Malaysian sultans choose new king in unique rotational monarchy

The nation’s next king has been revealed as Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, hailing from the southern state of Johor. The decision was made during a significant session of the Conference of Rulers, featuring the country’s nine sultans, held on Friday.

The keeper of the Royal Seal made the official announcement during the 263rd (Special) Meeting at the National Palace, confirming that “His Royal Highness Sultan Ibrahim, Sultan of Johor Darul Ta’zim,” has been designated as “His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVII” for a five-year term, beginning on January 31, 2024.

While the title “Yang di-Pertuan Agong” translates to “King of Kings,” it is essential to recognize that the role of the king in Malaysia is primarily a constitutional one. However, in the wake of the historic 2018 elections and the subsequent revolving door of ruling coalitions, the monarchy has taken on a more active political role. King Al-Sultan Abdullah exercised the monarch’s discretionary powers to appoint the last three prime ministers, including the situation after the 2022 election when no single party secured a parliamentary majority.

Sultan Ibrahim, a 64-year-old with a passion for fast cars and motorbikes and extensive business interests, is renowned for his annual road trips around Johor, where he personally engages with the people of the state. Alongside his dedication to royal duties, he possesses a pilot’s license for jets and helicopters and is known for excelling in various extreme sports. Notably, his father served as the country’s eighth king, reigning from 1984 to 1989.

The Johor royal family, tracing its lineage back to the early 16th century, even maintains its private army, exemplifying the deep-rooted tradition of royalty in the nation. For many Malaysians, especially in rural areas, royalty remains a potent symbol of identity. The sultans are regarded as the protectors of Islam within their respective states, while the king takes on this role in regions without hereditary monarchs. It is important to note that Malaysia’s majority Malay population predominantly adheres to the Islamic faith.

The head of state resides in a purpose-built palace featuring 22 striking yellow domes in Kuala Lumpur’s inner western suburbs. This figure also serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and holds the authority to grant pardons to convicts. The selection of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar as Malaysia’s 17th king marks another chapter in the nation’s distinctive rotational monarchy tradition, emphasizing its rich cultural heritage and royal legacy.