Sultan Nazrin: This is a 'defining moment' in Malaysia's history

IPOH: Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah said that Malaysians have brought about an unprecedented political transformation through the ballot box in the 14th General Election two months ago.
"From this defining moment in our country's relatively young history, I do hope that the citizens of Malaysia feel empowered to make their mark, and to influence their future.
"As I stressed a little over a decade ago, 'Malaysians of all races, religion and geographic locations need to believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that they have a place under the Malaysian sun'," he added.
Sultan Nazrin said this in his keynote address at the three day 5th World Conference On Islamic Thought and Civilisation, entitled "Global Peace:Towards a More Inclusive and Trusting World Community," here today.
The conference, which began on Monday, will see a total of 30 regional and international scholars, intellectuals and professionals from 21 countries expressing themselves in a dynamic and rigorous exchange of ideas.
Sultan Nazrin said that there is no denying, however, that there will be "growing pains" in our journey to make Malaysia a mature democracy.
"That is why I believe that we should not leave anyone behind in this process, including those with whom we may disagree.
"We must avoid the unhealthy practices made in some countries where, following an important victory, the winner takes all," he added.
He went on to say that everyone should be part of this journey, and they should be mindful to involve all of the nation's stakeholders in this historic journey.
On the conference, he said that it gathers together some of the world's finest thinkers, speakers and scholars, to reflect on the important challenge of "Securing the Future", and to share ideas about practical strategies for doing so.