Twentytwo13

Stop playing politics, Malaysia’s King tells MPs

Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim, says that Members of Parliament should be the fortresses of national unity, not agents of division among the people, and should stop playing politics with every issue.

Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim, addressed the First Meeting of the Fourth Session of the 15th Parliament today with a powerful message, telling politicians to stop politicising every issue.

“Parliament is the most important assembly in our country’s system. It is the arena for the voice of the people to be heard, where laws are made, and the platform for checks and balances on the administration of the nation,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

“Parliament is not a place for heated arguments, insults, or spreading falsehoods. It is a noble hall for discussing the agenda that serves the interests of the people and the prosperity of the country,” he added.

He emphasised that MPs should be the last bastion of national unity, not agents of division among the people. “Therefore, stop playing politics with every issue, and do not only prioritise your party or group.”

A year ago, Sultan Ibrahim told MPs that he expected the 222 elected representatives to behave in a manner befitting their position. He also stressed that they should be good role models.

Today, he acknowledged that many members have changed and demonstrated a more positive attitude. However, he noted that there were still some members who find it difficult to shed old habits.

“I don’t need to list these bad behaviours, as I believe every member is aware and knows how to conduct themselves,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

“I appreciate the role that all leaders have played in maintaining political stability, as this has contributed to the country’s prosperity and economic growth.”

While acknowledging the country’s economic progress, which saw Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product grow by 5.9 per cent across various sectors and the national trade volume exceed RM2 trillion in the first nine months, Sultan Ibrahim said the government must ensure that this good performance brings prosperity to all the people, and not just certain groups.

He also welcomed the targeted subsidy approach.

“These targeted subsidies should be distributed efficiently and effectively to the groups that truly deserve them,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

Sultan Ibrahim also welcomed the government’s efforts to increase foreign investment in high-tech and digital sectors, stating that strengthening digital infrastructure and the economy, enhancing cybersecurity, and the use of the latest technologies must be implemented immediately.

“The government service delivery system must also be upgraded to use more efficient and transparent digital technology. This is to combat corruption, abuse of power, and the ‘red tape’ culture that burdens the people,” he said.

“However, I would like to remind the public to be cautious so as not to become victims of cybercrimes, such as online financial scams or identity theft.

“I am also concerned about the culture of slander and incitement online and on social media, which causes confusion, hostility, and division among the people.”

Sultan Ibrahim said the government must take a firm stance in combating this culture and be proactive in providing accurate and trusted information.

His Majesty also touched on several other issues, including:

• Urging all quarters to ensure the success of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 by ensuring the country is safe and clean.

•* Encouraging continued support for smallholders, farmers, ranchers, and fishermen, and taking proactive steps to empower the agriculture sector, commodities, and the food supply chain.

• Strengthening the Bumiputera economy through cooperation and support from government companies, which must continue to be implemented.

• Ensuring the government remains committed to providing opportunities for every citizen to own affordable housing. The provision of basic infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and education must continue to be improved.

• Supporting the government’s implementation of the education reform agenda, technical and vocational training, and youth development to produce a more quality future generation.

• As Asean chair this year, Malaysia must demonstrate its ability to lead and set the direction for Asean.

• Maintaining Malaysia’s firm stance in upholding the principles of security and opposing violence and oppression. The war in Gaza must be immediately stopped, and justice under the law must be enforced.

• Advising the government to be wise in maintaining diplomatic relations with all parties and to enhance strategic cooperation in addressing regional issues and national borders.

• Taking decisive action through diplomatic channels, legal means, and even exercising the military option to ensure the sovereignty and interests of the country remain secure, even if it is just a small reef in the middle of the sea.

• Sultan Ibrahim also expressed his gratitude for the loyalty shown to him and the country by all members of the civil service, the Malaysian Armed Forces, the Royal Malaysia Police, and all government agencies.

“Let us all pray that Malaysia continues to progress and prosper, and that all its citizens enjoy a fulfilling, peaceful, happy, and prosperous life,” he said.