The Malays should be bold in changing their mindset to deal with the physical, social, economic and political changes in the country, said the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah.

He expressed fear of the Malay race becoming extinct like the dinosaurs if they failed to change their mindset.

"Dinosaurs have a large body but a small brain and they are incapable of adapting to environmental changes, choosing to remain in their old habitats.

“Eventually their population will shrink and they become extinct leaving behind just their fossils for exhibition in the museums and as study materials," he said.

Sultan Nazrin Shah said this at the ‘Malam Semarak Perjuangan’ held in conjunction with the Tokoh Srikandi  2018 Award ceremony at the Istana Hotel, Friday night. The event was organised by Gabungan Pelajar Melayu Semenanjung Malaysia (GPMS).

He said Malays must be able to embrace change in facing a new political climate following the 14th general election so that they would not be left behind in the face of the fourth industrial revolution and artificial Intelligence (AI).

“The Malays should examine the current reality, accept the fact that there is a new environment out there on the country and world stage. Open your eyes, wake up and accept the bitter truth," he said.

Meanwhile, he said Malays who want to progress and be respected should not allow themselves to be slaves to wealth that they were willing to give up their principles and values.

According to Sultan Nazrin, although the number of Malay professionals had increased, the Malays were still lagging behind, compared to other races.

"Corruption and integrity scandals have been reported to be increasing and happening on a massive scale, often committed by Malay professionals which goes against the principles of Islam which had often stressed on honesty, trust, self-respect and dignity.

"With all these weaknesses the Malays should admit and correct their mistakes immediately,” he said.

- Bernama