The Value of Patriotism Based on the Principles of Rukun Negara in Islam: Engaging the Reality of Malaysia’s Plural Society (2018-2024)

• Published in: Intellectual Discourse
• Main Author: Din H.A.M.; Anas N.; Aziz S.Ab.; Karim R.A.; Ismail M.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: International Islamic University Malaysia 2025
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85217016394&partnerID=40&md5=a7f7e87d4db6ea35a875650d43463169

Changes in the reins of the national government since 2018 have had an impact on the value of patriotism among Malaysians. The principles of the Rukun Negara are neglected as the basis of unity. Instead, communities often conflict with each other due to differences in political ideologies that affect ethnic harmony in Malaysia. The issue of insulting Islam and the institution of the Constitutional Monarch is increasing. For example, this includes incidents insulting the national coat of arms, the issue of the Jawi script and the act of putting the Malaysian flag upside down by irresponsible individuals. Even worse, several cases have been committed by Malay and Muslim individuals. Some citizens do not appreciate the value of patriotism in the Rukun Negara, which is the pillar of harmony between ethnic groups in Malaysia. This article examines the concept of patriotism based on the Rukun Negara in Islam and the effect of its neglect on the harmony of the pluralistic society in Malaysia as well as its relationship with the current government policies regarding unity. The value of patriotism based on the Rukun Negara, which preserves religion, the institution of the Constitutional Monarch in the country, the rule of law and character must be sown and cultivated in every citizen of this country to maintain national unity, which is the heart of peace and the backbone of the country’s social well-being. Copyright © IIUM Press.