KUALA PILAH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hit out at those who had used an edited version of a speech by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, for political advantage.
He said he would not be sympathetic to any party who disrespected the royal institution.
"We have a Constitution and we must abide by it, don't look for trouble. I will not sympathise with those who disobey the authority of the rulers," he said.
Anwar said those who were not satisfied with anything could criticise him all they wanted, but they should not touch on the Malay Rulers.
"You can insult the prime minister every day, to your heart's content... that is your right. I will not take action (if you do this) unless you seriously defame me.
"However, as soon as you touch the rulers, you are just asking for trouble," he said at the "Ceramah Jelajah Perpaduan" here last night.
It was reported yesterday that the Sultan of Perak's Office had lodged a police report over the video, which has gone viral, as it was seen as linking and dragging his position for partisan political purposes.
Orang Kaya Bendahara Seri Maharaja General (Rtd) Tan Sri Dr Mohd Zahidi Zainuddin had said the office had lodged the report on Saturday to protect the good name of Sultan Nazrin from being tarnished by any party for political gain.
The video was said to be that of only small part of a speech in 2013 regarding Pas, before Sultan Nazrin became the ruler of Perak.
He is seen as "expressing positive words" towards Pas, but Zahidi had pointed out that he had also talked positively about Umno.
"His Majesty gave a balanced review between the two Malay political parties and also issued a warning to both parties that the passion for political support and power should not divide the nation and destroy the country," he said.
At least 20 police reports have been lodged by various quarters in Perak over the issue.
However, the case is being handled by federal police in Bukit Aman.