KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 1 — The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim, today said that any individual who does not want to follow the principles of the Rukun Negara is not worthy of being called a Malaysian citizen.
His Majesty said, the Rukun Negara, which was introduced on 31 August 1970, is a commitment and pledge of every Malaysian to rebuild racial unity and ensure social harmony.
“Therefore, I call on all parties to live up to every principle of the Rukun Negara and make it a practice and guideline for life as Malaysians.”
“Therefore, if there is any Malaysian who does not want to follow the principles of the Rukun Negara, I advise that he is not eligible to be called a Malaysian citizen,” said Sultan Ibrahim.
His Majesty spoke at the Presentation and Conferment Ceremony of the 2026 Federal Orders, Stars and Medals in conjunction with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s Official Birthday at Istana Negara today.
Also departing was the Queen Mother, Raja Zarith Sofiah.
Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail; Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and members of the Cabinet including Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil as well as foreign delegates.
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong said that every citizen must be united, tolerant and respectful of each other, and firmly adhere to the principles of the Rukun Negara.
His Majesty said that unity is the foundation of the country’s strength which guarantees economic progress, racial harmony and national stability.
In this regard, Sultan Ibrahim said all parties need to learn from the country’s black history, the May 13, 1969 racial riots which erupted when some parties acted excessively, insulted others, and lost respect for the nation and the sovereignty of this country.
“This event (May 13) has destroyed the unity of the people and destroyed the stability of the country. Don’t let the banana bear fruit twice,” said Sultan Ibrahim.
The conferment ceremony is the third time Sultan Ibrahim has officiated since His Majesty was installed as Yang di-Pertuan Agong on July 20, 2024.
In total, 161 individuals received Federal Orders, Stars and Medals in conjunction with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s Official Birthday this year.
— BERNAMA