Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah today reminded politicians in the country to stop politicking for their own interests.

The King said the matter has been dragged on for so long that it has exhausted the people and the government.

“We hope all parties demonstrate exemplary behaviour by working together and offering constructive ideas that will contribute to the wellbeing of the people and the prosperity of the country.

“In a parliamentary democracy, differences in opinion are valued but refrain from fostering enmity and slander that can lead to the downfall of the nation,” said Tuanku Abdul Halim at the opening of the First Meeting of the 13th Parliament at Parliament House, here today.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah at the opening of the First Meeting of the 13th Parliament at Parliament House. - Astro AWANI / SHAHIR OMAR

His Majesty also urged politicians and the people of Malaysia to unite and love this country.

“Give it your undivided loyalty, defend and protect the country,” said Tuanku Abdul Halim.

Also gracing the opening ceremony was the Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tuan­ku Hajah Haminah.