Clean-cut: Pang attending to Khoo at the barbershop as the latter reads The Star’s special pullout on His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim’s installation as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: At 8am yesterday, an old-school barbershop in Rifle Range Flats here was already open, with its large TV screen showing the installation of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, much to the delight of the local community.
Many stepped into the barbershop to catch a glimpse of the ceremony while on their morning errands.
Barber Pang Chong Look, 80, and his wife Ong Siew Suan, 70, who have been operating at the shoplot for almost 50 years, said such occasions keep the neighbourhood bonded.
“Since the flats were built in 1969 as Penang’s first low-cost flats, residents here have always gathered to watch important events on television, as not every household owned a television then.
“The tradition is still practised today and fortunately, I have a big television to share.
“It brings much joy to liven up the atmosphere and see everyone together and in harmony, which is also what I would expect the new King to preserve for the people,” said Ong.
A large crowd comprising family members and residents of different backgrounds gathered there to follow the five-hour ceremony.
Some took the opportunity to get haircuts and a shave, such as 60-year-old retiree Khoo Kim Chuan.
“His Majesty has my highest respect despite looking a little stern,” he said in jest, adding that he is confident His Majesty will bring the country to greater heights, especially in the economic sector.
“His Majesty has always cared about and showed concern for people of all races. This is true leadership in a multiracial country.
“I hope His Majesty would also help to foster better ties with Singapore and benefit us,” he added.
Housewife R. Suganthi, 52, hopes His Majesty will find solutions to improve the livelihood of the people, especially the poor.
“Our economy is suffering and we need a leader to put the government in order and elevate our financial status.
“In the past, RM50 would suffice for a day’s expenses. But the amount is no longer enough today,” she said.
Meanwhile, newspapers flew off the racks at 75-year-old Kadir Mydin’s newsstand at a food court nearby.
“Papers with the face of the new King sold out faster; some were already sold out in the morning.“Many people were excited by the installation and keen to know more about our new King.”
Sultan Ibrahim was sworn in as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong in a ceremonious installation steeped in tradition at Istana Negara, marking the start of his five-year reign.
About 700 guests, including the Malay Rulers, governors and foreign dignitaries and leaders attended the ceremony.
Sultan Ibrahim was elected to the office by the Malay Rulers at the 263rd (Special) Meeting of the Conference of Rulers in October last year to reign for a five-year term, which started on Jan 31.
Sultan Ibrahim replaced Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah of Pahang, whose reign as the 16th King ended on Jan 30.
