KUALA LUMPUR: Despite numerous reminders and warnings issued by the authorities, sensitive issues related to religion, race, and the royal institution (3R) are still being manipulated by certain parties for personal gain.

There are thousands if not millions of other topics that can be discussed, just avoid these three things. Is it too much to ask?

What is there for the country to look forward to if the 'elderly' themselves are stubborn and do not respect the sovereignty of the royal institution, the sanctity of religion, and the harmony among different races within the nation? Is this what we are trying to teach the younger generation?

Speaking to Bernama, political analyst Prof Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said that it is an unwarranted and unwise action for anyone, especially leaders, to play with the emotions of the people, considering that these three things have been the pillars of strength for this nation for so long.

"It should be monitored, and if the offence is repeated, they should be swiftly prosecuted. Apologies are no longer a means of escape; those responsible in this matter should be punished accordingly," he said.

Recently, a video clip lasting two minutes and 50 seconds showing an excerpt from Sultan Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah's speech during Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Ummah Unity Talk at Balai Budaya Tun Syed Nasir, Kuala Lumpur on Feb 19, 2013, went viral on social media.

Not only it was taken out of context, but it is also alleged that the intention behind it was to associate and exploit His Majesty's position for political gain and pursuit of political interests.

Before that, Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Noor was charged in the Selayang Sessions Court for committing an act with a tendency to incite by uttering words that tend to raise feelings of disloyalty towards any ruler.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim voiced his disapproval of certain individuals who manipulated Sultan Nazrin Shah's speech for political motives.

He firmly stated that he will not show sympathy towards any party that shows disrespect towards the royal institution.

Sivamurugan said political party leaders, especially those speaking on public platforms, should demonstrate political maturity by presenting rational and practical issues that align with the future direction of the country.

They should refrain from merely playing with the emotions of the people for the sake of gaining votes, he said.

"If the 3R issue continues to be played and manipulated, wouldn't it lead to politics of hatred, which should be completely rejected in our efforts to celebrate diversity and preserve what we have built?" he chided.

Malaysian Unity Foundation trustee Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, on the other hand, urged all leaders to serve as positive role models for the community, with a particular focus on fostering unity in the diverse multicultural society.

"It should start with political leaders, as they should be exemplary models for the people. If a leader uses issues like this for their own benefit, it is not a good example," he said.

The 76-year-old community activist emphasised that unity and harmony among different ethnic groups are crucial elements that will shape the future stability and prosperity of the country.

"If we want to achieve or strive for unity, we must firmly adhere to the Federal Constitution and the Rukun Negara as both serve as fundamental pillars in nation-building.

"So, if we respect and uphold these two, we must avoid the 3R issue as it is a sensitive matter that can potentially lead to unrest and conflicts between ethnic groups," he said.

Lee also said that engaging in debates is acceptable for both the government and opposition to share their views, but it's best to steer clear of the 3R issue.

"Play up other issues; there are plenty of other topics that can be discussed," he said.

Prior to this, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain was also reported to have said that the police will not compromise on matters related to the 3R issue, especially in view of the six state elections, and anyone involved will face legal action under the Election Offences Act 1954.

-- BERNAMA