The royal institution, as a symbol of unity and a catalyst for nationalism, is still relevant in this country which has a variety of political affiliations and socio-economic backgrounds.

The Regent of Pahang, Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah said the royal institution was even more needed when the country faced various globalisation threats through the spread of the modernisation theory and the western template of democracy which had resulted in a clash of national identity.

“The constitutional monarchy acts as a unifying mechanism in a landscape of diverse cultures and religions, protecting the prosperity and security of the country.

“The unique conditions of our country is such that it also requires a neutral supreme institution that can reprimand, advise and share their viewpoint.

“If such an institution is absent, unity, patriotism and loyalty to the country will also erode,” he said during the dialogue session entitled, 'Royal Discourse: Rulers, Constitution and Patriotism' in Kuantan today.

Also present were Pahang Menteri Besar Adnan Yaakob (above) and Council of Former Elected Representatives (Mubarak) president Abdul Aziz Abdul Rahman.

Tengku Abdullah stressed that when the harmony, unity and well-being of the people are under threat, rulers used their sovereign power to find solutions.

“As seen during the 2008 general election, the constitutional dispute over the appointment of menteri besar for Perlis, Perak, Selangor and Terengganu was resolved through the wisdom of their rulers,” he said.

Tengku Abdullah also urged the government to improve the country’s current parliamentary democracy system, making it in line with current trends. - Bernama