http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/4/5/nation/17355598&sec=nation

The Star, Thursday April 5, 2007

Raja Nazrin lauded for his concerns on unity
By SHAILA KOSHY

KUALA LUMPUR: The Raja Muda of Perak Raja Nazrin Shah has drawn praise for the timeliness of his views and concerns on nation-building and national unity.

In his keynote address at the Young Malaysians’ Roundtable Discussion on National Unity and Development in Malaysia: Prospects and Challenges for Nation-Building on Tuesday, Raja Nazrin had said that Malaysians of all races, religions and geographic locations needed to believe “beyond a shadow of a doubt” that they have a place under the Malaysian sun. (See: Star Online for full text)
Nazrin: Won praise for his views and concerns on nation-building and national unity.

Kota Baru MP Datuk Zaid Ibrahim said it was refreshing to hear a member of the royalty say these things.

“Raja Nazrin’s views are not novel. These thoughts should be part and parcel of our lives but they are important because they are timely,” he said.

Parliamentary Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang called the address a timely reminder just as Malaysia is turning 50 because of the fundamental issues facing the nation.

Lim said the statement about Malaysians having a place under the sun had a resonance because more and more were feeling and being made to feel that they do not have a place, resulting in despair and hopelessness.

Asli’s Centre for Public Policy Studies chairman Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam said Raja Nazrin’s call reflected the deep concern that there has been some departure from the true administration of the Constitution and implementation of the Government’s socio-economic policies in accordance with the spirit of the Rukunegara, Vision 2020 and national unity.
Bar Council chairman Ambiga Sreenevasan said: “When we speak of the Constitution, we are touching base with the roots of our nation because it’s the Constitution that provides the fundamental framework for Malaysians to live in peace and harmony.”

International Movement for a Just World president Dr Chandra Muzaffar, who said it was significant that a person of Raja Nazrin’s stature had touched on the issues, said there were forces at work which have chosen to interpret certain Constitution provisions in a way to create anxiety in some segments of society.

“By reiterating the Constitution as a defining document in Malaysia’s journey, he has drawn attention to its importance and need to adhere to it.”

Sisters in Islam (SIS) said it supported Raja Nazrin in denouncing all forms of extremism, chauvinism, racism and isolation.

It also urged Muslim organisations and individuals who believe in justice, equality and human rights to “show solidarity with our non-Muslim friends by speaking out against any form of injustices that may be perpetrated against them.”

In the Dewan Rakyat, several MPs also voiced their support to defend the Constitution and work towards national unity.