Perak Ruler Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah (centre) at the book launch of "Sikhs in Malaysia: A Comprehensive History" by Dr Ranjit Singh Malhi on Saturday. -AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star PETALING JAYA: From contributions dating way back to the British colonial era, the Sikh community have played an important role in the development of the country and they are a crucial aspect of Malaysia's racially diverse setting, says Perak Ruler Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah. Sultan Nazrin said the Sikh community had always stood out and made their presence known despite making up only 2.5% of the population. "These five characteristics - adaptability; patriotism; commitment to education; hard work and thriftiness; and respect for tradition - have together empowered the Sikhs to conquer the highest heights in modern Malaysia.