Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar has been officially crowned as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia in a grand traditional ceremony at Istana Negara, Kuala Lumpur, on July 20. This inauguration marks the beginning of his five-year term as the King of Malaysia.
Under Malaysia's monarchy system, nine Malay ethnic rulers take turns becoming king every five years since independence from Britain in 1957. Of the 13 states, only nine have royal families with long histories from the ancient Malay kingdoms.
As one of Malaysia's wealthiest businessmen with an extensive business portfolio, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, the 65-year-old Sultan of Johor, now takes on the role of the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong. Known for his close relationship with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his outspoken stance on issues like corruption, he brings unique business experience and political views to the throne.
The inauguration was attended by more than 700 guests, including Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei and King Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain.
Sultan Ibrahim succeeds Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang (the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong), whose term ended on January 30. Sultan Abdullah led during a challenging period, including the COVID-19 lockdown and political instability.
Malaysia follows a constitutional monarchy system where the Yang di-Pertuan Agong serves as the head of state. Although the role is largely ceremonial, the king holds several significant powers. He plays a central role in the legislative process, including approving laws and appointing the cabinet.
Additionally, the king is the supreme commander of the armed forces and has the authority to declare a state of emergency. However, in practice, the day-to-day executive power is exercised by the democratically elected prime minister and cabinet.
Sultan Ibrahim was elected by the Malay Rulers at the 263rd Conference of Rulers Meeting in October 2023 and has taken the oath and signed the letter of appointment on January 31. He will reign for the next five years.
Sultan Ibrahim, a Malaysian billionaire, is known for his conspicuous wealth. He owns a fleet of private jets, a collection of luxury cars and motorcycles, and properties abroad. He is also the only one of the nine rulers to maintain a small private army, a condition agreed upon when his state joined modern Malaysia.
At the event, both Malaysians and foreign tourists eagerly witnessed Sultan Ibrahim's inauguration as the 17th King of Malaysia at Istana Negara today. The ceremony was rich in Malay tradition and customs. Some visitors even made special preparations to come to Malaysia to witness this historic moment that occurs only once every five years.
