KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians should play their part by pledging their unwavering loyalty to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the country's leadership, to maintain and safeguard the country's harmony and stability.

In a special Friday sermon, in conjunction with the celebration of the official birthday of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, this Monday (June 5), entitled "Dirgahayu Tuanku: Di Bawah Naungan Ilahi", it explained that obeying the government is one of the religious demands, as stated in the Quran and the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW.

"People need to carry out their respective responsibilities to maintain and safeguard the stability of the country. These responsibilities and obligations complement each other and produce comprehensive results for everyone.

"His Majesty's decrees should always be embedded in our hearts for us to be responsible as good citizens and work together to prosper this beloved country," it said.

The text of the special sermon today is prepared by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim).

The sermon also touched on Al-Sultan Abdullah's reign, where the people witnessed and enjoyed His Majesty's wisdom and justice in managing governance, and resolving many issues and conflicts which arise.

"His Majesty has acted as a social glue, which unites the spirit of camaraderie and unity between the people of multiple races in this country. He strongly emphasises the spirit of goodwill and mutual respect between races, which is the basis of the country's stability," it said.

The sermon also emphasised that the role of His Majesty and the Malay Rulers is very important in ensuring that Islam remains at the highest position in the government of the country, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

"Through the Constitutional Monarchy, the King is placed in the highest position, and has the function of not only protecting religion but becoming a symbol of the unity and well-being of the entire community.

"The King's power goes beyond political interests, whose decisions or orders are based on the interests of the country, the well-being of the people, the protector of the constitution and so on," according to the sermon.

The sermon also stated that any event which occurred during His Majesty's reign is a historical record that cannot be erased or denied, including when dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a major impact on the structure of public health, economy, education and administration, in addition to drastic changes in the political landscape.

"However, with the wisdom of His Majesty and the blessings of guidance and mercy of Allah SWT, we can all rise up and safeguard the stability and well-being of this beloved country," it said.

-- BERNAMA