Interview session with Selangor Ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah at Concorde Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has issued a stern warning to preachers against belittling other religions.
His Royal Highness expressed concern over individuals who disparage other faiths, particularly on social media.
“On platforms such as Instagram, certain individuals may present themselves in a particular way, for instance, by having a beard. But when I observe their behaviour, it is clear that they should not belittle other religions,” Sultan Sharafuddin said in an exclusive interview with The Star.
“This is why I have consistently emphasised in Friday sermons (khutbah Jumaat) across Selangor that no religion should be belittled.
“However, it is acceptable to share with the public the differences between religions,” the Sultan said.
His Royal Highness underlined Malaysia’s multi-racial and multi-religious communities.
“I have consistently reminded the people of Selangor about the importance of unity and respect for one another’s faiths. Islam is the official religion in the Federal Constitution of Malaysia, but the rights of all races and religions to practise are enshrined in the Constitution,” the Sultan added.
Sultan Sharafuddin stressed that there is no place for extremism in Selangor.
“I will not tolerate those who exploit religion for their own agendas. I will personally keep an eye on such individuals,” said the Ruler.
His Royal Highness also expressed pride in Klang’s diverse heritage, which includes numerous temples, churches and mosques in close proximity.
“We have many religious sites in Klang. I want to ensure that the areas remain harmonious. There are mosques, Chinese and Hindu temples, Indian Muslim places of worship, and now even a Chinese Muslim mosque.
“There is harmony in these areas, which reflects our acceptance of different religions within the state,” said Sultan Sharafuddin.
His Royal Highness also stated that there is no issue with tourists visiting mosques as part of their exploration of Selangor.
Sultan Sharafuddin noted that even the late Queen Elizabeth II had requested to visit the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque in Shah Alam during her trip to Malaysia.
The Queen’s visit, in 1989, was part of the 11th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). As part of her itinerary in Kuala Lumpur, she visited the mosque and participated in various official events.
“She expressed interest in seeing the dome, which was designed by a British company,” said Sultan Sharafuddin.
