'Rulers may disagree with govt leaders' - Star

KUCHING: Nov 7, 2008

The Rulers shall not agree with advice given by government leaders which goes against the spirit of the constitution, rule of law and universal principles of justice, the Raja Muda of Perak Raja Nazrin Shah said Thursday night.

“Generally, the Rulers act based on the advice by government leaders elected by the people. Nevertheless, the Rulers cannot accede to acts which do not symbolise justice or sanction moves which do not mirror truth.

“The Rulers’ views, observation and counsel in the administrative affairs of the country touching on the question of integrity which encompasses justice, law, judiciary, misappropriation, power abuse, corruption and wealth distribution, are with the desire to strengthing the Government so that it is stable and receives people’s trust,” he said at a dinner in conjunction with the National Integrity Day here.

To ensure the Rulers’ integrity is not questioned and the throne remains respected, Raja Nazrin said, the Rulers shall always be intelligent and wise, master knowledge, understand the surroundings and changes, and possess a group of advisers comprising experts and people knowledgeable in the relevant fields.

“This will enable the Rulers to fulfil their roles with integrity and make the smart, accurate, just and fair decisions,” he said.

Present were Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud and Chief Justice Tan Sri Zaki Tun Azmi.

Raja Nazrin said the Rulers are part of national institutions whose role is to strengthen the democratic system by carrying out the check and balance responsibility and the function as an independent tribunal for the legislative, executive and judiciary branches.

As a source of reference should a crisis occur, he said, the Rulers function as the balancing mechanism which safeguards national stability, protects people’s wellbeing, ensures justice, enhances the Government’s integrity and strengthens the democratic practice in the country.

“The Rulers have a role as the pillar of stability - source of justice, thrust of unity - hence enhancing the level of people’s confidence in the systems of governance and society based on democratic practices, rooted on the doctrine of the separation of powers.

“The Rulers have constitutional responsibilities and the responsibilities need to be carried out intelligently so that it can help build a high-integrity country,” he said.

Raja Nazrin said the institution of Rulers shall have the role and function to productively and constructively contribute to the nation.

“The Rulers reside at a special position, have the opportunity to give smart views to influence and determine the direction of the nation positively and constructively through counsel, encouragement, persuasion, reminder and admonition,” he said.

To strengthen integrity practice, Raja Nazrin said, the Rulers shall hold consultations and negotiations, gather opinions and be open minded to assess each advice rationally, objectively and fairly. - Bernama