KUALA LUMPUR – Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim has again advised all parties to focus on bringing people together, instead of sowing division, as it is his wish for Malaysians to be united.
“I hope that political leaders are not extreme in giving their views on religious and racial issues. (This is) not only (about) Umno and DAP, but also for all parties (as) leaders must be the bridge between our plural society and examples of mature behaviour,” His Majesty decreed.
This comes after Sultan Ibrahim held an audience with DAP and Umno representatives today to discuss current issues related to religious and racial tensions.
Those involved in the audience today were Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Melaka Umno chief Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh and DAP deputy secretary-general Liew Chin Tong.
Sultan Ibrahim also said recent events should open the eyes of all parties regarding the collective responsibility to safeguard the unity of the nation.
“Cohesive unity among the people will be the catalyst for Malaysia’s wellbeing,” the Agong added, urging all quarters to forgive each other and start a new chapter ahead of the upcoming Raya celebrations.
Last week, the Agong held an audience with KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd founder Datuk Seri Chai Kee Kan, who apologised for his company’s cale of socks bearing the word “Allah”.
In response to the apology, the Agong said all quarters must be more responsible, adding: “I hope this is the last time I have to stress this.”
“Once again, I warn quarters against taking advantage of this matter, especially (by) inciting the people. I do not want this matter to drag on.”
KK Mart and its manufacturer, Xin Jian Chang Sdn Bhd, landed in hot water after being caught selling several “Allah”-printed socks at some of its outlets. This resulted in outrage in the Muslim community and boycott calls from certain quarters.
Recently, local fashion company Vern’s incited ire among the Muslim community after a graphic on the soles of its shoes was accused of resembling the word “Allah” in Arabic.
Vern’s Holding Sdn Bhd founder Datuk Seri Ng Chuan Hoo has since apologised for the design and vowed to not make similar mistakes in the future. – April 9, 2024