Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah gracing the Parade of Thanks to mark the end of Tuanku’s reign as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan agong at the Army Square, Sungai Besi Camp, in January. — FAIHAN GHANI/The star
AFTER a distinguished five-year tenure as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has made a celebrated return to his beloved home state.
On Jan 30, Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah departed from Istana Negara and were warmly greeted by the people of Pahang upon their arrival.
The enthusiastic reception for Al-Sultan Abdullah’s return resonated deeply, underscoring the Ruler’s profound significance to the people of Pahang and the nation as a whole.
Al-Sultan Abdullah chatting with a young girl during a visit to Kampung Orang Asli Kuala Boh in Cameron Highlands, Pahang, in March last year. —Bernama
“The year 2024 is a very meaningful year as I return to the state of Pahang Darul Makmur, which I deeply love and cherish,” remarked Al-Sultan Abdullah in his royal address at the opening of the state assembly earlier this year.
Born on July 30, 1959, Al-Sultan Abdullah is the eldest son of Sultan Ahmad Shah and Tengku Ampuan Afzan.
Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah with their children (from left) Tengku Ahmad Ismail Muadzam Shah, Tengku Muhammad Iskandar Ri’ayatuddin Shah, Tengku Amir Nasser, Tengku Mahkota Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, Tengku Puteri Iman Afzan, Tengku Puteri Ilisha Ameera, Tengku Puteri Ilyana, Tengku Puteri Afzan Aminah Hafizatullah and Tengku Puteri Jihan Azizah ‘Athiyatullah. — Photo courtesy of Istana Negara
The Sultan’s formative years were shaped by dedication to service, laying the foundation for his future responsibilities as the Ruler of Pahang.
From an early age, His Royal Highness actively participated in public service alongside Tuanku’s father, engaging with the people during state visits and community engagements.
Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku azizah visiting the Malaysian High Commission in London, in 2021. — Photo taken from Istana Negara’s Facebook page
These experiences exposed Al-Sultan Abdullah to the diverse needs and aspirations of the people, fostering a strong connection and empathy towards the people.
It was during these interactions that Al-Sultan Abdullah developed a keen interest in public service and community that would later define Tuanku’s reign as Sultan of Pahang.
At the age of 20, the then Tengku Mahkota Pahang gained valuable experience and insight into governance and leadership when he was appointed as Regent while his father served as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Al-Sultan Abdullah taking a closer look at a Malayan tiger at the Lanchang Biodiversity Centre in July last year, while his son Tengku Hassanal captures the moment. — Photo taken from Istana Negara’s Facebook page
Al-Sultan Abdullah assumed the post of Regent again in December 2016, following Sultan Ahmad Shah’s withdrawal from public life, and undertook the responsibilities of a Ruler.
Al-Sultan Abdullah ascended to the throne of Pahang on Jan 15, 2019, succeeding Sultan Ahmad Shah who abdicated due to failing health.
The accession marked a significant chapter in the history of the Sultanate, heralding continuity and stability amidst the evolving landscape of Malaysian governance.
As Sultan of Pahang, His Royal Highness plays a pivotal role in advancing the welfare and development of the state.
Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah at the Parade of Thanks to mark the end of Tuanku’s reign as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the army square, Sungai Besi Camp, in January. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
The Ruler’s responsibilities extend beyond ceremonial duties to encompass active engagement in matters of governance, community development, and cultural preservation.
In Tuanku’s recent address at the state assembly, His Royal Highness commended the state government for its effective measures in successfully reducing the number of hardcore poor individuals in the state last year from 4,968 people in January to 1,946 people in December.
He also called for bureaucratic hurdles, whether at the state or federal government level, to be eliminated in order to enhance efforts in attracting investments into Pahang.
Al-Sultan Abdullah examining books displayed at Khutubkhanah DiRaja after receiving a briefing on the proposal to sign memorandums of agreement for the setting up of the Al-Sultan Abdullah Research Centre for Pahang History and Civilisation in March 2021.
In the royal address, Sultan Abdullah also expressed appreciation to Tengku Mahkota Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, who shouldered the responsibility as the Regent of Pahang for five years while His Royal Highness performed his duties as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Sultan Abdullah’s tenure as the ceremonial head of state further solidified Tuanku’s reputation as a unifying figure and a staunch advocate for national unity and prosperity, particularly when the nation went through several political crises.
During Tuanku’s tenure, Sultan Abdullah emphasised the importance of collaboration and dialogue among Malaysia’s diverse communities, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah listening to how a traditional Kadazandusun delicacy is made during their Kembara Kenali Borneo in September last year.
Looking ahead, Sultan Abdullah remains committed to advancing the interests of Pahang and its people, guided by a steadfast dedication to service and a vision of a brighter future for all.
The Ruler’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people, coupled with His Royal Highness’ visionary leadership, ensures that the Sultanate remains a pillar of strength and unity in Malaysia.
