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 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. —

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

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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, , 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, , 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, 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

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(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 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 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.

THE existence of the Malay Sultanates in the country is historically linked to the Melaka Enduring legacy of the Malay Sultanates 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 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 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, and 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 is a unique Rulers. 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- di-Pertuan Agong trators would meet during the days of the Federated Malay States. from among its Following the country’s indepen- ranks of nine Malay dence, the Conference of Rulers 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, , 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 Star

22 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 Choice fruits: 2019, he immediately won the 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.— Bernama

26 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 Star

30 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 Low: ‘I hope His Majesty’s reign will be Aznil: ‘His Majesty is the best person to the Covid-19 pandemic. Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, also shared 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.