THE Sultan of Selangor has called for greater unity among the people and urged politicians to refrain from using race and religious issues to stir up emotions, saying there are more urgent issues to attend to.
Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah said that as a result of Covid-19, all races had been affected, citing instances of business closures, loss of jobs and reduction of wages.
“The number of middle-class folk has slid regardless of race. We are in the same boat. Economy and Covid-19 are our concerns.
“Please do not bring up unnecessary issues which can cause racial issues,” he said.
The Ruler also urged the media, in particular, not to provide coverage to those pitting one side against another.
“Be mindful of what you share on social media. Don’t amplify isolated cases. Most Malaysians are good people and rational,” he added.
His Royal Highness was asked about non-Muslims having to turn to royal institutions for intervention when they felt marginalised.
Sultan Sharafuddin said he had been speaking about the need for unity since 2005.
“The ordinary people (the public) are okay, the hantu (devils) are the ones on top. The hantu provoke racial extremism and that is where the problem lies,’’ said Sultan Sharafuddin.
On the infrastructure in Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin said delays by certain sectors were the main reasons projects were lagging.
“The bureaucrats are slow, the JKR (Public Works Department) is slow… everything is slow. The Budget has been approved but we are too slow in utilising the money,” said Sultan Sharafuddin, adding that the state had lost several opportunities due to delays.
On the plight of the Shah Alam Stadium, which has fallen into decay, Sultan Sharafuddin said its construction must be in tandem with the planned LRT station nearby.
He added that the Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah had asked if the stadium could be demolished and rebuilt exclusively as a football stadium.
“I have no objections to the stadium being demolished to be better but the name must be maintained.
“To conclude, it is my wish that we live harmoniously, full of tolerance and kindness regardless of race or beliefs. I wholeheartedly believe that unity shall bring prosperity and success to our country. That will surely be beneficial to the rakyat,” the Sultan said.