Warm wishes for the King - DAULAT TUANKU - The Star
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THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 DAULAT TUANKU
Warm wishes for the King
Malaysians celebrate the official birthday of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong
Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today.
THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 Daulat Tuanku 3
NOTE: All photos featured in this pullout in which no face masks are worn were taken prior to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Stories by ONG HAN SEAN, RAHIMY RAHIM and JO TIMBUONG
Sage king with a heart of gold
THE past year has been a tumultu- commitment, bravery and
ous one with the country facing the sacrifices of the frontliners who
Covid-19 pandemic. worked tirelessly to check the
During this time, Yang di-Pertu- spread of the virus.
an Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Abdullah noted that it
Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah was only through the unity of all
Shah has performed his role as a Malaysians that the country would
voice of reason and unity for be able to curb the pandemic.
Malaysians. In particular, the King Recently, Sultan Abdullah
had continuously called for the advised the public to stay at home
people’s cooperation and patience and adhere to the nationwide
in fighting the pandemic. movement control order.
In his recent Hari Raya Aidilfitri His Majesty also repeated his
message, Sultan Abdullah said he advice for the people to prioritise
was aware that the people had to their loved ones and their own
comply with various regulations safety by being disciplined and
imposed to curb the spread of obeying all instructions set by the
Covid-19, as well as the grievances National Security Council.
of those who had been affected In managing the pandemic,
during this period. Sultan Abdullah declared an
His Majesty said he did not want Emergency in January, to be
the harmonious society in Malaysia enforced until Aug 1 or earlier
to fade into discord. in order to contain the spread
“Let’s move forward by taking of Covid-19 after the number of
care of our health and complying infections in the country continued
with all the regulations,” His to increase.
Majesty added. Sultan Abdullah did not give his
Sultan Abdullah also expressed assent in October last year when
his appreciation to all Malaysians, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin
regardless of race and religion, Yassin proposed the move,
who had come together to help saying there was no need for Sultan Abdullah conducting a video call with Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs)
fight Covid-19. an Emergency at that time. Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri at Istana Negara in April 2020. The King had decreed that all meetings
His Majesty called on the people would be held online to maintain physical distancing amid the Covid-19 pandemic. — Photo taken from Istana
to appreciate the contributions, > TURN TO NEXT PAGE Negara’s Instagram page
The King and his son Tengku Panglima Raja Tengku Amir Nasser Ibrahim Shah (fourth from right) performing
Hari Raya Aidilfitri prayers at Istana Negara in May this year. The prayers were carried out with strict adherence
to the Covid-19 standard operating procedure set by the National Security Council. — Bernama
Sultan
Abdullah
inspecting the
guard of
honour during
the opening
ceremony of
the second
session
of the 14th
Parliament in
March 2019.
— AZHAR
MAHFOF/The An electronic billboard outside the Kuala Lumpur City Hall building
Star showing a message from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong thanking
frontliners fighting the Covid-19 pandemic. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
4 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
Model of strength for the people
> FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
People saluting as Sultan Abdullah’s car reaches Istana Negara Sultan Abdullah, Tunku Azizah and their children took off their face masks for a quick family photo in front
ahead of his installation ceremony as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of a mural of the King painted by artist Muhammad Suhaimi Ali on the wall of a building in Klang, Selangor,
in January 2019. — Art Chen/The Star. in July 2020. — KK SHAM/The Star
Sultan Abdullah
posing for a
‘wefie’ with
guests at a
community feast
after Friday
prayers in Masjid
Baru, Temerloh,
Pahang, in
January 2019. —
Sultan Abdullah boarding a boat with Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy
NIK NAIZI
Wan Ismail (in light brown cap) to inspect the flood-hit district of Lipis in January
HUSIN/The Star
this year. — ONG HAN SEAN/The Star
The King admiring a scale model of Istana Mangga Tunggal displayed in the
The King inspecting halal products exhibited during a visit to the Malaysian International Halal Khutubkhanah DiRaja in March this year. Earlier, he was briefed on a proposal to
Showcase at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in April 2019. — AFIQUE sign memorandums of agreement to set up the Al-Sultan Abdullah Research
YUSOFF/The Star Centre for Pahang History and Civilisation. — ONG HAN SEAN/The Star
6 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
Tunku Azizah honouring underprivileged couples with Tunku Azizah Fertility Foundation
Kolej Yayasan Pahang Advanced Skills students showing copies of a recipe book written by sponsorship letters at TAFF’s family day in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, in October 2019.
