Lesson 5

3. Unity and Society

3.3 Principles of Rukun Negara

Malaysian Studies 2

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BACKGROUND

• The Rukun Negara was claimed by the Yang diPeruan Agong on 31st August 1971 ( 13th National Day )

• The decision to formulate national ideology was made after few months after the 13th May, 1969 tragedy.

Rationale of formulation of Rukun Negara• Set of guidance for the people’s use to go through their

daily activities with a sense of responsibility and also feeling safe and assured.

• To develop a sense of patriotism and love for the country among the Malaysian citizen.

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Date Incidence / Instrument Notes13 May 1969 Racial clash erupted A local quarrel flared into a racial

clash16 May 1969 The YDPA declared a state of

emergency. Parliament was suspended. NOC was formed.

Special Ordinance ( Special powers) Emergency, 1969• Curfew enfored• Assemblies banned• Security controls tightened

August - Dec 1969

Special Peace and Development bodies formed:•National Muhibah Committee•National Unity Department

Later combined to formThe Ministry of National Unity

29 Jan 1970 National Consultative / Unity Council was formedSpecial Rukun Negara committee was set up

Advisory body for NOCFormulated normative guidance and set of valued of unity

31 August 1970 Rukun Negara as National Ideology was formalized

Declaration by YDPA on Malaysia’s 13th Independence Anniversary

YDPA – Yang di-Pertuan Agong NOC – National Operations Council3

Principles of Rukun Negara

1. Believing in God

2. Loyalty to the King and Country

3. The transparency of the Constitution

4. The sovereignty of Laws

5. Mannerism and Courtesy

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Context of Rukun Negara

Status and Roles

1. God’s Creation ( servant of God ) Obey teachings of religion

2. Subject of King and Country Be loyal and patriotic

3. Citizen of Democratic Country Fulfill duties

4. Member of Civil Society Respect laws

5. Responsible Individuals Be normative and disciplined

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Believing in God

• Religion is an important element as the absence of religion may destroy one’s personality.

• Religious principles may also serve as a guide for one’s actions, as well as be aware of sins and awards.

• Islam is the official religion in Malaysia, however other religions are free to be practised.

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Loyalty to The King and Country

• This principle stresses on the loyalty of citizens towards the head of country and their respective states.

• Generate responsible citizens and those who are willing to sacrifice for the country.

• Priortises the good of the community and the country without prejudice and racial sentiments.

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The Transparency of the Constitution

• This principles emphasizes that the people are able to accept, obey and defend the nobility of the Constitution.

• This is because the constitution has the role in providing protection and rights for every member of the community.

• If everyone obeys the Constitution, the unity desired by the country will finally be materialized.

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The Sovereignty of Laws

• The laws of the country ensure that every individual in the country has their basic rights secured.

• Every citizens is equal in status from the eyes of the law and is governed by law.

• Laws must be obeyed to ensure the sovereignty can be maintained, community will continue to develop and live in peace and harmony.

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Mannerism and Courtesy

• This principle is to make sure that Malaysians are polite and courteous, emphasize the growth of personality and behavior of a person.

• The way one speak- refined language and behaviour to ensure that good relationships among the different groups can be sustained.

• People have noble morality and avoid sensitive issues and matters agreed by the majority.

• The formation of a harmonious multiracial community will be materialized if every individual in the community can hold firmly to this fifth principle.

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