KUALA LUMPUR: The institution of constitutional monarchy in Malaysia must be maintained and further enhanced for the sake of the nation, says Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
The outgoing Yang di-Pertuan Agong (YDPA) said he was glad to have played a role in showcasing the functions of the YDPA within the constitutional framework, adding that the institution was crucial for the country’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious fabric.“We have to maintain this institution, and at the same time, it must be enhanced for the sake of the nation and the benefit of future generations.
“If it can be further strengthened not by giving more powers to the Agong, but by identifying certain areas that can be further improved and we should do so,” said Al-Sultan Abdullah in an interview in conjunction with the conclusion of his reign as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today.
Tuanku said the improvements of the YDPA institution were not aimed at benefitting any specific Ruler, but the institution as a whole.
“We, as the Malay Rulers, come and go. The Agong serves for five years, and then the respective Malay Ruler returns to their home state.
“The institution needs to be further strengthened, not idolised, but fortified so that it continues to protect the people and the nation, providing effective governance,” added Tuanku.
Citing Article 40 (1) of the Constitution, Sultan Abdullah said the King shall be entitled, at his request, to any information concerning the government that is available to the Cabinet.
“This demonstrates that the power of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is significant; despite the need to get the advice of the Prime Minister, the King can also obtain information and subsequently discuss it with the Prime Minister.
“Even though there is no executive power, it is sufficient to settle and manage state affairs within the constitutional context, as provided under its framework,” added Sultan Abdullah.
In addition to that, the role of Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces can also be improved, added Tuanku.
“Similarly, the police force recently proposed to appoint Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the Honorary Commissioner of the Police (Pesuruhjaya Kehormat Polis Diraja Malaysia), which is expected to be discussed in Parliament in the near future.
“This is just a formality so that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong can wear the Malaysian royal police uniform.
“It is appropriate for the King to wear the police uniform because our police force is known as the Royal Malaysian Police Force. At the moment, it is not allowed,” explained Sultan Abdullah.
On the international arena, His Majesty believes that the role of the YDPA can also help boost the country’s global presence.
“I want to share my personal opinion; sometimes, I think during the meetings of Heads of State, such as Asean or Apec, or other international events, the government should also consider allowing the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to represent the country at the international level.
“I say this because it can be beneficial to elevate the stature of the Agong at the international level to gain more respect. This suggestion is open for debate,” added Tuanku.
“Sometimes, on certain issues concerning climate change or humanitarian issues, perhaps the Yang di-Pertuan Agong might also be able to represent the country.
“But not necessarily on all platforms. Matters involving administration, finances or security should be represented by the Prime Minister or a minister. This is just my own view.
“I cannot spell out the details, but it is something to be considered. I think, in the long term, it will portray a good image for the nation.
“I think the group of Malay Rulers we now have today is very educated,” explained His Majesty.
According to Istana Negara, Sultan Abdullah made 24 diplomatic visits abroad during the five years he held the country’s highest office, including to Saudi Arabia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Jordan, Monaco, Qatar, Singapore and the United Kingdom.
On matters related to Islam, Tuanku said such aspects can also be improved.
“We have seen a slight change in the structure of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI), where a Sultan appointed by the Conference of Rulers has been appointed as the chairman for a period of two years.
“Previously, the Prime Minister held this role, but now it is a Sultan.
“At the moment, the Sultan of Selangor is holding the position. This is in line with the responsibilities of a Sultan to manage the religious affairs of each state,” added His Majesty.
Tuanku also urged that more awareness and education on the role of the YDPA should be raised, especially in the education system.
“Teach the history of the royal institution and encourage discussions about strengthening the royal institution, but this does not mean to criticise. We all act within the constitutional framework,” added Al-Sultan Abdullah.
To those who keep stirring up sentiments with issues pertaining to royalty, religion and race (3R), Tuanku warned that there should be self-restraint.
“I think let us not go overboard; let there be some limits. I understand that sometimes there are some uneasy feelings, but they must be handled appropriately.
“Don’t spread slander, don’t use harsh words, or use something that is not pleasing in the eyes of the public.
“There must be some decorum, as stated in the Rukun Negara. We need to follow what our ancestors taught us previously,” said His Majesty.
