KUALA LUMPUR: Boosting racial unity certainly has to be one of the priorities of the new government – some damage control in this area is inevitable in the wake of the racially inflammatory messages and videos that have been circulating on social media following the announcement of the 15th general election (GE15) results.

The matter even gained the attention of the Malay rulers. The Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir said on Wednesday that political leaders should refrain from using racial or religious issues to incite Malaysians against one another.

Tuanku Muhriz, who chaired the 260th meeting of the Conference of Rulers at Istana Negara on Tuesday and Wednesday, also called on the unity government helmed by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to foster the spirit of togetherness among Malaysians, regardless of race or religion.

The ruler also proposed that the Rukun Negara be declared at suitable functions, adding that this will prove that the government is serious about making the Rukun Negara the basis and guide for all Malaysians.

Commenting on this, Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Teo Kok Seong said it is a clear message to the new prime minister that he must take the necessary steps to strengthen national unity.

He said racial unity is critical to creating a stable nation which, in turn, will have a positive impact on the economy and the well-being of the people.

“The call by the Conference of Rulers and the proposal by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah to form a unity government show that the palace wants all racial conflicts to end,” Teo, who is a fellow of the National Council of Professors, told Bernama.

Credit: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2022/12/856865/new-govt-must-heed-royal-call-take-steps-boost-unity