Selangor sultan ticks off 'popular' politicians who go overboard

 

Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah criticised politicians who used abusive and rude words during political campaigning.

This happened when political figures dragged the royal institution into their speeches, he said.

“Their rude attitude has gone beyond the boundaries and personal values of Muslims and Malays that are always preserved.

“Remember, it should not be because we assume we are popular enough among the rakyat that we can belittle anyone who does not agree with our political views.

“And they are willing to even come to Selangor and hurl insults that are above the limit. Where did common courtesy go? It is not our culture, especially the Malays, to insult anyone, let alone in public.

“One should maintain one’s manners, especially when standing in one’s state or home,” he said during a speech after swearing in 10 state executive council members at Istana Alam Shah, Klang.

The ruler did not mention any names during his speech.

Kedah Menteri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor

However, prior to the campaign period for the state elections, Kedah Menteri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor allegedly insulted Sultan Sharafuddin over the ruler’s choice of a menteri besar.

In a viral video of Sanusi speaking at a ceramah in Selangor, he was seen comparing the Kedah and Selangor sultans, alleging the latter chose a “lousy” menteri besar.

As a result, he was arrested and slapped with two charges of sedition at the Selayang Sessions Court on July 18.

Both charges accused him of uttering words that had a tendency to incite disloyalty against a ruler.

Sanusi claimed trial to both charges, which are set for pre-trial proceedings on Oct 4.

If found guilty, he could be jailed for up to three years, fined up to RM5,000, or both for each offence.

Avoid conflicts

Meanwhile, Sultan Sharafuddin today called on all parties to stop acts that may threaten harmony in society, and instead focus on improving the lives of the people and prospering the country.

He also called on Muslims and Malays in Selangor to avoid conflicts and contention among each other which could potentially further divide the community.

“I have noticed that politics has greatly divided the unity among Muslims with a limited political understanding.

“Enough of what has happened, we must move forward and bring change to our politicking and thinking,” he said.- Mkini