Tunku Azizah after the launch of the book in October 2018. — NIK NAIZI HUSIN/The Star — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
Warm and
loving Queen
THE consort of a Yang di-Pertuan Ampuan Mariam, Sekolah Rendah
Agong holds the title of Raja Perempuan Sultan Ibrahim and
Permaisuri Agong, which does Sekolah Tun Fatimah, Johor Baru.
not have a stipulated role in the Her Majesty married Sultan
Federal Constitution. Abdullah in March 1986.
As the consort of Al-Sultan Tunku Azizah is known to be
Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa passionate in various fields of the
Billah Shah, Tunku Hajah Azizah arts, with cooking being one of her
Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah favourite activities.
automatically assumed the title of Like the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,
Raja Permaisuri Agong when he the Raja Permaisuri Agong is not
became the Yang di-Pertuan Agong allowed to hold any appointment
in 2019. carrying any remuneration and
Tunku Azizah was born at Istana shall not actively engage in any
Bukit Stulang in Johor Baru on commercial enterprise.
Aug 5, 1960, to Almarhum Sultan The Parliament, however, is
Iskandar and Almarhumah Enche’ legally required to provide a Civil
Besar Hajah Khalsom Abdullah. List of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong
Her brother Sultan Ibrahim Ibni which shall include provision for
Almarhum Sultan Iskandar is the an annuity to be paid to the Raja
Sultan of Johor. Permaisuri Agong.
Tunku Azizah studied at Sekolah Tunku Azizah joining a group of children at a TAFF family day in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, in October 2019. —
Taman Kanak-Kanak Tunku > TURN TO PAGE 8 RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
Sultan Abdullah
and Tunku
Azizah viewing
the colourful
displays during
the 62nd
National Day
parade in
Putrajaya in
August 2019.
— NORAFIFI
Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah taking a photo with a baby T-Rex figurine at the
EHSAN/The
Jurassic Research Centre at The Top, Komtar in George Town, in December 2019. —
Star
CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
8 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
Generous and diligent heart
> FROM PAGE 6
(Above) Tunku Azizah showed her down-to-earth nature when she
boarded the KLIA Express train to catch a flight at the airport in
December 2019. — The Star
(Left) Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah arriving at the Bunga Raya
complex at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport for a ceremonial
welcome ceremony in Parliament in January 2019. — RAJA FAISAL
HISHAN/The Star
The Queen sharing cooking tips with the female inmates and staff members of Bentong Prison
in Pahang during the ‘Beauty Behind The Wall’ programme in November 2018. — AZLINA
ABDULLAH/The Star
Tunku Azizah
visiting a patient
at the Cheras
Rehabilitation
Hospital, Kuala
Lumpur, in
August 2019.
The Queen admiring the tenun work done by inmates at Penor Prison, Kuantan, — The Star
in July 2019. — NIK NAIZI HUSIN/The Star
12 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
History of the Pahang Sultanate
The Sultan Abu Bakar Museum in Pekan, Pahang, which houses a large collection of ancient Chinese
glassware and ceramics previously used by former sultans of Pahang. — NIK NAIZI HUSIN/The Star
MALAYSIA practises an elective modern era was Wan Ahmad, The late Paduka Ayahanda
monarchy system, which means who emerged victorious in a civil Sultan Ahmad Shah ruled from
the Conference of Rulers will select war with his brother and was then onwards until 2019.
the head of state from among the subsequently proclaimed as Sultan Sultan Ahmad Shah was the first
nine Malay rulers. Ahmad Al-Mu’adzam Shah. Pahang Ruler to take on the role of
The reigning Yang di-Pertuan Sultan Ahmad’s reign ended Yang di-Pertuan Agong from 1979
Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah upon his death in 1914 and he to 1984.
Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah was succeeded by his son Sultan In early 2019, the Pahang royal
Shah comes from the Pahang Mahmud. council conducted Sultan Ahmad
Sultanate, whose history dates Sultan Mahmud ruled for three Shah’s abdication due to his ailing
back centuries. years before his own passing, health.
