His Majesty a leader even when young

Seman showing a photo of Sultan Muhammad V when he was in primary school. — Bernama

WHILE many parents would confront teachers who caned their children, the mother of Sultan Muhammad V presented a cane to the school headmaster when her son started schooling there back in 1976.

Tengku Anis Tengku Abdul Hamid gave the headmaster the “licence” to cane her firstborn if he did not follow orders.

Recalling the episode, retired teacher Seman @ Kamarulzaman Hassan said Tengku Anis brought the cane on the first day of school at SK Sultan Ismail 1.

Although the young Prince was destined to be a Ruler, his mother apparently chose not to spare the rod and spoil the child. However, Seman described the young Prince to be patient and non-confrontational while in school.

“Even when he was upset with schoolmates, he preferred to remain silent,” said the 72-year-old retiree.

Seman recalled that he had once instructed the young prince to shift his chair and table.

“I stopped the security guard from helping the young prince because it was my way of educating children.

“His Majesty abided, and lifted the furniture on his own,” he said.

Seman also gave religious advice to his pupils, as part of the nurturing process. Seman said Sultan Muhammad V had shown leadership qualities even at a tender age.

“The young prince was open to discussions and was willing to accept the views of others,” said Seman, who is now bedridden due to stroke.

Seman said His Majesty scored 5As in UPSR (Primary School Achievement Test).

His Majesty not only excelled academically, but was also active in co-curricular activities.

Sultan Muhammad V, born Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra, was appointed crown prince at the age of 16, elevated as the Regent of Kelantan before turning 40, proclaimed the 29th Sultan of Kelantan seven years ago, and installed as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the age of 47.

Seman felt deeply touched upon learning that Sultan Muhammad V still remembers him.

“When surveying the situation during the massive flood in 2014, His Majesty saw my son, who is a firefighter, and enquired about me.

“That very evening, aid was sent to my house (in Kampung Lembah Sireh).

“Tuanku remembers me after all these years,” said Seman.