KLANG: A state's progress should not be measured solely by billion-ringgit investments, rapid development or high gross domestic product (GDP), but by whether its people benefit from its wealth, said Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
He said there was little value in a state amassing great wealth if its people continued to struggle.
"True progress is achieved when the wealth generated by the state can be enjoyed by all its people. In a developed and wealthy state, the people, especially the poor and underprivileged, should benefit from that prosperity.
"The people should be provided with quality education, affordable housing and ample job opportunities, while being able to enjoy a clean and healthy environment.
"What must be emphasised is that the people should never feel forgotten by the government in its pursuit of rapid development," he said.
He was speaking at the investiture ceremony for the appointment and swearing-in of members of the Selangor Royal Court and royal dignitaries, as well as the conferment of Selangor state honours, at Istana Alam Shah here today.
Sultan Sharafuddin urged the state government to work hard to achieve success and progress across all sectors.
"I want to see Selangor remain progressive and competitive, with a high level of modernisation and an educated and accomplished population, while continuing to uphold religious values, good manners and humanity," he said.
The Sultan also said being a ruler was not a position of prestige to be proud of, but a trust and responsibility entrusted by Allah to safeguard the welfare and prosperity of Selangor's people and preserve the sanctity and dignity of Islam.
He recalled the pledge he made during his installation and coronation as Sultan on March 8, 2003, to uphold the sanctity of Islam and govern Selangor fairly, justly and honestly for the well-being of its people, in accordance with the Selangor Constitution of 1959.
"I take this opportunity to renew my pledge to continue safeguarding the sanctity of Islam and governing with fairness, honesty and responsibility for the prosperity of our beloved Selangor and its people," he said.
Sultan Sharafuddin also thanked Selangor residents for their continued support, prayers for him and his family, and trust in his leadership.
"I do not regard these 25 years as a personal achievement, but as a trust and a service to the people that I must fulfil. As long as Allah grants me the strength and opportunity, I will continue to discharge this responsibility to the best of my ability.
"I promise to continue protecting the people, safeguarding the religion and defending Selangor against any threats," he said.
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