KUALA LUMPUR: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah has urged the government to continue its excellence in administering the Federal Territories for the prosperity and peace of its people.
His Majesty said this was important because the global economy this year might be very challenging in view of the sharp drop in world oil prices, which would have a direct impact on Malaysia’s economy.
“I hope this excellent administration will ensure the progress, prosperity and happiness in the long term for my beloved subjects in the Federal Territories.
“Also, all Malaysians, particularly in the Federal Territories, must continue to work hard and with full commitment to bring further progress for our beloved Malaysia,” he said at an investiture in conjunction with Federal Territories Day at Istana Negara here today.
Also present was Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Hajah Haminah.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and wife Puan Sri Noorainee Abdul Rahman and Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor were also present.
His Majesty also congratulated the administration under the leadership of Najib for the excellence in planning development and running the three Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan.
At the same time, Tuanku Abdul Halim also urged all strata of society to be of "one heart" and give their full support to the government's administration machinery in facing the challenges the country might face this year.
His Majesty also urged to people to set aside racial differences and enhance their relationship with each other irrespective of race, heritage, religion or ideology.
Reflecting on important events in 2014, he said Malaysia had faced unexpected tests including the volatile global economy which had an effect on the nation's economic growth. However, His Majesty said with wisdom and government efficiency, Malaysia not only weathered the tough economic conditions but was also able to show encouraging economic growth.
Touching on the massive floods that hit the east coast states in the peninsula at the end of 2014, he said despite the monumental challenges, Malaysians from all walks of life came together to help the flood victims in their hour of need.
"I felt sympathy over the misfortune that befell my subjects. However, I also believe, from each disaster that happens, there are hidden blessing as well," he said.
He thanked the Prime Minister, the government and all involved in assisting the flood victims.
"I am confident that it (flood disaster) not only will bring us closer together but make us stronger and more vigilant in facing such challenges in future," he said.
To the recipients of awards and medals this year, His Majesty urged them to safeguard their reputation so as not to besmirch the recognitions accorded.
Heading the list of 356 awards and medal recipients was Attorney-General Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail who was conferred the Seri Mahkota Wilayah award which carries the title "Datuk Seri Utama".
Other recipients included renowned actor Jackie Chan who was conferred the Panglima Mahkota Wilayah award which carries the title "Datuk".
Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Sarawak Bureau head Abdul Aziz Harun was conferred the Ahli Mahkota Wilayah medal.--BERNAMA