The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has urged leaders, particularly political figures, to act as bridges in uniting the people, rather than fueling division that threatens the long-standing peaceful coexistence of society.
His Highness emphasized the need for leaders to stop playing the role of ‘clowns’ by stirring up polemics surrounding the 3R issues—religion, race, and royalty—that could incite community conflict.
“Let us keep this moment peaceful, free from unnecessary drama. Leaders should engage in dialogue with reason and sincerity, rather than resorting to monologues full of insults and hatred,” His Highness said.
“I also commend the recent statement made by Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, who rightly pointed out that it is the duty of leaders to be peacemakers, not instigators of conflict,” he added during the opening of the new Rahman Ibn Auf Mosque in Kampung Durian Hijau, Jerantut, yesterday. The Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, and the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, were also present.
Al-Sultan Abdullah noted that history has shown the destructive consequences of mishandling racial and religious tensions.
“We must not allow the darkest chapters of history to repeat themselves because we fail to handle these sensitive issues with wisdom and care. We must respect one another and be mindful of religious sensitivities,” he said.
“Let us not let ignorance and arrogance destroy what we have long worked to protect,” His Highness added.
The Sultan expressed his sorrow that certain individuals continue to challenge the sanctity of Islam, crossing the boundaries of respectful speech and conduct.
In this context, His Highness called on Muslims in the state to stand united in defending and protecting the sanctity of Islam, ensuring that it is not disrespected by irresponsible parties.
“Is this what we call independence? Or is our independence merely a matter of numbers, not the mindset of our people? As Muslims, we are taught that the more abundant the harvest, the more the rice stalks bow — a reminder to stay humble in knowledge, respectful in speech, and wise in action,” His Highness said.
“However, let our gentleness and politeness not embolden others to insult our religion freely. Islam does not teach us to tolerate humiliation or oppression,” he continued.
His Highness stressed that in a fair and wise government, people of all faiths should be free to practice their religions peacefully, as long as it does not threaten public order or disrupt national harmony.
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