Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has urged the people to uphold harmony and unity by steering clear of sensitive issues related to the 3Rs (race, religion, and royalty).

He said that in upholding the constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy, it is crucial to prevent the public from being influenced by negative elements, especially issues concerning the 3Rs.

His Royal Highness said that the royal institution should not be dragged into allegations and slander related to political issues that could incite hatred among the people.

“The royal institution is above politics; therefore, any reprimand or criticism against the government and the royal institution should be voiced through the proper channels and handled with prudence,” said the sultan in a special message in conjunction with the 67th National Day tomorrow.

The ruler said that the negative culture is still practised by some leaders and politicians, even though he frequently advised them to avoid inciting the politics of hate.

Nevertheless, Sultan Sharafuddin said that he will persist in advising the people to always foster a strong spirit of unity within the country’s diverse society.

He also expressed hope that differences in race, religion, and political views should not hinder Malaysians from remaining loyal to the nation.

His Royal Highness said that these differences should be embraced as a means to create a pluralistic society that is united and respects each other.

Sultan Sharafuddin also reminded the younger generation about the threat posed by a new form of colonialism that influences thoughts and culture, evolving alongside the fast pace of information technology, especially social media.

In this regard, he emphasised the need for the younger generation to be smarter in tackling and resolving the problems and challenges that lie ahead.

“The spirit of patriotism, tolerance, and mutual respect must continue to be instilled in the younger generation and demonstrated through strong unity and harmony, free from negative elements.

“I’m confident that appreciating the true meaning of independence will rekindle the spirit of love for the country and help build a developed and progressive nation,” said His Royal Highness.

In marking National Day tomorrow, Sultan Sharafuddin expressed hope that all levels of society would understand and appreciate the true purpose of the celebration, highlighting that independence is more than freedom from colonialism and the “Merdeka” chant.

He said that independence requires sacrifices of both soul and mind, nurtured through the shaping of identity through four essential aspects, namely religion, morals and ethics, education, and language.

“Let us unite to make our country a competitive, developed and prosperous independent nation.

“Avoid the culture of envy, slander, and incitement that can undermine national unity,” said Sultan Sharafuddin.

- Bernama