YANG di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar today advised political leaders not to be extreme in their views on matters relating to race and religion.

He said leaders must set an example by showing maturity in their actions, as this will unite Malaysia’s multicultural society.

Earlier today, the king granted an audience to Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan, Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, Malacca Umno chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh and DAP deputy secretary-general Liew Chin Tong.

“The audience with His Majesty focuses on the latest developments on sensitive issues pertaining to race and religion,” said the ruler’s Facebook post today.

“I want to advise all quarters to focus on uniting the people, instead of dividing them. I want to see the people unite in harmony.

“I also hope that political leaders are not extreme in their views pertaining to racial and religious issues. Not just DAP and Umno, but all parties.

“Leaders must be a bridge or link between Malaysians with examples of mature behaviour,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

The king also said recent events have served as a lesson that all segments of society have a responsibility in preserving national unity.

“Genuine unity among the people will be the catalyst for Malaysia’s well-being. Ahead of this Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, let’s forgive one another and open up a new chapter,” he added.

Akmal has been in the news in recent weeks for his strong calls for a boycott against KK Mart Sdn Bhd after socks with “Allah” prints were found in some outlets.

KK Mart and its founders have apologised over the issue and have faced charges, while Akmal is being investigated by police under the Sedition Act and the Communications and Multimedia Act for his continuing attacks against the supermarket.

Last week, Agong had issued a final warning for all quarters to refrain from playing up the socks issue.

However, Akmal had been reported as saying that he would continue to call for a boycott against KK Mart.

“Did the king ask to stop the boycott?” he was reported as saying in Malaysiakini.

He also asked which part of his campaign was considered “fanning the flame”.

Akmal also took to Facebook to say that there was “nothing to be afraid of” as he was merely voicing out the people’s concerns.

His actions had come under criticism from several quarters, including from his own party Umno and parties in Pakatan Harapan. – April 9, 2024.