RULER CONCERNED OVER ATTEMPTS TO UNDERMINE UNITY

KANGAR (Malaysia), Sept 1 (Bernama) -- The Ruler of northern state of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Syed Putra Jamalullail, is concerned over what he describes as the perpetration of the "divide and rule" policy by certain quarters which can undermine unity among the people.

He said that although these groups were not many, their attempts could have
a detrimental effect on the country's efforts to unite the people under the
1Malaysia concept.

Speaking when launching the state-level 52nd National Day celebrations here
Monday night, he said, the divide and rule policy so effectively used by the
colonial power to split the people at one time, had now been given a new lease
of life by certain groups to advance their narrow political agenda.

"They are bent on pitting the people against one another, playing up
sensitive issues, bringing up religious prejudices and questioning the social
contract," he said.

He said that these groups were only thinking of their own self interests
without concern for the consequences of their actions over the long term.

Citing the May 13, 1969 incident as an example, he said, it took a long time
to restore harmony among the people in the aftermath of the racial clashes.

"It's like a wound; although healed, you can still see the scar and each
time you see it, your heart bleeds," he said.

Expressing the hope that there would not be a repeat of the May 13 incident,
the ruler also called on the people to strive to make 1Malaysia a success.

"All races must unite, respect one another and abide by the constitution and
the country's law," he said.

He also called on the people to strive towards achieving the government's
vision to turn Malaysia into a developed nation by 2020.

"We have about 10 years to go and it is approaching fast," he said.

He also expressed concerns over the pace of development in Perlis, which he
said was still lagging behind other states.
-- BERNAMA