‘PRACTISE FREEDOM OF SPEECH RESPONSIBLY’
Take action against elements that can affect national unity, says king
THE Yang di-Pertuan Agong yesterday reminded Malaysians that while the country upholds freedom of speech, it should be practised responsibly.
Speaking on the importance of maintaining unity in Malaysia’s diverse population, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah said action should be taken against activities and elements that could affect unity and harmony.
Enforcement bodies, he said, should take firm action against any dissemshould ination of unlawful social media content.
“Media influence, especially irresponsible use of social media, may threaten noble values that are based on religion, as well as the moral principles of society.
“The government embraces openness and freedom of speech but these rights must be exercised within the legal framework and accepted societal norms.”
Sultan Abdullah said this at the opening of the first meeting of the second session of the 14th Parliament sitting at the Dewan Rakyat here yesterday.
Present was Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.
In his address, the king said while efforts had been made to strengthen unity in the multiracial population, these efforts should not remain slogans.
“Calls for unity must not remain mere slogans but have to be followed through with action.
“All parties must uphold the supremacy of the constitutional monarchy, the position of Islam as the religion of the federation, but other religions can be practised in peace and harmony with Bahasa Malaysia as the national language.
“We strongly support the government’s efforts in promoting the principles of
‘alamin (mercy to the universe) and Maqasid Syariah based on true Islamic teachings.”
The king added that Islam be understood by each citizen regardless of race and religion as it was not an exclusive religion for a particular group but a universal way of life.
Sultan Abdullah called on the people to be realistic in placing their hopes on the government.
“They (the people) must have confidence in the measures taken by the government even though the impact may not be felt immediately.
“The government understands that the rising cost of living is one of the challenges in improving the wellbeing of the people.”
He said efforts would be made to improve the wellbeing of the rural population, the indigenous people of Sabah and Sarawak, and the Orang Asli community, covering economic, human capital and infrastructure development.
Sultan Abdullah urged the people to fight against corruption and uphold integrity.
“The fight against corruption must continue as it burdens the people and destroys the foundations of a country.
“We express our appreciation for the efforts of the government in introducing the National AntiCorruption Plan and laws to strengthen governance, which will contribute to improve the country’s ranking in the Corruption Perception Index.”
Sultan Abdullah urged parties to uphold the principles of parliamentary democracy for the people.
“We urge honourable members to continue to preserve, protect and defend the supremacy of the Federal Constitution.
“Always place the people’s interests at heart and conduct debates in the August House in an orderly and respectful manner.
“The people want the government to listen to their views and aspirations, as it is essential for leaders to consider their demands when formulating policies and programmes.”
The second session of the 14th Parliament sitting will see discussions on major issues, including the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the government’s move to amend Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution to return the original rights of Sabah and Sarawak.
The Parliament session will run until April 11.