Monarchy remains relevant to safeguard country from extremist, divisive elements: TMJ  

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s monarchy will continue to serve as a crucial safeguard against the rise of a “dictator” and “extremism” in the current political landscape that is rife with racially divisive sentiments.

Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim also underscored the relevance of the constitutional monarchy system, emphasising its role in providing essential checks and balances to ensure government accountability and the welfare of the people.

“Let’s say if this country goes more to the right (wing) of extremism and so on, I don’t think any politician will object to that because they need the numbers, ratings and support. 

“But for us (the monarchy), who don’t need the numbers, give us a platform (or) foundation where we can give our opinion on what we feel is good for the country without being populist or afraid of offending people,” Tunku Ismail said. 

The royal figure said this during a Keluar Sekejap podcast session, which aired tonight, with former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin and ex-Umno information chief Shahril Sufian Hamdan. 

Tunku Ismail also said that in the absence of the monarchy’s vital role in serving as a check and balance on the government, there could be attempts to govern the nation in an authoritarian manner. 

“Of course we provide check and balance. If not, I think you will have a dictator in Malaysia because today, you can easily control someone by playing with the sentiment of religion, for example, using religion to attract people’s support.” 

When questioned by Khairy on whether such sentiments gaining traction among voters would be considered “right” in a democracy, Tunku Ismail answered in the affirmative. 

“Yes, of course. But, (the monarchy) provides check and balance in terms of making decisions. Let’s say that a decision is right and it should be made, but it is not that popular,” he said. 

“I don’t think any politician will (make the decision), because he thinks about his supporters. Even though we (monarchy) cannot make that decision, we can share our views and provide checks and balances between us and the politicians. 

“We can say ‘why don’t you do something like this?’ and see whether we can come up with something more relevant that the public can accept.” 

However, Tunku Ismail noted that the time has come for the royals to adopt a more rakyat-friendly approach as part of attempts to better recognise the plights faced by the people.

“The monarchy is still relevant, but we also have to change our ways (and) get closer to the people. It’s not just about attending or appearing at official events, but going down (to the ground),” he said. 

“I don’t blame the people who feel that we’re not doing enough, because they don’t know what’s going on. If I don’t speak out or educate the people on what our role is or what contributions we have given to the people, the people will not know. 

“That’s why I think engagement is very important to maintain (with) closer and more approachable relations.” – October 29, 2023