Sultan Nazrin calls for less political rivalry among Malaysia’s Muslim leaders

IPOH, Aug 25 — Sultan Nazrin Shah, the Sultan of Perak, has called for reduced political rivalry among Malaysia’s Muslim leaders, stating that growing differences in politics, religious schools of thought, race, and personal interests are undermining the spirit of brotherhood among Muslims. He warns that factors such as the pursuit of influence, rank, position, wealth, and worldly comforts are diminishing the importance of unity.

Sultan Nazrin urged Muslim leaders, Islamic organizations, and movements to refrain from unnecessary disputes and instead focus on initiatives that strengthen the ummah's identity and progress. He expressed gratitude for positive efforts to promote Islamic education, such as Islamic economics, finance, the halal industry, waqf, digital da'wah, and family institution strengthening.

These initiatives should be expanded and successfully implemented. The Sultan made these remarks during his royal address at the Perak-level Maulidur Rasul celebration, where he highlighted the challenges posed by increasing global influences, including social media, popular culture, entertainment, and modern lifestyles. He emphasized the need for wise approaches and strategies to ensure that modernization does not erode Islamic principles and identity, warning that modernization could lead to a loss of confidence in one's own identity if not balanced properly.