HIS Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today set out clear priorities for the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), urging the government to centre its development agenda on the wellbeing of the people, particularly in education, housing, healthcare and public transport.
Delivering the royal address at the Opening of the First Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 15th Parliament at Parliament House, His Majesty stressed that education must remain the cornerstone of nation-building, identity and Malaysia’s future.
“If we want to create a new education system, it must be in line with the national education policy, and Bahasa Melayu must be the main language as it is the national language,” His Majesty said.
“Hence, any proposal to recognise any other education system must accept Bahasa Melayu and Malaysian history. If there are those who cannot accept Bahasa Melayu, it’s better you don’t stay in Malaysia,” the King added.
Sultan Ibrahim’s remarks came amid renewed debate over the possible recognition of alternative education pathways, a sensitive issue in Malaysia’s multi-ethnic society. His Majesty’s firm stance underscored the central role of the national language and shared historical narrative in preserving unity.
Parliament will sit for 20 days, with Members of Parliament scheduled to debate the motion of thanks for the royal address from tomorrow until 29 January, followed by ministerial responses beginning on 4 February.
In his address, the King also reminded lawmakers that Malaysia was formed through the Malaysia Agreement 1963, which united Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak as one nation, and that this constitutional foundation must continue to be respected.
His Majesty warned of modern threats to national stability, including digital security risks, information integrity and the misuse of deep-fake technology, which he said could open the door to fraud and social disruption. He added that serious crime, terrorism and actions touching on sensitive issues involving religion, race and the monarchy must be addressed firmly and effectively.
Sultan Ibrahim also voiced support for efforts to strengthen the legal and institutional framework governing elections, democratic institutions and political financing.
“This includes efforts to limit the Prime Minister’s term to two terms or 10 years, to separate the roles of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor, the introduction of a Freedom of Information Act, and the establishment of an ombudsman institution,” His Majesty said.
The King reminded all Members of Parliament that every debate, decision and vote carried out in the House would shape the nation’s future.
“Therefore, carry out this duty with trust, wisdom and responsibility in the interest of all the people,” he said.
In closing, Sultan Ibrahim called on all Malaysians to pray for continued progress and prosperity, and for the country to remain peaceful, harmonious and united.
“We should return to the original intention behind the formation of Malaysia, which is unity, mutual respect and close cooperation between the states and the Federal Government,” His Majesty said.
He also cautioned lawmakers against inflammatory rhetoric that could spark regional tensions, urging that differences of opinion be resolved maturely without hatred or suspicion.
“The rights of the states must always be respected, but the collective interests of Malaysia must take precedence,” Sultan Ibrahim said.
His Majesty added that the development of laws related to national security and external threats was necessary to safeguard harmony among all communities and to ensure that national sovereignty remains protected. - January 19, 2026
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