KUALA LUMPUR: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah called on all Malaysians, especially the leaders, to appreciate and emulate the exemplary leadership and statesmanship of the late Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman in nation-building.
Comptroller of the Royal Household of Istana Negara Major General Datuk Zahari Mohd Ariffin said His Majesty also regarded Dr Ismail as an irreplaceable statesman.
In fact, he said Sultan Abdullah also described the late statesman as one of the main figures in promoting national unity and playing a crucial role in strengthening harmony among the people of diverse races and religions, especially after the racial riots of 1969.
"His Majesty acknowledges that throughout Dr Ismail’s tenure as the deputy prime minister and a member of the Cabinet, he had displayed outstanding qualities of humility, integrity, and a willingness to contribute to the country.
"Therefore, His Majesty expresses the hope that the deeds and sacrifices of the late Dr Ismail will not only serve as an inspiration and example for all Malaysians but also be emulated by the community and political leaders for the prosperity and well-being of our beloved nation,” Zahari said in a statement on Wednesday (Aug 2).
Zahari said the King also expressed delight and welcomed the government's initiative, particularly the Communications and Digital Ministry's programme today, to commemorate the deeds and contributions of Dr Ismail in conjunction with this year's National Month celebration.
"His Majesty says that besides commemorating and honouring Dr Ismail’s contributions, the programme can also help instil and enhance patriotic spirit among the people, especially the younger generation so that they do not forget or take for granted the sacrifices made by the country’s statesmen like Dr Ismail.
"His Majesty also prays for Allah’s mercy upon the late Dr Ismail and that his soul be placed among the pious and the righteous,” he said.
In conjunction with the National Month celebration, Zahari said the King also invites the entire nation to join in praying for Malaysia’s continued prosperity, well-being, lasting unity and protection from any form of calamity and disaster.
The Commemoration of Statesman Tun Dr Ismail Al-Haj - The Pillar of National Unity, is organised to educate the younger generation about the contribution of the statesman in nation-building.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to launch the event at Dataran Merdeka, this afternoon. - Bernama
