Leaders must rise above division and avoid exploiting national challenges for political gain as Malaysia braces for potential global economic shocks, said the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
Speaking at the opening of the Fourth Year of the Fifteenth Perak State Legislative Assembly at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan, Sultan Nazrin warned that rising geopolitical tensions involving major global powers could trigger prolonged instability affecting energy supplies, food security, financial systems and broader economic resilience.
He stressed that the current international climate demands seriousness, discipline and unity from all stakeholders, particularly as countries face external shocks beyond their control.
“This is not the time to fish in troubled waters, to sensationalise, or to exploit the situation for narrow political gain,” he said, calling on both government and opposition assembly members, as well as political, community and public sector leaders, to work towards a shared national purpose.
Sultan Nazrin added that only a united front rooted in loyalty to the monarchy and the nation would be able to safeguard stability and ensure the well-being of the people.
He also warned of the possibility of an energy crisis and disruptions to food supply chains, saying the public must be clearly informed through transparent and accessible communication.
Emphasising shared responsibility, he urged citizens to adopt prudent consumption habits, including reducing fuel usage, avoiding waste, and using electricity more efficiently to help ease subsidy pressures.
The Ruler said such collective discipline was vital as Malaysia prepares for the possibility of a prolonged global crisis linked to ongoing conflicts involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which he said could have far-reaching global consequences.
He also highlighted that national resilience must include safeguarding economic stability, securing food supplies and strengthening unity in Malaysia’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, describing harmony as one of the country’s most valuable assets.
Sultan Nazrin reiterated that overcoming future challenges would require solidarity from all segments of society, urging Malaysians to “stand shoulder to shoulder” in navigating uncertain times ahead.
