Deputy minister upholds loyalty to monarch
By Azlan Othman

The Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs yesterday called on the Muslim Ummah to remain loyal to their ruler.

In delivering a sermon during Hari Raya Aidil Adha prayers yesterday at Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Hj Awg Badaruddin said, "'Ulil Amri Minkum' in general means leaders at every level of life.

"But in the context of a nation and government, 'Ulil Amri Minkum' means the supreme leader of the government and the nation and in the context of Brunei, 'Ulil Amri' is His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam."

Pehin Hj Badaruddin said Islam has been practised for centuries in the Sultanate and has influenced the way of life of Bruneians. For more than 600 years, Brunei has implemented the monarchy system that uses the teachings of Islam and the monarch is cemented with religious teachings, which requires the rakyat to be faithful to the leader.

"Loyalty should be shown continuously as long as the monarch or 'Ulil Amri' does not breach or disobey Allah the Almighty.

"In the context of Brunei, the monarchy system is compatible with our life affairs. It has been tested and has experienced decisive moments. However during that period, it has proven to be able to maintain its survival and superiority," he added.

The deputy minister urged the rakyat to put a stop to any intentions or acts, be it written, verbal or posted on web sites that affect the sovereignty, respect and superiority of the monarchy.

"It is totally inappropriate for any acts, words and intentions that are not in line with the reality of the monarchy system. The same also goes to words spelt out or written either on a piece of paper or posted on web sites that tantamounts to sounding mischievous.

"The intention, act, writing or verbal conversation anywhere and in any form that could be translated as affecting the sovereignty, respect and superiority of the monarch that is our 'Ulil Amri' or leader should be stopped.

"It should not be allowed to continue because some elements might take this opportunity (for their own agenda) to create disturbance to the security of our beloved nation," Pehin Hj Badaruddin said.

He said certain sections of the community are making such mischievous remarks. It may be from outside the country, but with the advancement of Information and Communication Technology, it could easily be seen and read here thereby inviting mischief from people in this country.

In this context, we must take words of wisdom from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that advised us not to insult leaders and instead pray for their welfare.

"Bruneians are not known for disgraceful acts against the monarch. We put the monarch in an exalted position and politely communicate with the monarch with nobility. Allah reminds us not to make any slandering remarks that could lead to calamity."

Pehin Hj Awg Badaruddin said it is vital for the monarchy system to be preserved and nurtured and added that it is the rakyat's responsibility in protecting it against any attempts to destabilise it as it represents their symbol of leadership. - Borneo Bulletin (12th Jan 2006)


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