JOHOR BARU: Johoreas from all walks of life and corners of the state paid their respects to the Sultan of Johor’s late mother, Enche’ Besar Hajah Khalsom, by attending the public session that was held from 8.15am till 10am today at the Grand Palacehall.
University student Zulaili Zulkiple came with her family members to extend their condolences for Sultan Ibrahim and his family’s loss.
“I came here with my father and my siblings to extend our last respects to Hajah Khalsom. This is my first visit to the palace as during the funeral ceremony of Tunku Jalil, I did not have the chance to personally come and pay my respects,” she said.
Government pensioner Rahidah Ismail, 70 said she left her home in Kluang as early as 6am just to make sure she could make it.
“I came with my son who drove all the way from our home in Kluang. We were allowed to enter the palace hall to offer our prayers just like when I came the last time during the funeral ceremony of Tunku Jalil,” she said.
She said her attendance was out of her love for Sultan Ibrahim who is known as the people’s Sultan.
Housewife Zaimah Saif, 60, took a bus ride from her house in Skudai.
Zaimah said she and several other friends waited for the bus at 6.30am.
“Fortunately we came on time and were allowed to enter. Sultan Ibrahim and the royal families are very much loved by the people of Johor. Their sadness has affected the people accros the state and and I pray the royal family is given strength during these trying times,” she said.
