KUALA KANGSAR: Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who served as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, will be etched in history for steering through unprecedented challenges during his tenure.
Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah said Al-Sultan Abdullah gracefully steered the ship of state through the transitions of four Prime Ministers and four different Cabinets while overseeing the appointment of three Prime Ministers.
"His Majesty's reign unfolded in the shadow of the global Covid-19 pandemic, which necessitated the imposition of stringent movement control orders.
"In the face of critical national issues, he displayed a remarkable commitment to a culture of high-level consultation. His Majesty extended invitations to His brother Rulers from the respective states, fostering a collective spirit of 'scaling the same mountain and sharing the same burden'.
"This approach was dedicated to nurturing understanding and forging consensus in the face of complex and weighty matters," he said.
Sultan Nazrin said this in his speech at the investiture ceremony in conjunction with his 67th birthday celebration at Istana Iskandariah here, today.
Sultan Nazrin said it was evident that His Majesty transcends the role of a symbolic unifier; who serves as a living bond, connecting the people, the nation, and the throne.
He added that this was vividly demonstrated through the unwavering dedication of Al-Sultan Abdullah and Her Majesty Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, during the successful execution of the 'Kembara Kenali Borneo' program.
"Their 11-day visit to Sabah and Sarawak from Sept 3 to Sept 13, 2023, drew affection and loyalty from individuals of diverse backgrounds who braved the rain and sun to display their love and loyalty, highlighting their roles as nurturing parents to every Malaysian.
"Their compassionate nature not only fostered a stronger connection between the people and the monarchy but also bolstered the relationship between Sabah, Sarawak, and the Federal Government. Simultaneously, it deepened public reverence for the royal institution.
"As Al-Sultan Abdullah concludes his term on January 30, 2024, on behalf of the throne, the government, and the people of Perak Darul Ridzuan, we extend our utmost appreciation to Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah for their wisdom, which has profoundly elevated the dignity and sovereignty of the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
"May they both continue to be graced with divine blessings and receive rewards in this world and the hereafter for their exemplary deeds," he said.
On the appointment of Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, Sultan Nazrin believed that his extensive experience and genuine concern for the people, Sultan Ibrahim is expected to inject fresh soul and energy into the throne of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
"His unwavering commitment to Malaysia's diverse and multi-religious population, his rejection of divisive practices, and his focus on promoting tolerance among different communities and religious freedom instil confidence that individuals from all backgrounds will be treated fairly and justly.
"May he be guided by divine wisdom as he carries forward the legacy of the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, serving as a steadfast guardian of democratic principles, a stronghold of national unity, and the heartbeat of our nation, and lead the people to the way of those on whom Thou has bestowed Thy grace, those whose (portion) is not wrath, and who go not astray," Sultan Nazrin said.
