.
"Understand their lives, listen to their concerns and treat them with compassion, courtesy and respect.
"The people should never feel intimidated or prevented from bringing forward matters that require attention," he said, adding that the unity of the multiracial society must also be strengthened.
"Pay particular attention to those in need, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, orphans, families facing financial hardship and those who are marginalised.
"Extend assistance with sincerity, without seeking praise or expecting anything in return," His Royal Highness added.
The Ruler also said that members of the Dewan Negara Negeri Perak and dignitaries of the Royal Court must have the courage to speak the truth, with courtesy and sincerity.
This, he said, was an expression of loyalty of the highest value.
"Loyalty to the Ruler demands sincerity of heart and the courage to speak the truth.
"We do not need people around us who simply agree with everything or tell us only what we wish to hear," he said.
"We need members of Dewan Negara Negeri Perak and dignitaries of the Royal Court who have the courage to offer wise counsel, raise concerns with courtesy and respect, and express views grounded in knowledge and fact.
"If something is good, acknowledge its merits. If weaknesses or risks exist, explain them honestly and responsibly," he added.
Sultan Nazrin said that it is through true loyalty that the Ruler can make decisions that are fair, sound and wise.
"Reflect and take heed that each of us will be held accountable for the responsibilities entrusted to us.
"The responsibilities attached to any position conferred must be discharged with the utmost integrity," His Royal Highness added.