The current ruling house of whereupon another of Sultan His heir was then proclaimed
the sultanate, however, is fairly Ahmad’s sons then ruled as Sultan Sultan of Pahang on Jan 15 of that
recent as this particular ascendan- Abdullah Al-Mu’tassim Billah from year, taking on the regnal name of
cy came into being in 1882, when 1917 to 1932. Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin
the Raja Bendahara family consoli- Sultan Abdullah’s son then Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
dated its hegemony over Pahang succeeded him as Sultan Abu On Jan 24, 2019, Al-Sultan
The fifth Pahang Ruler, the late Sultan Ahmad Shah, and his son Sultan territory. Bakar Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mu’adzam Abdullah was elected the 16th
Abdullah. — Photo courtesy of the Raja Permaisuri Agong The first Sultan of Pahang in this Shah and ruled until 1974. Yang di-Pertuan Agong.14 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
A King with great wisdom and foresight
THE institution of the Yang di- “Aside from that, the three a situation that needed to be
Pertuan Agong, which was formed events attracted high public atten- addressed by interpreting the pro-
as a constitutional monarchy in tion as it was the first time they visions of the Constitution regard-
1957, is intended to be used as a had happened at the federal level. ing his powers in determining the
symbol of sovereignty for the “The Yang di-Pertuan Agong new head of the government or
Malay Federation as an independ- had also acted to set a precedent appointing the prime minister.
ent state. of the relevant provisions in the “The general public and the
Constitutional expert Assoc Prof Constitution,” she said. international audiences were
Dr Shamrahayu Abdul Aziz said According to her, during the watching the development of the
the institution of the Yang di-Pertu- controversy involving the Rome situation with full interest.
an Agong also serves as the highest Statute, Sultan Abdullah had “The King’s wisdom in managing
pinnacle of the country’s adminis- initiated a meeting with his fellow the democratic conflict had ended
tration at the federal level. Rulers to discuss its impact on the the episode peacefully.
“Through the provisions of the royal institution and the position “Although there were opposing
Federal Constitution, the Yang of the Constitution. voices, in the end, the situation
di-Pertuan Agong is the nation’s The government later withdrew became less tense,” she said.
Supreme Head of Federation and the issue did not prolong, she On the declaration of Emergency
(Article 32 of the constitution). said. to check the spread of Covid-19,
“As the head of state, the Prof Shamrahayu added that the Prof Shamrahayu said Sultan
Constitution stipulates that the announcement by the then prime Abdullah had initially rejected the
executive authority of the minister had sparked public dis- suggestion by the government.
Federation shall be vested in course involving the role of the She said although there seemed
him as per Article 39 of the Sultan Abdullah having an audience with Prime Minister Tan Sri King in the process of ratifying to be a bit of tension between the
Constitution,” she told The Star Muhyiddin Yassin in Istana Negara in October 2020. — Photo courtesy international agreements. two parties early on, the situation
in an interview. of Istana Negara “The episode had shown the de-escalated quickly.
On Jan 24, 2019, the Conference King’s wisdom and great foresight “This once again proved a sign
of Rulers during its 251st meeting incumbent Institution of the Malay Secondly, there was the change in realising the provisions of the of the King’s wisdom and resilience
elected Al-Sultan Abdullah Rulers chair at Universiti Teknologi of government which was trig- Constitution. in handling differences with the
Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Mara. gered following the decision by “The situation demonstrated his government leadership.
Shah as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan For the purpose of this article, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to wisdom and high intelligence in “The wisdom of the King had con-
Agong. Assoc Prof Shamrahayu cited three hand in his resignation. The King realising the provision of the tributed to the social and political
Sultan Abdullah took his oath to major events that featured and later had to appoint a new prime Constitution and his firmness on stability of the country,” she said.
mark the start of his reign at the reflected Sultan Abdullah’s type of minister. important matters involving the Prof Shamrahayu said the
Istana Negara on Jan 31, 2019, and reign based on the provisions in Thirdly, there was the position of the royal institution aspects of Sultan Abdullah’s
throughout the two years of his the Constitution. declaration of Emergency due and monarchy in this country. wisdom in managing the relations
reign, there have been many Firstly, there was the controversy to the Covid-19 pandemic. “He placed the sovereignty of between the royal institution and
challenges. involving the ratification of the The declaration was approved the royal institution at the fore- the political leaders in interpreting
“Among them was the political Rome Statute under the Pakatan by the King following the start of front in handling differences in the Constitution while facing
uncertainty that led to a change of Harapan government. the pandemic although initially, the approach adopted by the political challenges and public
government in the early part of last Initially, the government had His Majesty had rejected the government,” she added. health threats must be given due
year. wanted to ratify the statute but proposal by the government. Prof Shamrahayu said the King attention.
