Implement ‘Wills of Malay Rulers’ fully, govt urged

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is called upon to fully implement the provisions in the ‘Wills of the Malay Rulers’ invoked by the royal rulers on Aug 5, 1957 when signing the agreement forming the Federation of Malaya, for the well-being of all communities in the country.

Malay Consultative Council (MPM) economic bureau chairman, Hasan Hamzah said the wills were not aimed at protecting the interests of the Bumiputeras only, but all races and groups in this country.

“These wills cover all aspects or parameters for wellbeing, including in education, economy, religion and security.

“Hence, the implementation of these wills will create a more conducive and prosperous coexistence in a plural society,” he said in a statement, yesterday.

In this regard, Hasan said the government and the palace department of the respective states should brief the ruling government and opposition leaders on the wills for better understanding and appreciation of the content.

“Regardless of their belief or political ideology, all have the responsibility of implementing or ensuring full implementation of the rulers’ wills,” he said.

The seven wills touch on, among others, the sovereignty of the Malay rulers, Malay as the national language, Islam as the official religion of the federation, and protecting the special position of the Malays and legitimate interests of the other communities.

According to Hasan, MPM would organise an information campaign so that all levels of society would know, appreciate and uphold the wills.

He said the people should be on the same page on this matter, and reject any attempt to exploit the current political situation to serve their vested interest.

“We all love peace. All parties should not try to make demands, especially unreasonable demands, which could threaten the peace and harmony in the country,” he added. - Bernama