RARE VOICE OF REASON: Malaysian Muslims must respect those who practise other faiths - Negri Ruler (Yam Tuan)

KUALA PILAH - Respect each individual's religion to avoid disharmony, Yang di-Pertuan Besar Negri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir today urged Malaysian Muslims during his investiture ceremony in conjunction with his 66th birthday.

In a packed Istana Besar Seri Menanti, here, Tuanku Muhriz said Islam as a religion teaches men to do good to each other regardless of their background and race.

"In a Malaysian context, the Constitution has set Islam as the official religion of the country without hindering others to practice their own religions,"

"With that, I urge Malaysian Muslims to continue living in harmony with each other and ensuring respect is given to others who practice different religions."

Tuanku Muhriz called on leaders of every community to cast aside sentiments which can destroy the harmony the country is thriving in.

"It is the responsibility of elected leaders at all levels to develop programmes and activities which can lead people to appreciate and defend the country's peace,"

Some 173 became the first batch of 769 recipients who were bestowed with awards and titles including Tuanku Muhriz's eldest son, Tunku Ali Redhauddin Tuanku Muhriz, who was conferred the Darjah Seri Setia Tuanku Muhriz Yang Amat Terbilang (SSTM) which carries the title Datuk Seri. - NST