“Right after that, there was a later decided to withdraw Prof Shamrahayu said she want- also managed to bring about “Adapting the provisions of the
huge threat to public health following the decision made by the ed to highlight the three major stability when the country was Constitution with the real situation
which led to the declaration of Conference of Rulers, which was events as they involved the inter- facing political uncertainty due to is not an easy task, especially in
Emergency,” said Assoc Prof expressed by the Yang di-Pertuan pretation of the Constitution based conflict among certain parties. such a tense political situation,”
Shamrahayu, who is also the Agong to the then prime minister. on the actual current situation. She said Sultan Abdullah faced she said.
Enduring legacy of the Malay Sultanates
THE existence of the Malay
Sultanates in the country is
historically linked to the Melaka
Sultanate.
According to Istana Negara’s
official website, the Melaka According to the Federal
Sultanate played a significant role Constitution, as the nation’s head
in establishing the current palace of state, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong
traditions which were inherited by plays a role in the three branches
subsequent sultanates. of government, namely executive,
Prior to the establishment of the legislative and judiciary.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong post, from Article 39 of the Constitution
the nine existing sultanates, only stipulates that the executive
the Perak Sultanate had a direct authority of the Federation shall
link to the Melaka Sultanate as it be vested in the Yang di-Pertuan
was established from the Melaka Agong and exercisable by the King
Sultanate before it fell to the himself or the Cabinet or any
Portuguese in 1511. minister or any other person
The Kedah Sultanate, which authorised by Parliament.
once enjoyed the protection of the Dewan Negara president Tan
Melaka Sultanate, possesses royal Sri Rais Yatim was quoted by
regalia including nobat instruments Bernama as saying that in
presented by the Melaka Sultanate. carrying out his duties as
The Selangor Sultanate, although stipulated in the Constitution,
founded by the Bugis in the 18th Sultan Abdullah’s leadership
century, was given recognition by qualities would come to the fore
the Perak Sultanate. in cementing the institution of the
Other sultanates such as Johor, Yang di-Pertuan Agong and
Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu constitutional monarchy.
emerged after the lineage of the Pointing to the fact that the
Melaka Sultanate died out. term of Yang di-Pertuan Agong
These sultanates filled the void is mentioned more than 450 times
left by the Melaka Sultanate after The Melaka Sultanate played a significant role in establishing the current palace traditions which were in the Constitution, he said this
it fell to the Portuguese and inherited by subsequent sultanates. — A. MALEX YAHAYA/The Star alone reflected the crucial role
continued the legacy of the Melaka played by the institution in the
Sultanate. of Malaya. Based on the seniority of the as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. administration of the nation, as
The same holds true for Negri The proposal for the Yang di- longest-reigning period, Sultan of The third-longest reigning Ruler well as in ensuring the well-being
Sembilan whose rulers had Pertuan Agong post was made Johor Major-General Sultan was Tuanku Abdul Rahman ibni of the people.
originated from Sumatra. following the objection of the Ibrahim Sultan Abu Bakar, who Almarhum Tuanku Muhammad The election of Sultan Abdullah
Thereafter, the British establishment of the Malayan was appointed as Sultan in 1895, from Negri Sembilan, who ascend- as Yang di-Pertuan Agong has
intervened in the Malay states, Union, which was seen as an was the longest-reigning Sultan ed the throne in 1933 and was later created history in the system of
starting with the Pangkor Treaty in attempt by certain quarters to but he rejected the appointment appointed Yang di-Pertuan Agong constitutional monarchy and
1874 and ending with the British abolish the Malay royal institution. due to his old age. of the Federation of Malaya. parliamentary democracy
agreement with Johor in 1914. In August 1957, after choosing The second in line was Sultan The present King, Al-Sultan practised by this country.
