By Selangor Journal Team
SHAH ALAM, Dec 31 — Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj today called on all Malaysians to set aside their differences and focus their efforts on improving the nation’s economy as the country enters 2025.
In his New Year’s message, His Royal Highness emphasised the importance of unity and hard work, particularly among political leaders, business communities, and civil servants.
“I have observed that disputes often give rise to malicious slander, divisive incitement, and the spread of false information, particularly on social media,” he said in a statement posted on the Selangor Royal Office’s Facebook page today.
The state ruler highlighted the importance of mutual respect, positivity, and unity in ensuring the country’s continued progress.
He cautioned that continuous infighting could derail efforts to advance the nation, ultimately burdening the people.
“I am confident that if everyone works together, strengthens their resolve, and contributes to the country’s development, Malaysia will emerge as a more advanced and respected nation in 2025.”
[caption id="attachment_368856" align="aligncenter" width="1200"]
Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj delivers a speech at the launch of Moyang: Spirit of Carey Island, which details the crafts and culture of the indigenous Mah Meri tribe, at the Amverton Cove Golf and Island Resort, Pulau Carey, Kuala Langat, on August 19, 2024. — Picture by FIKRI YUSOF/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
Ushering in the new year, Sultan Sharafuddin also called for the eradication of corruption at all levels, urging Malaysians to prioritise integrity in their daily lives.
“A civilisation can collapse due to rampant, unchecked corruption,” he warned.
Meanwhile, His Royal Highness voiced particular concern over the rise of character assassination, which he said has spread beyond election periods to become a destructive tool aimed at undermining trust and reputations.
“Typically, character assassination occurs during election seasons, but now it seems to be used to destroy trust and subsequently bring down specific individuals.
“I urge the people to be wise and to thoroughly evaluate and investigate before forming prejudices and believing in slander resulting from these attempts at character assassination.
“If left unchecked, I fear such behaviour could lead to more undesirable societal habits and disrupt social harmony.”
The Sultan also advised Malaysians to verify information before forming judgments or believing in baseless allegations.
He encouraged those with grievances to channel their concerns constructively, benefiting all parties involved.
