Al-Sultan Abdullah’s Reign: A Pivotal Chapter in Malaysia’s History, says PMX

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim commends Al-Sultan Abdullah’s strategic leadership over the past five years, steering the nation through challenging times.

Subscribe to our FREE Newsletter, or Telegram and WhatsApp channels for the latest stories and updates.

Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah concludes his term as Yang di-Pertuan Agong (YDPA) today (30 January), marking the end of his five-year reign.

His service alongside Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah has resonated with the Malaysian people.

Anwar Ibrahim Characterises YDPA’s Reign as a Pivotal Chapter

Last night (29 January), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, via a Facebook post, remarked on the five-year rule of YDPA as a pivotal chapter, facing numerous challenges with resilience.

He attributes the nation’s navigation through tough times to Al-Sultan Abdullah’s benevolence.

“Beginning with prolonged political instability, the spread and impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and shifting economic downturns, the country has been placed in uncertainty and crisis.

“However, Al-Sultan Abdullah has fulfilled the responsibilities of leadership perfectly, embodying qualities with a people-centric approach which consistently aligns with the rakyat to ensure that peace and well-being remain priorities in any circumstances,” Anwar said during his address at the State Banquet held in a hotel here in conjunction with the completion of the reign of the 16th YDPA.

Anwar emphasized that Al-Sultan Abdullah’s reign ushered in a new chapter in the country’s history, navigating through three changes in prime ministers, demanding efficient leadership and extraordinary sacrifices; to which the King described as “wasteful”.

With the Constitutional Monarchy system and its role in the Westminster-style democratic system, the monarchy’s importance became evident, particularly in resolving prolonged political challenges and crises.

“We witnessed His Majesty’s wisdom during the political turmoil with three changes for the Prime Minister’s post until the general election held at the end of November 2022, which ultimately showed that no political party obtained a sufficient majority to form the government”, Anwar stated.

Expressing appreciation for Al-Sultan Abdullah’s wisdom in establishing a Unity Government, Anwar highlighted how it fostered consensus and political stability.

“His Majesty, as witnessed at that time (political turmoil), finally decreed the establishment of a stable and strong government that encompasses all races, all states, and territories in the country as a way to break the political deadlock.

“As they say, the rest is history, and this moment signifies how the Constitutional Monarchy system has become a fitting precedence in addressing political challenges,” he said.

Anwar also acknowledged Al-Sultan Abdullah’s focus on the country’s economic situation, which invigorated the commitment to implementing economic structural reforms, leading to Malaysia’s 29th position in government efficiency in the World Competitiveness Ranking 2023 report.

Anwar Ibrahim’s Determination to Serve the Country

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister pledges the government’s unwavering commitment to continued efforts and wholehearted service for the people and the nation.

Through trust and concern for the people, along with other cabinet members, he assures proper governance for the nation’s betterment.

Al-Sultan Abdullah’s Final Message to the People

“I may no longer be the king of Malaysia, but I hope I’ll remain the king of your hearts.”

During the banquet, Al-Sultan Abdullah conveyed his final words and wishes to the people, emphasising the importance of unity and wholehearted community living.

“I hope that the chaos the people are suffering as a result of the actions of some politicians is brought to an end. They should instead be fostering harmony among the people,” he said.

Al-Sultan Abdullah said he would be leaving Istana Negara with a heavy heart.

“I have done my best for the country throughout these five years as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. However, I am sad to leave Istana Negara if the people remain divided.”

In the same video clip, he was seen shedding tears while delivering his final words to the people.

This morning, Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah departed for their home state of Pahang.

Profile of Al-Sultan Abdullah

Al-Sultan Abdullah served as the 16th YDPA of Malaysia for five years from 2019 to 2024, succeeding Sultan Muhammad V (Kelantan) who abdicated. He took the oath in a splendid ceremony on 31 January 2019 at Istana Negara, Jalan Duta.

Before this, he held the position of Tengku Mahkota Pahang for almost 44 years before assuming the role of Pahang Sultan in 2019. He had also acted as the Regent of Pahang in 2016.

Al-Sultan Abdullah was also exposed to the military field early on, being appointed as a Second Lieutenant at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, receiving accreditation from Queen Elizabeth II in 1980.

He was synonymous with politeness in interacting with the local residents. Indeed, the commendable and humble demeanor of Al-Sultan Abdullah and Queen Tunku Azizah during their reign endeared them to the public.