The post of the Yang di-Pertuan the Yang di-Pertuan Agong title Sir Abu Bakar Riayatuddin Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa This is because the decision
Agong, also known as the Supreme instead of the Yang di-Pertuan Al-Muadzam Shah Almarhum Billah Shah was officially installed pertaining to the election of
Head or the King, was established Besar, which was proposed earlier, Sultan Abdullah Al-Mutassim Billah as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong the Pahang Ruler was made
in 1957 following a proposal by the the Conference of Rulers convened Shah of Pahang, who ruled in 1932 in a majestic ceremony steeped in barely a week after he was
Reid Commission which drafted to elect the first sultan to ascend but failed to get sufficient votes royal customs and traditions at proclaimed Sultan of Pahang
the Constitution of the Federation the throne. from fellow Rulers to be appointed Istana Negara on Jan 31, 2019. on Jan 15.18 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 Royal residence with fascinating features The entrance to Istana Negara, which leads to a well-manicured and landscaped garden. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/ The Star THE Istana Negara or the National lobby, they will find themselves Palace has served as the official under a dome that is 40m above residence of the Yang di-Pertuan ground – as high as a 10-storey Agong and the Raja Permaisuri building – and fitted with a Agong, as well as the centrepiece of magnificent chandelier specially the country’s constitutional monar- made in Kuala Selangor. chy system, the symbol of the posi- The massive dome is surrounded tion of Islam as the religion of state by large round pillars with eight and other aspects that define the paintings depicting the country’s nation’s identity. history from the Malacca Sultanate Originally, Istana Negara was era to the present time. located on an 11.34ha compound Istana Negara also has suites in Jalan Istana, Bukit Petaling, and halls built for specific uses and facing the Klang River. purposes. Now situated in Jalan Tuanku The Balairong Seri, or the main Abdul Halim (formerly Jalan Duta), throne room, is used for official it spreads across a total of 97.65ha functions, including the ceremonial of land. occasions of taking the royal Istana Negara started operations pledge, installation ceremony of a in its new location on Nov 11, 2011, new elected King and the appoint- during Tuanku Mizan Zainal ment of a new prime minister and Abidin’s tenure as the nation’s federal government. 13th King. Other formal occasions held here Although it has many uses, include investiture ceremonies and including for official events and the taking of oaths by government receptions held by the King, it ministers and state governors. This serves mainly as a symbol of the is also where the presentation and sovereignty of the Malay Rulers. acceptance of foreign diplomatic Consisting of three main compo- appointments are held. It also nents – formal, royal and adminis- sometimes serves as a banquet tration – the palace also houses hall. other facilities such as a surau The iconic royal throne room is that can accommodate up to 1,000 finely decorated with Malay tradi- worshippers, a security office, tional carvings and calligraphy of Istana Negara spreads across a total of 97.65ha of land. — ART CHEN/The Star elevated roads, a visitors square, Quranic verses made by renowned underground parking, a multi-pur- woodcarving masters from and the Queen as well as fellow pose hall, a medical treatment Kelantan and Terengganu. Malay Rulers and Her Royal room, a helicopter pad, stables The royal section of the palace is Highnesses, and the Yang Di and sports facilities including a specially designed for the use of Dipertua Negeri, head of states swimming pool. the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the and governments. Distinctively standing out with Raja Permaisuri Agong and other The main entrance also sees the two large gold domes in Kuala members of the royal family. deployment of Royal Guards from Lumpur, the palace has a total of Although it is often seen as an the First Battalion of the Malay 22 domes which are designed to administrative area, it is also a Regiment. resemble an arrangement of sirih home to the royal family. The second entrance, situated (betel nut) leaves. The national palace also consists in Jalan Changkat Semantan, is Each suite and royal hall is of bedrooms, the King’s office, reserved for royal guests and those distinctively decorated with dining and living rooms, as well as who are specially invited to events traditional Malay-themed ornate rooms for royal guests. at the palace. carvings, drawings and designs The well-manicured and land- The third entrance, also known with Islamic motifs. scaped garden is an equally promi- as Pintu 3, is located in Jalan Sri Islamic elements are also evident nent feature of the royal palace. Hartamas, Mont Kiara. It is meant in the three-dimensional geometry, Istana Negara has three main for the use of civilians who have carvings of Quranic verses and entrances, with the main entrance business regarding the King lamps used throughout the via the multi-storeyed road and Queen, as well as the adminis- palace, especially in the surau. from Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim trative staff and guests invited to Mounted palace guards making their way to Istana Negara’s entrance in As visitors walk into the main reserved for the use of the King Istana Negara. April this year. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
20 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
How the Agong is appointed
THE Conference of Rulers is a
unique institution that chooses
the Yang di-Pertuan Agong from “The Conference of
among its ranks of nine Malay
Rulers.
Rulers is a unique
Although it was officially estab- institution that
lished in 1948, the Conference had
a predecessor in the durbar, where chooses the Yang
the Rulers and the British adminis-
trators would meet during the days
di-Pertuan Agong
of the Federated Malay States. from among its
Following the country’s indepen-
dence, the Conference of Rulers
ranks of nine Malay
was established in accordance with Rulers.”
