In his khutbah or sermon marking Hari Raya Aidil Adha, Pehin Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin stressed that Islam advocates its followers to remain loyal to their ruler. In the context of Brunei Darussalam’s leadership, the country practices the Monarchy system; hence, the people must pay allegiance to the Monarch. According to the Pehin, loyalty to the Monarch is cemented to religious teachings which require the rakyat to be faithful to the Ulil Amri or leader. He said the sense of loyalty should prevail as long as the Monarch or Ulil Amri does not breach or disobey Allah the Almighty. In this regard, the Monarchy system which is based on Islam puts the Monarch in the highest of positions. This essence is what makes the Sultan a revered leader. In line with this concept, the ruling Monarch holds the trust for the interest of the country’s security and harmony of the people.
The Pehin went on to say, the Monarchy system for Brunei Darussalam is not new nor is it created by other people. It is rooted in the history and civilisation of the nation. Because of this, it is vital for the system to be preserved, nurtured and developed. The rakyat and citizens are responsible in protecting it from any attempts to destabilise it because it represents the symbol of their leadership. It is also the most important aspect of pride and dignity of Bruneians. He reminded Muslims against any act, expression or intention that contradicts the system. This goes true to such indecent act as writing in websites against the monarchy leadership system. Such attempt either in the form of intention, written expression or be orally expressed that could affect the status of the Ulil Amri, should be curbed and stopped at all costs, to avert those with their own agenda to take advantage of the situation for their own interest.
(12th Jan 2006)
