KUALA LUMPUR: There’s palpable excitement and optimism for the future with the installation of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Cafe owner Amin Jamadi said he was proud another Johor Ruler would be installed.
“I’m happy and proud as I am from Johor, but what is more important is that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim is the King for all Malaysians,” said the 53-year-old, who is originally from Johor Baru.
Amin, who runs Makan.Buzz Cafe, said the installation was significant for the younger generation.
“It’s not often that we can witness a royal celebration such as this installation, especially for the younger generation.
Proud Malaysians: (From left) Amin, Nallathamby and Lok.
“I urge young Malaysians to take this opportunity to watch the ceremony and be proud of it,” he said.
Amin said even foreign tourists, whom he had spoken to, wanted to witness the installation.
“Most of these tourists are aware of the royal event and want the chance to experience the grand celebration alongside Malaysians,” he added.
Tour guide K. Nallathamby, 63, voiced his desire for Sultan Ibrahim to further unite Malaysians of diverse backgrounds.
“I look forward to His Majesty’s wisdom in bringing justice for all Malaysians.
“His Majesty is an outspoken Ruler, which I like, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing changes,” he said.
Young Malaysians are equally enthusiastic about witnessing the installation.
Lok Pei Xuen, 27, an outfit vendor, said she was looking forward to the royal occasion and wished the King a great reign.
“I’m looking forward to the ceremony,” she said.
University student Issac Cheah Zhen Xuen, 20, shared his excitement about wanting to witness the ceremony with friends.
“I’m quite excited about watching the installation, as this is not a common event, especially for us, the young ones.
“I’ve heard Johoreans say that Sultan Ibrahim is very much respected, so I’m expecting Malaysia to continue to flourish under His Majesty’s reign,” he said.
His friend T. Herveshwaran, 21, echoed Cheah’s sentiments, saying, “I’m excited too since I’m also from Johor!”
This marks the second time a Johor Ruler has been installed as King, the first being Sultan Ibrahim’s father, the late Sultan Iskandar Sultan Ismail, 40 years ago.
Malaysia’s rotational system of electing a king from among nine Malay Rulers is unique in the world.
