Closing a chapter: Besides the seismic political shifts that punctuated His Majesty’s tenure as Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Abdullah is known for His Majesty’s people-oriented approach. Tunku Azizah is equally well-loved by the rakyat as Queen. (Right) Their Majesties are also widely adored for their candid displays of affection for one another. — BernamaBy RAHIMY RAHIMrahimyr@thestar.com.my
KUALA LUMPUR: I may not be the Yang di-Pertuan Agong after January but I hope to be the King of your hearts, declared Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
In an interview to mark the conclusion of his five-year reign, the King said he had given his best throughout his five years on the throne to build the country and unite the people.
“I would like to quote my Paduka Ayahanda (Almarhum Sultan Ahmad Shah) at the end of his reign: ‘It is not that I do not like Malaysia; I love Pahang more’. That was my Paduka Ayahanda’s line.
“But my line would be: ‘I may not be the King of Malaysia after January but if I can be, I hope to be the King of all of your hearts,” said Sultan Abdullah, whose father, the late Sultan Ahmad Shah, served as the seventh Yang di-Pertuan Agong from 1979 to 1984.
Sultan Abdullah’s role as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong ends today. Johor’s Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar will take over tomorrow for five years.
Tuanku also thanked all parties, including the media, for their support in all aspects.
“I apologise if there are any shortcomings, and I am grateful and thankful to all the people for their cooperation.
“Until now, I have not taken my salary,” added Tuanku, to the laughter of everyone in the room.
“After returning to Pahang, I will continue my role as the Sultan of Pahang. Maybe it will be a slightly different role. The Ruler of Pahang’s role is a bit different from the King’s role,” said Sultan Abdullah.
Asked what Tuanku will do upon returning to Pahang, Sultan Abdullah said he already has a list.
“I was only Sultan of Pahang for 15 days, so the people of Pahang have been waiting for me.
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“I can’t wait to visit every district; so many things need to be fixed and developed, and there are many poor people in Pahang.”
When asked if there are any plans to release a memoir, His Majesty said there are no plans to do so at the moment.
“Many of my friends and some professionals suggested that I release a memoir.
“If it’s possible, it will not be immediately. Perhaps a bit later, if deemed appropriate.
“Ideally, it shouldn’t come from me; I can’t write about myself. Somebody has to write for me.
“For me, to write a memoir and tell the world what I feel, I think it is not fair. I will keep it to myself for the moment,” said Tuanku.
Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah said both of Their Majesties look forward to visiting every district in Pahang.
“We will go back to our home state, balik kampung. I will miss everybody in Istana Negara. This has been my family for the last five years.
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“Thanks to Allah for the opportunity to lead the country for five years. Sorry if there are any shortcomings,” added Tunku Azizah.
Sultan Abdullah was sworn in as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on Jan 31, 2019, in an event steeped in tradition under a unique monarchy system and witnessed by the other Malay Rulers, their representatives, Yang di-Pertuas Negeri, and the Cabinet, among others.
His Majesty was elected by the Malay Rulers at the 251st (Special) Meeting of the Conference of Rulers at Istana Negara on Jan 24, 2019, following the resignation of the Sultan of Kelantan, Sultan Muhammad V, as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong on Jan 6, 2019.
