Kedahans elated by sultan’s installation

Kedahans voiced their joy at the installation of Sultan Sallehuddin Ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah as the 29th sultan of Kedah yesterday.

Kedahans gathered in front of Istana Anak Bukit as early as 7am to witness the arrival of the sultan and sultanah of Kedah at 10.30am.

Abu Hassan Ibrahim, 54, and his wife, Bashirah Abu Bakar, 53, who came from Kota Kuala Muda, were in front of the palace gates at 8am to await the arrival of the sultan. Abu Hassan was joined by more than 100 people.

Said Bashirah: “I’m 53, I’m getting on in age. I’ve never witnessed a ceremony like this. This is the first time, and I don’t know whether I’ll get the chance in future.”

Said Abu Hassan: “It’s so exciting (that) we’re able to see the sultan. Even though we can’t enter the palace, we share the joy. We pray for him to rule as long as Almarhum Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah.”

Chong June Kitt, 22, from Polimas Jitra, said she was elated by the event.

Chong expressed hope that the sultan would be blessed with good health during his reign.

“I came here today (yesterday) to take a photo in front of the palace. I’ve yet to catch a glimpse of the sultan and sultanah up close,” said Chong, who was there with a friend, Oon Wei Yee, 24.

Norazizah Mat Desa, 25, and her family were among the first to arrive outside the palace, having taken their places since 7am.

“We thought the parade was today (yesterday), that’s why we came. But no matter, we caught a glimpse of the sultan and sultanah. We pray that they are blessed with good health so that they may rule Kedah well,” she said.

Once the royal couple made their way into the palace, the crowd began moving towards the palace gate to take pictures and videos.