[UPDATED] Agong bids farewell to MPs, urges unity for nation

KUALA LUMPUR – The Yang di-Pertuan Agong has bid a poignant farewell to MPs while urging them to set aside political manoeuvring for the sake of the people’s welfare.

His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah also called on politicians to capitalise on Malaysia’s plural and diverse nature.

“As my final advice to MPs, do not act while waiting for praise. Instead, serve wholeheartedly as a representative of the people while prioritising citizens and the country’s future.

“Put aside narrow political agendas and stand together in the name of unity. The shaping of a new glorious Malaysian era should come from the bond of unity between MPs,” he said during his final speech to officiate the opening of the second session of the 15th Parliament today.

Breaking from convention, the ruler was accompanied by his wife Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, who sat by his side in the hall’s dais throughout his speech.

Al-Sultan Abdullah, who was sworn-in to the post on January 31, 2019 and will end his tenure as the nation’s 16th Agong on January 30 next year, also expressed his concern over the nation’s developments being sacrificed for the sake of political expediency.

“After 66 years of independence, we should be mature enough to make our unique differences as the main ingredient in the formation of a nation that has mutual respect, affection and tolerance for everyone.

“If diversity, pluralism and political upheavals continue to cause strife and division, I am worried that the desired atmosphere of peace and progress will forever elude us.”

Besides that, the king took the time to express his gratitude to civil service officers, the armed forces, the police, health services and other government agencies for their loyalty and professionalism.

He also thanked people who have strived to live harmoniously while persevering through challenges in the form of the Covid-19 pandemic, economic depression and political turmoil.

Earlier on, the king had decreed for all quarters to respect the results of the 15th general election, which saw the formation of a government led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. – The Vibes, February 13, 2023