Help the rakyat, says Sultan

SHAH ALAM: Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has expressed dismay over the relentless politicking in the face of multiple crises currently plaguing the country.

The Sultan of Selangor admonished politicians who were still “going at each other” instead of addressing challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, which has affected the people’s health, triggered an economic slowdown and political instability – a triple whammy for Malaysia.

“They are too busy fighting one another and have neglected efforts to overcome the problems caused by the pandemic.

“This is what’s happening,” the Ruler said in an exclusive interview with The Star in conjunction with his 76th birthday.

His Royal Highness revealed that ordinary citizens suffering from hardships were now turning to him for help as they felt politicians were “not around to help them”.

“Maybe I am wrong, I hope, but I think the rakyat cannot get in touch with the wakil rakyat (elected rep) from their areas.

“Previously, letters to me were written anonymously, we used to call them surat layang. Now, they put their name, MyKad number, address and even their mobile number.

“This can only mean they are desperate,” he said.

Sultan Sharafuddin chided elected representatives who were not around to carry out their duties for the very people who voted them into office.

“About a few months back, an area in Selangor was hit by a heavy flash flood.

“So I asked, ‘Where is the wakil rakyat? Where is the adun, where is the MP?’ The MP talks a lot on social media and in Parliament but in reality, there’s nothing done,” he said, without mincing his words.

“Only the non-governmental organisations are doing work on the ground,” the Ruler added.

Asked what issues were presented to him by the people, Sultan Sharafuddin said the rakyat pleaded for financial assistance and even highlighted local issues which should have been directed to their representatives.

His Royal Highness also expressed concern with the rise in the number of urban poor, noting that much more should be done to help those affected by the pandemic.

Asked about the Selangor government’s performance in managing the pandemic, he said: “It could be better. Politicians should focus on data and science.”

“In Selangor, there may be many hospitals, but most are private and expensive. And (here), we have the urban poor.” - Star