Article 38 of the Federal Constitu-
tion which, among others, stipulat-
ed that it would elect Yang di-Per- mitted to stand as candidates and
tuan Agong as the head of state. elect the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
It would also elect the Deputy The appointment of the Yang
Yang di-Pertuan Agong. di-Pertuan Agong has generally
Its other functions are to agree followed the tradition of rotation
or disagree to the extension of any based on the first cycle of nine
religious acts; observances or Rulers to have taken on the mantle.
ceremonies to the Federation as a But the year 2019 saw an
whole; consent or withhold consent unprecedented event that could
to any law and making or giving have broken that tradition when
advice on any appointment Sultan Muhammad V resigned as
which requires the consent of the the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong
Conference under the Constitution; midway through his five-year term.
appoint members of the Special The next in line was the then
Court; grant pardons, reprieves Sultan of Pahang Almarhum
and respites or remitting, suspend- Paduka Ayahanda Sultan Ahmad
ing or commuting sentences. Shah but since he was ill at that
It may also deliberate on matters time, it would not be suitable for
of national policy and any other the Conference of Rulers to appoint
matter it deems fit. Its members him as the next Yang di-Pertuan
comprise the hereditary monarchs Agong.
of the states of Malaysia and the This matter was averted when
Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Melaka, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin
Penang, Sabah and Sarawak. Al-Mustafa Billah Shah acceded the
Only the Rulers of Negri throne of Pahang with the abdica-
Sembilan, Selangor, Perlis, tion of Sultan Ahmad Shah, thus
Terengganu, Kedah, Kelantan, making him eligible to become the Sultan Abdullah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Maimunah Iskandariah at the opening
Pahang, Johor and Perak are per- Yang di-Pertuan Agong. ceremony of the second session of the 14th Parliament in March 2019. — AZHAR MAHFOF/THe Star22 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
Snap and Chat: Sultan Abdullah taking a photo with guests after a banquet at the Top Enjoy!: Sultan Abdullah distributing meals to journalists stationed outside the Istana
Komtar Banquet Ballroom at The Top, Komtar in George Town, during a visit in December Negara gates as they waited for updates following the political impasse in February 2020.
2019. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
Spirit of kindness
WHEN Al-Sultan Abdullah
Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah
Shah was sworn in as the 16th
Yang di-Pertuan Agong in January
2019, he immediately won the
Choice fruits:
hearts of Malaysians with his Sultan Abdullah
down-to-earth and compassionate selecting fruits from
demeanour. a roadside stall in
People were often amazed at Kampung Padang,
Sultan Abdullah’s knack for setting Kuantan, on his way
aside protocol to be with them in to a ceremony to
both good and bad times. proclaim city status
There were many occasions on the Pahang
where Tuanku was spotted assist- capital in February
ing accident victims he encoun- this year. — Photo
tered on his journeys or stopping taken from Istana
by a roadside fruit stall to buy Negara social media
fruits. Tuanku charmed the people
even more when he was seen Sultan Abdullah also congratu- During this time, Tuanku was
queuing up to buy a fast-food meal lated students Cheryl Chow Shu accompanied by Raja Permaisuri
with his entourage. Wei for earning the “Top In The Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah
Sultan Abdullah showed his World” Award for Chemistry in the Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah
thoughtfulness further by issuing International General Certificate of and they helped to prepare meals
congratulatory messages to Secondary Education and Pavit for those housed at evacuation
Malaysians through the Istana Coran, who was crowned champi- centres.
Negara social media channels to on of the English Speaking Union During the political impasse
commend them on their every International Public Speaking early last year, the King and
achievement. Competition. Queen once again showed their
Last month, Sultan Abdullah Tuanku is also not a stranger to compassion by treating members
congratulated dive queen bringing comfort to people hit by of the press to a meal after they
Pandelela Rinong on winning the hardships and disasters. spent long hours waiting for
gold medal for the 10m platform When floods struck several updates outside the Istana Negara
individual event at the FINA Diving villages in Pahang earlier this gates.
World Cup in Tokyo, and he did the year, Tuanku donned his military The King’s attentiveness to his Royal compassion: Sultan Abdullah planting a kiss on a child as he
same when shuttler Lee Zii Jia won fatigues and waded through people’s needs has earned him hands out packs of food to the homeless during a visit to Masjid Jamek
the All England Badminton floodwaters to visit and give aid to praises and a special place in Kuala Lumpur in July 2019. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
Championship title in March. the victims. their hearts.
Raya joy: Sultan Abdullah made time to accompany the underprivileged in Kuantan to Nice to meet you: Sultan Abdullah meeting with locals after performing Friday prayers
shop for Hari Raya essentials as they made preparations for the celebration in May 2019. following the launch of Masjid Al-Bukhary Pulau Pinang in Bandar Sri Pinang in December
— NIK NAIZI HUSIN/The Star 2019. — Bernama26 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
Helping out: Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah serving food to flood
victims at a flood relief centre in Pekan, Pahang, in January this year.
