Sultan of Selangor urges unity among Malaysians beyond ethnicity and religion
In his message for Hari Raya Aidiladha, the Festival of Sacrifice celebrated on 27 May, Sharafuddin Idris Shah issued an appeal against hatreds and divisions in response to tensions in his state, Malaysia's most populous territory. The sultan urges his compatriots to close ranks and avoid divisions that could weaken the community.
Kuala Lumpur (AsiaNews) – Sharafuddin Idris Shah, the Sultan of Selangor, Malaysia's most populous state, issued an appeal to his compatriots, particularly Muslims, urging them to unite and put aside feelings of hatred and hostility towards other ethnic and religious communities.
In his message, the sultan warned the population that political disputes and divisions could fuel social tensions with critical consequences in a densely populated part of the country home to different ethnic groups.
In his Hari Raya Aidiladha message, which is celebrated on 27 May, he urges Malays and Muslims — from political leaders to ordinary citizens — to close ranks and avoid internal divisions that could weaken the community. At the same time, he emphasised that unity among Malays and Muslims must not come at the expense of harmony with other ethnic and religious groups in the country.
The ruler voiced concern over the growing number of disputes and disagreements among politicians, warning that prolonged political conflict could create unease among the people, reminding leaders to prioritise stability, mutual respect, and the well-being of the rakyat (the people) over personal or political interests.
The sultan’s remarks carry particular significance in Selangor, Malaysia’s most populous and economically developed state, home to a highly diverse population. While Malays form the majority, Selangor also has large Chinese and Indian communities, alongside migrant populations and residents from across the country drawn by employment and urban growth.
The state includes major urban centres such as Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya, Klang, Subang Jaya, and Ampang, and has long been regarded as a microcosm of Malaysia’s multiracial and multireligious society.
Selangor has also frequently been at the centre of national debates involving race, religion, governance, and political power. As Malaysia’s economic powerhouse and a politically influential state, developments there often carry wider national implications.
Sultan Sharafuddin, who has occasionally spoken out on issues involving racial harmony, religious sensitivities, and political stability, has repeatedly urged moderation and respect among Malaysia’s different communities.
His latest message comes amid heightened political tensions and continuing public debates over identity, governance, and national unity.
Hari Raya Aidiladha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important celebrations in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide.
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