KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, has decreed that all political leaders uphold proper conduct and decorum, and exercise caution when making public statements.
The sovereign said that politicians should refrain from provoking sensitive issues, especially ahead of election periods, which often serve as platforms for individuals to seek prominence and win public support.
“Avoid provocation and disputes over sensitive issues relating to the royalty, race, and religion, as they can arouse public anger.
“‘Jangan kerana nila setitik, rosak susu sebelanga’ (do not let one bad deed spoil the whole endeavour),” said the King in his royal address during the investiture ceremony for Federal Awards, Honours, and Medals in conjunction with His Majesty's official birthday celebration at the Istana Negara today.
Also in attendance was Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, the Queen of Malaysia.
Among those present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Cabinet ministers, including Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and members of the foreign diplomatic corps.
Sultan Ibrahim added that freedom of speech on social media should not be used as a platform to spread slander and hatred among the people.
The situation has become more complicated with the misuse of artificial intelligence to generate fake news through fabricated voices and images in deepfake videos on social media.
The King also expressed disappointment that his images had been used in fake videos and content to mislead the public.
As such, His Majesty ordered the relevant authorities to continue strengthening monitoring efforts and take appropriate action to curb such activities.
Meanwhile, Sultan Ibrahim also extended his congratulations to all recipients of this year's federal awards, honours and medals.
His Majesty reminded the recipients that the awards were not meant for self-glorification but should instead serve as encouragement to continue serving religion, race, and the country with sincerity.
“I would also like to express my deepest appreciation to all parties involved in organising today's celebration.
“The Queen and I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the messages of goodwill and prayers from the people, which have accompanied me every step of the way in carrying out my duties and responsibilities as Head of State.
“Let us pray that our beloved nation, Malaysia, will continue to be blessed with peace, prosperity and divine grace, and that its people will continue to live in harmony and unity,” said the King.
The investiture ceremony marked the third occasion on which Sultan Ibrahim conferred Federal Awards, Honours, and Medals since His Majesty's installation as the King of Malaysia on July 20, 2024.
A total of 161 individuals received Federal awards, honours and medals in conjunction with this year's official birthday celebration of the King.
