Duli-Duli Yang Maha Mulia,

I write as your loyal subject to express my concern, as well as that of thousands of others, about a rapidly developing situation that is beginning to tarnish the good name, honour and dignity of your Highnesses whom we love and respect.

I am referring to state honours that you shower each year on all and sundry on the occasion of your Royal Highnesses' birthdays.

I am well aware that because of the behaviour of a small number within your exalted ranks, you have all been tarred with the same brush, all most unfortunate because the bestowal of awards has become a growing cash-rich industry.

It is the sort of business that we can do without in a country already blighted and perceived negatively by the international community.

I am also naturally conscious of the fact that not all 'awards for cash' transactions are within your control as many are conducted by politicians. I may be a million miles away from the throne, but I feel a deep sense of sorrow and shame because I know many of you are blameless.

These titles, once greatly honoured, were given rarely and selectively, and only to those occupying and performing duties of the state. Today, we must be forgiven for thinking that with so many Datuks being let loose on an unsuspecting public, on each Sultan's birthday, Malaysians are running the risk of being the most ennobled people, per capita, on this planet. Do titles need to be so debased?

Even in this day and age, the notion that has regulated royal behaviour for hundreds of years, 'noblesse oblige', continues to be relevant. Only your Highnesses have the power to stop the degradation of your honour and standing and regain the love and affection of your people by recalling all titles ever awarded, except to servants of the state, whose contribution to the public good is without question.

Future awards should be in the form of 'service of state medals' that carry no title whatsoever.

Daulat Tuanku.