HIS Royal Highness Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, has called for Malaysians to defend unity as the cornerstone of national harmony, prosperity and independence, warning that any act threatening cohesion must be firmly opposed.
Delivering his Royal Address at the Pledge of Loyalty and Investiture Ceremony in conjunction with his 69th birthday at Istana Iskandariah, the ruler cautioned that efforts to foster unity are being undermined by those who sensationalise issues of ethnicity, religion, and regional identity at a time when solidarity is most needed.
“Malaysia, born of the Federation of Malaya, is constitutionally defined as a nation of many ethnicities, faiths and traditions, each inheriting a vibrant mosaic of languages and heritage. Our differences in ethnicity, religion, culture and language are blessings that enrich this earth,” New Straits Times reported him saying.
“Through the wisdom of past leaders, these diverse elements were united and bound together to form Malaysia – independent and sovereign, peaceful and calm, tranquil and prosperous.
The spirit of consensus and unity forged by those leaders at the nation’s founding must continue to be respected. Any voice, demand, or action contrary to this spirit must be firmly opposed to preserve the sovereignty, peace, harmony and prosperity of our independent nation.”
Sultan Nazrin warned that the meaning of independence would be hollowed if national discourse became poisoned by hostility. “This country must never become a house of discord, a stage for the intoxicated pursuit of power. The meaning of independence will crumble when the tongues of some citizens become more poisonous than arrows, spreading venom to corrupt minds,” he said.
The ruler emphasised that independence is not simply marked by patriotic songs or flag-raising, but by a nation’s ability to stand with dignity and maturity.
“True independence is not only freedom from colonial rule, but the liberation of thought, the deepening of political maturity, the pursuit of economic progress, and the unfolding of national development. Most importantly, it is sustained by citizens who embody the spirit of one people, one nation,” he said.
He lamented that diversity is sometimes viewed through prejudice and suspicion, describing it as “a misfortune for any civilisation, and a loss to humanity.”
Such negativity, he said, “corrodes the harmony among people and undermines the delicate balance that sustains interethnic and inter-religious relations.”
Sultan Nazrin also urged political restraint, warning that actions driven by emotion could harm the nation’s development.
“Much remains to be done to uplift the lives of those living in poverty. The people must never be made victims of endless political strife when the nation needs its energy and resources channelled towards more productive endeavours,” he said.
Paying tribute to Malaysia’s founding father, Tunku Abdul Rahman, the Sultan lauded his diplomatic skill and inclusive vision.
“History bears witness that our nation’s independence was secured through diplomatic acumen, keen insight into colonial concerns and the steadfast unity of our diverse peoples,” he said.
“The charm and wit, coupled with diplomatic acumen and pragmatism of the late Tunku Abdul Rahman, reflected his hallmark of a true statesman.
“His mastery of negotiation secured independence while preserving the sovereignty of the Malay Rulers and safeguarding the special position of the Malays, balanced with the legitimate interests of other communities – all enshrined within the Merdeka Constitution.”
Sultan Nazrin said Tunku’s wisdom, sincerity and unwavering spirit of nationhood earned him the trust of Malaysians across ethnic, religious and regional lines.
“The peoples of the 11 states were united, not only through political coalitions but also as one broader community,” he said. - November 9, 2025
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