PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has grown by leaps and bounds while undergoing several spectacular episodes of ‘hijrah’ (evolution) since the country gained its independence 62 years ago.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah said apart from rapid development and stronger economic growth, the nation’s political landscape has matured.
“From my observation, there is still room for us to continue embracing hijrah together,” said Sultan Abdullah in his speech at the national-level Maal Hijrah celebration here today.
Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, was present.
Also present were Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa.
“The strengthening of ethics and nurturing noble values are important in the management and administration of the country.
“Building a developed nation without the highest culture of integrity will deviate the country from the true form of hijrah.
“I fully support efforts to implement the administration of the country based on the discipline outlined in Maqasid Syariah (primary goals of the Islamic law).
“The highest form of hijrah can be achieved by upholding good and rejecting all forms of prejudices among people in the country,” the King said.
Islam, he said, encourages and promotes peace and good relationships within society, which should be emphasised among the people to strengthen unity.
“The is to ensure that the country achieves a higher form of hijrah through the spirit of tolerance and cooperation among people from various races, which is the strength of the country’s unity.
“This concept, however, should not be interpreted in a general manner to the extent of violating the teachings of the religion.
“Matters and efforts that are against the teachings of Islam, if tolerated, will lead to the collapse of the religion’s ‘wall’.
“In our efforts to embrace hijrah and tolerance among society, we should not neglect the demands of the religion.”