Sultan Sharafuddin urges Malays and Muslims to end internal divisions, warning prolonged political disputes weaken the community.
PETALING JAYA: The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has called for stronger unity among Malays and Muslims in Malaysia, warning that prolonged internal divisions and political disputes could weaken the community and leave it vulnerable to outside influence.
In his Hari Raya Aidiladha 2026 royal address, the ruler expressed concern over growing tensions and disagreements, particularly within the political sphere, saying recent developments had created unease among the public.
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Sultan Sharafuddin urged Malays and Muslims from political leaders to ordinary citizens to prioritise unity and avoid prolonged conflict, stressing that continued divisions would ultimately carry consequences for the community itself.
“If we continue to be divided and quarrel among ourselves, we will ultimately be the ones to suffer the losses and weaknesses that follow,” he said.
Reflecting on lessons from history, the Sultan said internal divisions among Malays and Muslims had previously created opportunities for external forces to exploit weaknesses and diminish their standing in the region.
At the same time, His Majesty emphasised that efforts to strengthen Malay unity should not be misunderstood as hostility towards other ethnic groups.
“I wish to stress that Malay unity should not be misinterpreted as an effort to create hostility towards other races in this country.
“The strength of a united community will make the nation more peaceful, stable and foster mutual respect among its people,” Sultan Sharafuddin said.
Touching on the significance of Aidiladha, His Majesty said the celebration carries important lessons on sacrifice, sincerity and solidarity within the Muslim community, citing the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah as a powerful example of unity across different backgrounds and social classes.
“Aidiladha teaches us the meaning of sacrifice, sincerity and the unity of the ummah,” he said, adding that the pilgrimage reflects “a form of unity that carries immense value for the entire Islamic world.”
Extending his message beyond the Malay-Muslim community, the Sultan also urged Malaysians of all races and faiths to continue respecting one another’s sensitivities and preserve harmony.
Sultan Sharafuddin added that Islamic civilisation had historically flourished during periods of peaceful coexistence among diverse communities, including during the Ottoman Empire era.
“In conjunction with this Aidiladha celebration, I also call upon all races, communities and followers of every religion in this country to respect one another’s sensitivities and live together in peace and harmony,” he said.
Sultan Sharafuddin and the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor also conveyed prayers and well wishes to Malaysian pilgrims performing the Hajj, expressing hope for their safety, good health and an accepted pilgrimage before returning home safely.
