KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah called on all Malaysians, regardless of race and religion, to unite to develop the nation.
In His Majesty's speech at the national Maal Hijrah 2023/1445 celebration at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur today, he said the unification of the Muhajirin and Ansar people 1,400 years ago is the spirit of hijrah that should be the main guideline for managing the diversity in the country.
"Therefore, it is very fitting for us to appreciate the theme of this year's Maal Hijrah celebration, 'Perpaduan Teras Malaysia Madani'.
"I appreciate the government's efforts in driving the Malaysia Madani agenda to build a society that values courtesy, upholds the principles of justice, and practices tolerance."
The King also said he appreciated the implementation of the Religious Affairs Transformation Plan Towards Malaysia Madani 2023-2027 as a proactive step towards the development of the ummah.
Meanwhile, Al-Sultan Abdullah said the spirit of Hijrah in nurturing trust and integrity must always be a part of every Malaysian.
"In conjunction with the new Hijrah year, let us all be grateful for the peace and prosperity that we have achieved.
"Develop a sense of love to our nation, as how the Prophet did to his.
"I invite all Malaysians to be one in forming a society that is gentle in speaking, subtle in advising, harmonious in brotherhood, honest in working, trustworthy in carrying out duties, and powerful in creating success.
"Avoid from jealousy, slander, judgmental and negative thoughts that bring no benefit to the country and the nation," he added.
Also present at the celebration were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail; Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof; and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar.