Raja Nazrin: Civil society becoming uncivil

Raja Muda of Perak Raja Nazrin Shah says Malaysians are increasingly polarised and blames civil society groups for contributing to this scenerio.

In an apparent reference to the Bersih 3.0 rally, which was organised by a coalition of NGOs, Raja Nazrin (right) urged Malaysians to exercise moderation.

“Civil society is rapidly becoming uncivil, and the spirit of give and take is being replaced with the spirit of take and take,” said he said.

Raja Nazrin said this during this address at the annual Razak Lecture Series organised by the Razak School of Government in Kuala Lumpur today.

One of the main challenges of governance, he said, is to manage an increasingly polarised society and that moderation should prevail over extremism.

The Perak Regent also said Malaysia was experiencing change, as seen by recent reforms and transformations in the laws related to civil liberties and national security.

“Our laws have been updated to reflect contemporary society and international norms,” he said.

However, Raja Nazrin called on Malaysians not to be excessive with regard to human rights, saying the people should not exclude duty and responsibility in the pursuit of rights.

He also called for Malaysians to be discerning in politics, and not to be affected by half-truths.

“Ordinary citizens must not be swayed by false promises and character assassinations,” he said.

Raja Nazrin went on to praise the institution of monarchy, calling it a stabiliser provided for by the constitution, which can act as check-and-balance on the government.