— Photo taken from Istana Negara’s Facebook page
Hand in hand: Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah holding hands as they cross the Canopy Walk during a
visit to Bukit Bendera, Penang, in December 2019. — Bernama
The rakyat’s
pillars of strength
A FIGURE that is always by maintaining a level of decorum. together and are prepared to
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Once, during a banquet in extend a helping hand to those in Generous gesture: Sultan Abdullah giving Raya packets to a boy
Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Penang in 2019, the King jokingly need. during a Compassion and Grace Programme at Masjid Kampung Kuala
Billah Shah’s side is Raja told guests he had to cut his speech One of the causes close to Penor in Kuantan in April this year. The King spent time with and gave
Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah short because the Queen wanted their hearts is the Tunku Azizah donations to 52 dependants, including the elderly and those with
Azizah Aminah Maimunah to bring him out for durian after Fertility Foundation, which aids
special needs. — Photo taken from Istana Negara’s Facebook page
Iskandariah. They are each the event. couples who cannot afford
other’s strongest supporter. During a dinner in London fertility treatments to make their
They often leave the people that same year, the Queen had no dreams of starting a family come
amused by their candidness as qualms about adjusting the King’s true.
they are not afraid to show their table microphone as he delivered Both the King and Queen are
fondness for each other. his speech, in which he also also advocates for education and
Oftentimes, they will inject a managed to insert a few light have encouraged the people to
dose of fun and warmth at jokes. constantly learn new skills as they
the events they attend, putting The King and Queen are always preserve and treasure their own
their guests at ease while still ready to engage with the public local knowledge and cultures.
Team effort: Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah stirring bubur lambuk
during a programme organised by the Istana Negara Sports and
Welfare Club in May this year. — Bernama
Happy families: Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah taking pictures
Rapt attention: Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah visiting the Fulbright English teaching assistants (ETA) with children of couples that benefited from the Tunku Azizah Fertility
booth in Kuantan in October 2019. The Queen had earlier officiated the ETA state-level showcase. — NIK NAIZI Foundation at the foundation’s family day in October 2019. — RAJA
HUSIN/ The Star FAISAL HISHAN/The Star30 Daulat Tuanku THE STAR, MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021
Humble and sporting Ruler
DATUK Mohd Rashid Hasnon’s
first close encounter with Yang
di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan
Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa
Billah Shah was when he was
Penang deputy chief minister.
He said Sultan Abdullah (who
was then Tengku Mahkota of
Pahang) had just been appointed
as president of the Football
Association of Malaysia (FAM) in
May 2014.
“As the head of a prestigious
sports association, His Majesty
handled his responsibilities firmly
when facing criticism from various
quarters, especially from sports
fans and critics from all over the
country.
“I never saw Sultan Abdullah
get angry or feel offended by any
remarks. Instead, he took the
comments in his stride and viewed
them as constructive criticism
for the future of the country’s
football,” he said in an interview
with The Star.
Mohd Rashid added that every
time he and His Majesty met
during a friendly football match
involving Penang, Pahang or
Selangor, Sultan Abdullah would
approach the spectators and
amiably chatted with them. Sultan Abdullah giving the Jalur Gemilang to ex-national football coach Datuk K. Rajagopal before a match in October
“That really grabbed my atten- 2011. (Inset) Mohd Rashid often saw His Majesty chatting with spectators at matches. — M. AZHAR ARIF/The Star
tion. Tuanku was never arrogant
and treated everybody with full Parliament get to meet him when follows the Federal Constitution in them during meals or while distancing, Sultan Abdullah had
respect although His Majesty is a the Parliament convenes during all of his speeches to ensure that playing sports. consented for the surau located
highly respected figure. the start of each meeting,” he it becomes a guide and basis for “Whenever I meet Tuanku, his within the Istana Negara grounds
“His Majesty is very well added. Malaysia. family will always be by his side to be opened to the public for
acquainted with football and Mohd Rashid, who is Batu Pahat Recalling last year’s leadership and Tuanku will introduce them to Friday prayers.
adopted some of the concepts of MP and the Dewan Rakyat’s Deputy crisis, when each lawmaker was all of us,” he added. “As the head of state that
the game during his term as FAM Speaker, added that the King summoned to meet His Majesty “Sultan Abdullah is a leader who upholds Islam, His Majesty’s life is
president. would give his advice and views to one by one, Mohd Rashid said is moderate, including as the head very close to religion,” Mohd
“Tuanku is an excellent planner all MPs as the head of the country. Sultan Abdullah was calm and of Islam in Malaysia. Rashid said, adding that Sultan
who can strategise amazingly and “The King’s speeches are very listened to their opinions. “Everything is conducted Abdullah was also a humble and
communicate well with all the much in line with the Standing On His Majesty’s personal life, perfectly according to the tenets of down-to-earth person.
