Malaysians should continue to defend the stability and unity in the country to ensure that Malaysia continues to progress and be prosperous, said the Yang diPertuan Agong, Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah.

"I am very concerned about the various challenges and issues that we are facing now.

"Among others, there are moments of disunity which have been instigated by certain parties who are irresponsible," said the King in his speech in conjunction with his official birthday celebrations tomorrow, broadcast live by TV1, Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), Friday night.

He said it was not easy to build unity among people of various races in the country, and if this was not preserved, it would all be gone in the blink of an eye.

Malaysia, he said, should learn a lesson from the instability and tensions in other countries, whether politically, inter-racial strife or the negative elements which create chaos.

He also expressed fear that if these problems were not curtailed and quickly resolved, they could spread throughout the country.

He also urged the public of all levels and fields to remain united for the sake of the society and country.

He also expressed his gratitude to the country's leaders led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak as well as the whole administration.

He said without a government which was capable and committed as the one today, it would not be possible for a nation to attain continuing success, progress and prosperity.

"We must be grateful to Allah because our country is still peaceful and prosperous because of the national stability and unity.

"These are the results of an efficient and responsible government for many years," he said.