Mufti of Perak Harussani Zakaria could not hold back tears while recalling his memories with former Sultan of Perak, the late Sultan Azlan Shah, with participants at the Muzakarah Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, in Ipoh today.

In his welcoming speech as the organising committee chairman for the muzakarah (dialogue), Harussani was seen unable to control his sadness nor to hold back tears when he spoke about Sultan Azlan Shah's visit to various districts in the state in a bid to bring the royal family closer to the people.

"Unfortunately, there was an incident where we received a letter advising the Sultan not to go to a certain mosque because there were threats, from traitors," he said in a sad, croaky voice.

Harussani said he was also ready to be the shield to protect the Sultan then, come what may.

Right now, the mufti said it worries him as there seemed to exist a situation where the monarchy institution was increasingly forgotten.

"Of late, the monarchy institution is kept away from the people, schools no longer teach their students about Malay rulers. So, I suggest that the history of the monarchy institution to be taught again in schools," he added.

The three-day dialogue, which began today, was graced by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah.

- Bernama