The Regent of Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah said that challenging matters pertaining to Islam or quoting inaccurate examples aimed at portraying it as a negative religion, was against religious harmony and tolerance.

He noted that there appeared to be encroachment into the boundaries of Islam recently.

"The Malay sultanate, Ulama (cleric) and Muslims do not oppress, insult or belittle other religions. In fact extremist behaviour attempted by any parties will be quelled immediately and firmly.

"Furthermore, the rights of other religions are also enshrined in the Federal Constitution," he said during the Perak state level Maulidur Rasul celebrations at the Felda Mara Junior Science College, here today.

Religious issues must be handled in a religious spirit by the Ulama and those who are knowledgeable in their respective religion to resolve such problems, instead of sensationalising them for political gains, he added.

Saying that the leadership qualities of Prophet Muhammad should be emulated, he added: "The Prophet's teachings are very relevant in our country's context of diverse races, religions, languages and cultures. The Prophet always upheld the principles of fairness and justice based on Allah's teachings in handling conflicts between various races and devotees."

He further said Prophet Muhammad's integrity in not giving preference to family members and close friends should also be made an example.

"A large part of the Ummah's problems today are caused by the lack of integrity, especially by those entrusted with power," he said.

He emphasised that the Prophet's actions and quiet demeanour encompassed universal values which crossed religious, racial and regional boundaries.

Therefore, Raja Nazrin expressed his opinion of allowing non-Muslims to be given the space to join the Maulidur Rasul celebrations to increase their awareness of Islam.

He said such an approach could be a platform to unite the people, promote harmony and enhance inter-religious ties.