players in order to achieve victory. Order and rules of the august Mohd Rashid said the King was Islam and implemented in modera- “Tuanku will sometimes stop by
“From my personal point of House, showing his deep under- known to be very close with his tion,” Mohd Rashid said. the roadside and talk to the rakyat.
view, Sultan Abdullah is a warm standing in the administration family members, especially his He added that prior to the “He has even helped small busi-
person with a friendly smile. and management of Parliament,” wife and children. Covid-19 pandemic, which saw nesses by buying items directly
“Tuanku is also an interesting he said. “Tuanku spends time with his the enforcement of movement from the rakyat, which they really
character and Members of He also noted that His Majesty children and usually interacts with restrictions including physical appreciate,” he said.
Wishes for a beloved King
YANG di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah help those in need.
Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah is a wise “This practice has continued during his
and compassionate Ruler who is the symbol current reign as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,”
of unity of all Malaysians regardless of their he said.
background. Aznil, popularly known as Pak Nil, added
Malaysians believe that the King repre- that the rakyat was lucky to be able to see
sents harmony among the multiracial the King and Queen exercising their royal
and religious communities living in the duties through photos and videos shared on
country. social media.
Despite the postponement of events and “We rarely see any form of strict protocol
programmes in conjunction with the King’s as the King blends in naturally with his
official birthday this year, Malaysians of all subjects.
backgrounds continue to extend their good “Our King clearly shows that he is one
wishes. with the rakyat and never creates any
This is the second time that all events in barriers between him and us,” he said.
conjunction with the King’s official birthday Aznil added that the rest of the royal
have been postponed to another date due to family, including Pahang Regent Tengku
the Covid-19 pandemic. Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, also shared
Low: ‘I hope His Majesty’s reign will be Aznil: ‘His Majesty is the best person to
Lawyer Datuk Andy Low Hann Yong said the same traits, values and humbleness that peaceful and that he will live a long and lead the country during this challenging
the King was a symbol of peace and a sage warmed the hearts of the rakyat. healthy life.’ and uncertain time.’
Ruler who has the rakyat’s best interests at “They are often seen with minimal police
heart at all times. presence or protocols, and the people really Sabahan Jim Matthew, 40, said Sultan country without fail, even when some people
“My hope is that His Majesty’s reign will appreciate this about them,” he said. Abdullah was always down-to-earth and have raised controversial views.
be peaceful and that he will live a long and He also noted that Sultan Abdullah was caring towards the people. “His Majesty has also proven that he is
healthy life,” he said. helming the country during a particularly “His Majesty always seems to be up to level-headed and makes sound decisions for
Television host and popular personality challenging period. date on current issues and the welfare of his the well-being of the rakyat.
Datuk Aznil Nawawi said the King was a “His Majesty is playing a big role in people. “When talk of an Emergency was first
humble and down-to-earth person, and that managing the Covid-19 pandemic and “I remember the many times the King raised amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the King
there was no protocol barrier between him the rakyat is always behind him. stopped to help accident victims he encoun- did not simply accept the government’s pro-
and the people. “I believe Allah put him in the right tered on his journeys, as well as the time posal; rather, the King listened to the rakyat’s
“Even when he was still the Crown Prince place at the right time to steer the country His Majesty and the Queen went down to sentiments and asked for more solid reasons
of Pahang, he followed in the footsteps of his forward,” said Aznil, who expressed his con- the ground to check on the welfare of flood to justify an Emergency,” she said.
father, who had no qualms about going fidence that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong victims in Pahang,” he recalled. Priyanka noted that the King had also
down to the ground to meet the people. would use his wisdom to make the right University student S. Priyanka, 23, said the given much concern to every decision made
“There are many pictures of His Majesty decisions for the people. King had shown exceptional discretion and by the government to address the impact of
going on a boat ride or a four-wheel drive “I wish Tuanku a long and healthy life, consideration for all races in Malaysia. Covid-19, especially on financial and eco-
with Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah and I hope Malaysia will prosper under “The King and Queen have acknowledged nomic matters such as unemployment and
Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah to his reign,” he said. every major cultural celebration in the the most affected sectors of the economy.You can also read
