Never take Unity and Peace for granted

Letter to Editor

The Special Statement issued by the Conference of Rulers, prior to its meeting last Thursday, is of great significance considering the many controversies emanating from certain politicians which have given rise to serious concerns about the rights and safeguards for all Malaysians irrespective of race and religion.

The Statement which touched on the Social Contract, the need to respect the Federal Constitution, the rights of all communities, the position of the Rulers, status of Islam and Bahasa Malaysia etc, is indeed a timely reminder to everyone about his or her responsibility to ensure unity, peace and harmony which are essential for the success and prosperity of our multi-racial, multi-religious and multi-cultural nation.

To me it is a categorical statement to reaffirm the sacrosanctity of the Federal Constitution and a reminder of the constitutional guarantees accorded to all Malaysians.

Coming from the Rulers themselves who are the esteemed guardians of the Nation, the Statement should serve as a caution to those who are constantly engaged in sabre-ratting over race and religions issues which may be detrimental to peace and harmony in our multi racial nation.

The essence of the Statement is a much needed message of unity, peace and harmony which must never be taken for granted despite 51 years of independence and nationhood.

Let us not jeopardize what we have achieved so far through the spirit of understanding and accommodation. Let us not allow extremism and violence in whatever form divide the nation which we all love and care for as this is our birthplace, our home, our workplace and eventually our final rest destination.

Allow me to stress once again the very fundamentals that have brought us together which are the very principles contained in the Rukunegara.

The Rukunegara was formulated in 1970 and sets out to achieve a form of minimum consensus with regard to national aspirations among the various communities in Malaysia regardless of their geographical location or ethnic character.

Apart from achieving greater unity among the people; maintaining a democratic way of life; creation of a just society; a liberal approach to cultural traditions; as well as building a progressive society oriented to modern science and technology; the Rukunegara also sets out a social guide in the form of the following principles;

i. Belief in God
ii. Loyalty to the King and Country
iii. Upholding the Constitution
iv. Rule of Law, and
v. Good Social Behaviour and Morality

These principles, which have enabled Malaysia to unite her multi-racial and multi-religious people and form the principles of our nationhood should be embedded in our younger generation who are the future leaders of this country.

The Federal Constitution and Rukunegara are our guide for nation-building and should be respected by all. It is a shared vision for national unity.

In the days ahead the creation and sustenance of national unity must be given the highest priority for unity is vital to ensure the continued growth of Malaysia as a secure, peaceful, progressive and united nation.

Unity is a priceless gift and a symbol of our humanity. It is the foundation upon which we build relationships, families, communities and a nation. It is the bond that seals our nationhood.

Let us include every Malaysian in the building of unity. We must start speaking with one voice, one that is inclusive of Malaysians of every ethnic background. We all contribute to the stability and economic prosperity of the country. Let us all be committed to promote a culture of peace, harmony and unity.

Unity can be a fragile thread that breaks easily. Or it can be a powerful anchor that holds steady the nation. The choice is ours to make.