Close Ties Among Multiracial People Invaluable Asset - Pahang MB

KUANTAN, Aug 14 (Bernama) -- The close ties between people of various races and religions in the country are an invaluable asset, symbolising not only independence but also the nation’s peace and prosperity, said Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.

He therefore urged all parties to avoid division, which would only bring harm, and to ensure that differences of opinion do not sever bonds of friendship or fuel hostility among the people.

“This national spirit calls for us to continue safeguarding the racial harmony we have built over the years. We must firmly reject the perception game, slander and accusations deliberately spread to divide the people.

“This matter will not only erode trust among us but also cause disunity, spark hostility and undermine the stability of the state and the country,” he said  in his winding-up speech at the Pahang State Legislative Assembly sitting at Wisma Sri Pahang here today.

Wan Rosdy also urged all parties to embrace independence with the spirit of tolerance, mutual understanding and the determination to build a brighter future together.

“I call on all assembly members and the people of Pahang to liberate themselves not only from physical colonisation but also from the shackles of hatred, suspicion and division,” he said.

Meanwhile, Wan Rosdy, when met by reporters after the sitting, described the Pahang supplementary budget approved today as one of the lowest since 2022.

He said the RM141 million supplementary budget covered seven items, including an increase in civil servant salaries and pension payments for government retirees.

“This is mandatory and cannot be avoided. The state government must make this payment. A supplementary budget is a normal process for any state or government to address unforeseen matters,” he said.

--BERNAMA