I doubt there is anyone who is not pleased with the maiden royal address of the new Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar in Parliament on Monday.
Two issues the king brought up really made my day. I’m not sure I’ve paid this much attention to a royal address in the past but Sultan Ibrahim’s address made me sit up to attention, even if it’s just watching him on TV.
In fact, I regretted that I did not make it to Parliament to hear His Majesty’s speech in person. I would have if not for an important prior appointment.
Firstly, His Majesty’s rebuke of wayward politicians telling them to behave themselves and act with decorum in Parliament was timely, overdue in fact.
We have heard, only too often, of MPs involved in shouting matches, hurling personal abuses at each other or making sexist remarks against female lawmakers.
Offhand, I can recall the “bocor” (leaking), “in the dark” (skin colour) and “unmarried” remarks directed at the women in Parliament over the years.
Some of those loud and abusive MPs are no longer in the house but some are still around. I hope they are aware that the king’s warning was directed at them.
Indeed, they should feel embarrassed, if not ashamed, of themselves that they have to be told by the ruler himself to behave themselves, like school kids in class.
To those who are so thick-skinned, thinking that because they wear the “Yang Behormat” tag, they could do what they like in Parliament, including disrespecting their opponents, please know just how wrong you are.
Even the king has to tell you to fly a kite now. If you do not understand what Sultan Ibrahim is trying to say, it is as simple as this -buck up and behave yourself in Parliament. Otherwise, ship out - we don’t want to see your face in Parliament for the next 14 days.
The same goes for members of the Senate. However, newly appointed Dewan Negara president Mutang Tagal could breathe easy. Senators are normally quite tame personalities. I have yet to hear of a “colourful” Malaysian senator. Is there one?
Then, there are also the new MPs who got so worked up whenever they came in for some criticism. They would shout at the top of their lungs, demanding that the words be “tarik balik”. Bad start for these newbie lawmakers, if you ask me.
Secondly, the king also wisely told the MPs, perhaps directing his message at the opposition MPs, not to attempt another coup against the unity government, saying that he would not entertain such a move.
Political stability
Sultan Ibrahim said everyone should respect the coalition government that has been formed and “should any of you want to play politics, then wait until the next election”.
Hear hear! We can now expect Anwar Ibrahim’s Madani government to go full term till the 16th general election due in 2027. I expect the king’s wish to be fulfilled.
To those in Perikatan Nasional, PAS and Bersatu in particular, let me send you this message: “Cukup lah” (Enough) of dreaming day and night, plotting and scheming how to overthrow Anwar as prime minister.
Those of you who are elected public officials, go down to the ground and do some honest work in your constituency for a change, instead of wasting precious time, plotting a coup that will not happen.
By now, there is a clear frustration with your (the opposition's) activities, which are perceived as undermining the government's authority and legitimacy. Sheraton Move, Dubai Move, what’s next? The citizenry is fed up.
While it's essential for the opposition parties to express dissent and advocate for change within a democratic system, there's a distinction between constructive criticism and actively plotting to overthrow the government through undemocratic means.
Take heed of Sultan Ibrahim’s advice. The opposition should work within the established political framework rather than seeking to overthrow it.
Ultimately, fostering dialogue, addressing grievances and promoting inclusivity can help mitigate tensions and promote political stability while upholding democratic principles.
Many are happy that Sultan Ibrahim has set the record straight of his expectations from political leaders in the country.
As evidenced by the royal address in Parliament, the new king has also struck the right chords with the people, effectively addressing their needs, concerns, and aspirations, and fostering a positive relationship between the leadership and populace.
When a ruler manages to strike the right chords with the rakyat, it often results in greater stability, unity and prosperity within the nation.
Indeed, Sultan Ibrahim has embarked on a great start in his reign as the new king and I’m sure all of Malaysia will readily join me in wishing him well and success in the next five years as our monarch.
“A king is not defined by the crown he wears but by the actions he takes.” - Unknown
Daulat Tuanku. - Mkini
FRANCIS PAUL SIAH is a veteran Sarawak editor and heads the Movement for Change, Sarawak (MoCS). He can be reached at sirsiah@gmail.com.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.
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