KUALA LUMPUR – Former Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz has called for Sultan Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah’s recent royal address to be understood within the true framework of Malaysia’s Constitutional Monarchy system, stressing that it should not be misconstrued as political intervention.
Following an audience with the Sultan yesterday, Zafrul expressed gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirmed his loyalty as a Selangor citizen, while voicing appreciation for the ruler’s message on the importance of preserving unity for the sake of stability, harmony and the future of both the state and country.
“His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor’s royal address must be understood within the true framework of the Constitutional Monarchy system, which has long been the cornerstone of this nation’s stability,” he said.
Zafrul said the Sultan’s views should be understood as advice, guidance and reflections stemming from the responsibilities of the royal institution in safeguarding state stability, social harmony and the welfare of the people.
He pointed to prior clarification by the Selangor Royal Council that the ruler’s remarks did not amount to political interference, but instead reflected the role of a constitutional monarch in preserving public interest.
“In our Constitutional Monarchy tradition, titah is a reminder born from the wisdom of the royal institution and expressed for the good of the state and its people. It is not a ‘decree’ or order as misunderstood by certain political leaders,” he said.
Zafrul said the Sultan’s message should be viewed through a broader lens as an appeal to strengthen unity and bring together Malaysia’s multiracial society at a time of increasing global uncertainty.
He said the ruler’s remarks were not solely about Malay unity, but also about ensuring that the strength of Malays and Islam continued to serve as a pillar of national stability while protecting the interests of all communities and faiths.
Drawing from Islamic history, Zafrul said the greatness of a civilisation was never built on division or hatred, but on knowledge, justice, stability and an ability to embrace diversity.
He also stressed that in a plural society such as Malaysia, championing the interests of one community should never come at the expense of another.
“The true strength of a nation lies not in who speaks the loudest, but in the ability of its people to live together in mutual respect and trust,” he said.
Referring to the Sultan’s mention of the Ottoman Islamic civilisation, Zafrul said its success stemmed from its ability to build an inclusive and stable society that allowed people from diverse backgrounds to contribute toward collective prosperity.
He warned against attempts by any quarters to politicise the issue in ways that could strain ties among leaders and undermine social harmony in Selangor.
With global energy and supply challenges continuing to create uncertainty, Zafrul said Malaysia required mature politics capable of strengthening public confidence and ensuring long-term stability.
He urged continued focus on strengthening institutions, reinforcing unity and building greater understanding among communities rather than fuelling divisions that could threaten national cohesion.
Zafrul also called on Malaysians to remain guided by the five principles of the Rukun Negara in preserving a peaceful, harmonious and successful society. – May 21, 2026