SHAH ALAM, May 21 — The public is urged to embrace the Rukun Negara and the Federal Constitution in full to strengthen national unity and prevent the distortion of Malaysia’s founding ideals for political gain.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the public should heed the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj’s call to fully read and understand the background and preamble of the Rukun Negara.
This is particularly important, as the document reflects the aspirations of the nation’s founders to build a united, democratic, just, and progressive society.
"The Rukun Negara is not merely a pledge recited at official ceremonies, but a national philosophy that must be embraced in the life of the nation,” he said in a statement.
On Tuesday (May 19), His Royal Highness said the Rukun Negara displayed on a newly built monument plaque at Dataran Selangor was meant to remind Malaysians, especially the younger generation, of the history behind the document.
The Ruler also called on all Selangor state assemblymen to visit the square twice a month to understand and appreciate the meaning of the Rukun Negara displayed.
The declaration of national philosophy was introduced after the May 13, 1969, racial riots and the declaration of a state of emergency.
In addition to the Rukun Negara, Amirudin said all parties should also examine the Federal Constitution honestly and responsibly, and read the Proclamation of Independence by the nation’s first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman, to ensure that Malaysia’s history is not distorted to serve narrow political interests.
"Malaysia is a nation founded upon the rule of law. The country has clear laws and a clear constitution. Article 4 of the Federal Constitution explicitly provides that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land.
"Malaysia was also clearly established as a parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.
"Therefore, any attempt to distort the nation’s history, sow hatred among races, or question the constitutional framework for political gain is irresponsible and dangerous to the country’s future,” he said.
Amirudin added that the state government will continue to uphold the spirit of unity, moderation and respect for the institution of constitutional monarchy, and the sovereignty of the rule of law, as outlined by the nation’s founders and reaffirmed through the Sultan’s address and counsel.
"The unity of the people is not something that can be taken for granted, but must be upheld and defended by every citizen for a shared future,” he said.
