Enough of politicking
The King to Dewan Rakyat members – do not let the country go through political turbulence again. Instead of hostility and slander, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah says differences in opinions should become the platform for promoting new ideas and to unite Malaysians.
PETALING JAYA: The men and women fighting on the front lines of the battle against Covid-19 received a rare standing ovation in Dewan Rakyat led by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
Early in his Royal Address, the King asked lawmakers to rise to their feet and join him in giving a round of applause to show appreciation for the frontliners.
The King said the country had been facing the Covid-19 pandemic since February and all Malaysians have come together in facing the challenges that rose from it.
“The frontliners, especially those in the healthcare services, the armed forces, police, fire and rescue department, immigration, the National Disaster Management Agency and others involved, have shown great dedication in facing this outbreak.
“They have made inexhaustible sacrifices despite the concern that their own lives and personal safety would be at stake in protecting the well-being and interests of the people.
“So, to show our appreciation, let us please stand up and give a round of applause to our frontline heroes and heroines,” said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
The King said the country had already been facing many challenges, such as the uncertainties in the global economy, a trade war between China and the United States and the drop in oil prices.
The latest challenge presents itself in the form of a pandemic that has further affected Malaysia’s open economy.
“The country has never faced an outbreak this serious,” he said.
The King however said he was confident that the government has provided safety and security to the rakyat through various measures, such as implementing the movement control order and bringing back Malaysians stranded overseas.
He added that many businesses and industries have been affected by the outbreak.
“I would like to urge employers not to retrench their workers indiscriminately.
“All parties must do their part and sacrifice to save the nation’s economy.
“The government should look for approaches to help companies and businesses that are badly affected by the outbreak,” he said.
The King also hoped that the impact of the government’s RM260bil stimulus package would be felt immediately.
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong added that all Malaysians can overcome these challenges together.