DAULAT TUANKU
Reign begins: Sultan Muhammad V kissing the Federal Keris as a symbol of accepting power during his installation as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara.
KUALA LUMPUR: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V has called on the rakyat to continue to preserve Malaysia’s communal diversity, calling it the source of the country’s strength.
The King said it was proven that Malaysians of diverse races, religions, cultures and ways of life were able to live together in peace, harmony and mutual respect.
“I hope Malaysians will continue to be united, tolerant, bearing the responsibility of a sovereign state, because these are our unique features which have been our source of strength,” he said in his Royal Address at his installation ceremony as Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the Balairong Seri Istana Negara yesterday.
He reminded the nation’s younger generation that they were the future leaders and should equip themselves with knowledge and skills.
“There is no full stop in seeking knowledge and skills.
“I call on all Malaysians, particularly the young, to continue to seek in-depth knowledge and skills needed by the nation,” he said.
He advised the young to be respect- ful and continue to support the efforts put in by the Government.
“The opportunities provided by the Government should be seized for the betterment of the country,” he added.
The King also said that human capital development was the key to the nation’s future success as it would result in improved productivity and competitiveness.
He said all Malaysians must have high morals and be aware of their responsibilities to the country.
On the economy, Sultan Muhammad V said the Government had succeeded in weathering external pressure and depreciation of the ringgit.
He called on the rakyat to support the Government’s strategies to revive the economy and it was important for them to continue to do so to further improve the situation.
Sultan Muhammad V noted that his installation as King also marked a special occasion for the nation, which was celebrating 60 years of independence.
He said the national day celebration should be a joyful and harmonious occasion, especially since it would be close to Hari Raya Aidiladha.