The Five Principles of Nationhood or Rukunegara was formulated after the racial riots of May 13, 1969, in an attempt to base the national philosophy on unity and progressiveness (as a whole), whereby concepts which are universal and acceptable to all Malaysian citizens, regardless of ethnic origin or religious affiliation, were adopted as the ideology of the country.

The principles enshrined in the Rukunegara were officially introduced on Aug 31, 1970, in the hopes that it would strengthen national unity in Malaysia's multicultural society.

The declaration of the five principles has been formulated as follows:

Our nation, Malaysia is dedicated to:

• Achieving a greater unity for all her peoples;
• Maintaining a democratic way of life;
• Creating a just society in which the wealth of the nation shall be equitably distributed;
• Ensuring a liberal approach to her rich and diverse cultural traditions; and
• Building a progressive society which shall be orientated to modern science and technology.

We, her peoples, pledge our united efforts to attain these ends guided by these principles:

1. Kepercayaan kepada Tuhan (Belief in God)
2. Kesetiaan kepada Raja dan Negara (Loyalty to King and Country)
3. Keluhuran Perlembagaan (Supremacy of the Constitution)
4. Kedaulatan Undang-undang (Rule of Law)
5. Kesopanan dan Kesusilaan (Mutual Respect and Morality)