Royal institution still relevant in M’sia — Regent of Pahang

KUANTAN: The royal institution, as a symbol of unity and catalyst of nationalism, is still relevant in this country which has a variety of political affiliations and socioeconomic background.

The Regent of Pahang, Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah said the royal institution was even more needed when the country faced various globalisation threats through the spread of the modernisation theory and the western template of democracy which had resulted in a clash of national identity.

“The constitutional monarchy acts as a unifying mechanism to a landscape of diverse cultures and religions, protecting the prosperity and security of the country.

“The unique condition of our country is such that it also requires a neutral supreme institution that can reprimand, advise and share their viewpoint. If such an institution is absent, unity, patriotism and loyalty to the country will also erode,” he said during the dialogue session entitled, ‘Royal Discourse: Rulers, Constitution and Patriotism’ at the Grand Darul Makmur Hotel here yesterday.

Also present were Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob and Council of Former Elected Representatives (Mubarak) president Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Abdul Rahman.

Tengku Abdullah stressed that when the harmony, unity and well-being of the people were under threat, rulers used their sovereign power to find solutions.