Individuals Who Refuse to Uphold Rukun Negara Principles Not Deserving of Malaysian Citizenship – Agong

KUALA LUMPUR, 1 June 2026 – His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim, has decreed that any individual who refuses to adhere to the principles of Rukun Negara does not deserve to be called a Malaysian citizen.

The King delivered the royal address during the Investiture Ceremony for the Conferment of Federal Honours, Stars and Medals 2026, held in conjunction with His Majesty’s Official Birthday at Istana Negara today.

Sultan Ibrahim emphasised that Rukun Negara, introduced on 31 August 1970, serves as a solemn pledge and promise by every Malaysian to rebuild racial unity and ensure societal harmony.

“I therefore call upon all parties to truly understand and internalise every principle of Rukun Negara and make it a way of life and guiding principle as citizens of Malaysia.

“Accordingly, if there is any Malaysian citizen who refuses to follow these Rukun Negara principles, I advise that he or she is not deserving of being called a citizen of Malaysia,” His Majesty declared.

The King stressed that every citizen must stand united, practise tolerance, show mutual respect, and firmly uphold the principles of Rukun Negara.

“Unity is the foundation of the nation’s strength that guarantees economic progress, racial harmony and national stability,” Sultan Ibrahim added.

His Majesty also reminded all parties to draw lessons from the tragic 13 May 1969 incident, which arose from extreme actions, insults towards others, and a lack of respect for other races and national sovereignty.

“This incident destroyed the unity of the people and shattered the country’s stability. Let us not allow history to repeat itself,” the King warned.

Also in attendance was the Raja Permaisuri Agong, Raja Zarith Sofiah. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, members of the Cabinet including Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and foreign representatives were present.

This is the third time Sultan Ibrahim has presided over the investiture ceremony since his installation as Yang di-Pertuan Agong on 20 July 2024. A total of 161 individuals received federal honours, stars and medals this year.