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STATE dignitaries and advisers must never conceal the people's grievances from the ruler or offer advice merely to please those in power, His Royal Highness Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah said.
He said those entrusted with positions close to the throne had a duty to uphold integrity, speak the truth regardless of how uncomfortable it might be and ensure the people's concerns reached the ruler.
"Those who stand close to the throne must uphold integrity, present truthful advice, however painful, and ensure that the voices and grievances of the people reach the knowledge of the ruler, so that the ruler is not lulled into a beautiful but false dream," he said.
His Royal Highness was speaking at the Royal Pledge of Allegiance and State Honours Investiture Ceremony held in conjunction with his 70th birthday celebrations at Istana Iskandariah in Kuala Kangsar today.
He said positions of authority demanded noble conduct, sincerity in service and the ability to put aside personal interests when discharging responsibilities to the state and its people.
Also present were Raja Permaisuri of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim, Raja Muda of Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa and Raja Di-Hilir of Perak Raja Iskandar Dzulkarnain Sultan Idris.
In his address, Sultan Nazrin also drew lessons from two royal heirlooms inherited by the Perak Sultanate from the Malacca Sultanate — Pedang Cura Si Manja Kini and Keris Taming Sari.
He said the regalia, brought to Kampar following the fall of Malacca in 1511, were later presented to Raja Muzaffar Shah, the first Sultan of Perak, who was enthroned in 1528.
He stressed that the two heirlooms represented more than ceremonial traditions, embodying the principles of sovereignty, courage, loyalty and responsibility in governance.
"What is the value of a sword held high if truth is allowed to fall? What is the value of a keris worn proudly if the trust placed in us is squandered?" he said.
Sultan Nazrin said the values symbolised by Pedang Cura Si Manja Kini included justice, wisdom, restraint in exercising power, respect for the Federal Constitution and adherence to the rule of law.
He said Keris Taming Sari, meanwhile, symbolised the courage to defend dignity, uphold justice, speak the truth, reject corruption and protect the oppressed.
"True courage also means being willing to accept criticism, acknowledge weaknesses and undertake reforms in the interests of the people," he said. - November 15, 2026
