KUALA LUMPUR – The Sultan of Pahang has strongly criticised those who exploit issues related to the monarchy, religion, and race (3R) for political gain, calling such behaviour “clownish” and divisive.
Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah warned that these actions only create unnecessary tension and urged all parties to engage in discourse with wisdom and restraint.
“Stop being a ‘clown’ who politicises the issue of the monarchy, religion, and race, causing disputes within society.
“Let this ‘stage’ remain calm, without painful ‘dramas.’
“Let us ‘dialogue’ using wisdom and heart, not ‘monologue’ filled with insults and hatred,” he said during a visit to Kg Durian Hijau, where he officiated the naming of Masjid Abdulrrahman Ibn Auf last night, according to a post on the Pahang Sultanate’s Facebook page.
His royal highness condemned those who turn serious matters into a spectacle, stressing that politics should not be used to incite hostility but should serve as a platform for meaningful and respectful dialogue. He urged Malaysians to foster understanding rather than engage in speeches filled with hatred and insults.
Accompanying him at the ceremony were Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, the Crown Prince of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, and Tengku Ahmad Ismail Mu’adzam Shah.
The sultan also called on political leaders to act as unifying figures rather than instigators of division. Expressing support for Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail’s recent statement, he warned that history has shown how racial and religious conflicts if mismanaged, can negatively impact all.
“History has proven that racial and religious conflicts, if not handled wisely, can lead to catastrophe. We do not want that dark history to repeat simply because of our negligence in managing these sensitive issues with wisdom and prudence,” he cautioned.
Beyond the political sphere, Al-Sultan Abdullah urged all Malaysians, regardless of faith, to uphold harmony and not be easily provoked. He emphasised mutual respect and tolerance in preserving peace, warning that ignorance and arrogance could undermine the unity built over generations.
“Respect each other, safeguard the sensitivities between religions and beliefs. Let us not allow ignorance and arrogance to destroy what we have long built together,” he urged.
Reaffirming Pahang’s commitment to upholding its sovereignty, he said that Islam would continue to guide its people while ensuring that every individual, regardless of background, has a rightful place in society and deserves to live in peace and prosperity.
“Indeed, in upholding the dignity of this holy religion, we are responsible for ensuring that every soul living on this blessed land receives their rightful due so that this land continues to thrive in prosperity, breathe in peace, and stand tall in harmony.
“Let us together be the fortress of peace, raise the banner of unity, and uphold the teachings of Islam filled with wisdom as our guide,” he declared. – March 12, 2025