KUALA LUMPUR — Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has warned against politicising religion, warning it could undermine harmony and unity in Malaysia’s multi-ethnic society.
“Malaysia is built on harmony, and the strength of the nation lies in mutual respect, tolerance and adherence to the law. Every citizen has a responsibility to uphold these values for the common good,” the King said on Facebook today after meeting Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang at Istana Negara.
The Ruler urged all parties to follow the law, including in matters of land use and the construction of places of worship. “The issue of building temples must be handled according to the same legal procedures as the construction of mosques, churches and other religious sites,” he said.
Recalling his role in resolving a temple demolition dispute in Johor in January 2018, Sultan Ibrahim said he acted as a mediator to settle the issue “in a proper, measured and lawful manner.”
“I personally resolved the issue amicably and advised all parties involved to comply with the law to avoid unwanted incidents and maintain public order,” he added.
The King emphasised mutual respect between religions, noting that Islam teaches respect for all and does not prevent followers of other faiths from practising their beliefs.
“Other religious communities should also respect Islam. Mutual respect helps prevent misunderstandings and tensions while strengthening unity among Malaysia’s diverse communities,” he said.
“Therefore, whenever issues arise regarding the construction of temples or other places of worship, all parties must understand and respect the country’s laws, and resolve differences through legal channels to maintain harmony, tolerance and goodwill,” Sultan Ibrahim added.
He concluded by urging all parties to avoid actions or statements that could cause division or threaten national peace.— February 11, 2026