King's role crucial for unity and justice, says PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is a pillar of strength for the country and its diverse population, ensuring equality and justice for all Malaysians in line with the principles of constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said the King’s role as the head of Islam, the federal religion, strengthens the position of the Malay language and defends the rights and privileges of the Malays and the Bumiputra community.

“Your Majesty, the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is the nation’s crown and the people, capable of binding the spirit of unity and honoured as a symbol of virtue.

“Therefore, on behalf of the government and all citizens, I pledge unwavering loyalty to Your Majesty and pray that Allah Almighty bestows His Majesty and the royal family with His grace and mercy,” he said while congratulating and pledging loyalty to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim on his installation as the 17th King of Malaysia at Istana Negara on Saturday (July 20).

“Indeed, the installation of His Majesty today marks a historical event that, God willing, will be able to raise the dignity of the country.

“The government and people pray to Allah SWT that Their Majesties and family will always be blessed by His grace and guidance, remain steadfast on the throne, and always be in good health,” added Anwar.

The Prime Minister also noted that the King plays a role in ensuring strong ties between Malaysia and Asean, other Islamic nations, and at the international level.

“Your Majesty, under your leadership, the government and the people will navigate the challenges of the global economy through new sustainable initiatives to ensure the welfare of the people.

“Firm measures outlined in the Madani Economic framework have generated an impressive growth rate of 5.8% for the second quarter of this year.

“This fresh momentum is further strengthened by trade values amounting to RM1.396tril, while new investment approvals total RM83.7bil for the first quarter of this year, which is 13% higher than RM74.1bil last year,” highlighted Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister.

The government, Anwar said, will continue its efforts and approaches emphasizing educational and health reforms by improving infrastructure quality, English language proficiency, and exploring new fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and energy transition.

“Additionally, through the cooperation of all government agencies and departments, we are grateful that the effort to eradicate extreme poverty will materialise by the end of this month, while the government will continue to focus on housing issues and cost of living challenges,” he said.

In the pursuit of current reforms and transformations, Anwar added that the government will consistently emphasise noble values, strengthening morals and national identity, aside from focusing on increasing respect and loyalty to the constitution and the Rukun Negara.