Agong moved to tears, expresses gratitude to the people
KUALA LUMPUR: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah was moved to tears as His Majesty spoke at a State Banquet in conjunction with the completion of his reign, here last night.
Al-Sultan Abdullah in his speech humbly expressed his gratitude to all Malaysians who accepted His Majesty and Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah’s roles as King and Queen.
“Naturally, everything that begins must end and every meeting must have a parting. Therefore, the time has come for me and Raja Permaisuri Agong to step down.
“I will leave for Pahang with mixed feelings of sadness, happiness and gratitude because I have carried out this trust to the best of my ability; and the sincerity of my heart.
“The question of whether I was successful or not is not for me to evaluate. Let history judge,” His Majesty said at the ceremony.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his address expressed confidence that the people had benefited from the justice and prudence of Al-Sultan Abdullah in ensuring that everyone enjoyed peace throughout His Majesty’s reign.
He said the concern shown by Al-Sultan Abdullah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah for the people’s welfare went beyond the confines of the established boundaries between a monarch and his subjects.
“Beginning with prolonged political instability, the spread and impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and shifting economic downturns, the country has been placed in uncertainty and crisis.
“However, His Majesty has fulfilled the responsibilities of leadership perfectly, embodying qualities with a people-centric approach which consistently aligns with the rakyat to ensure that peace and well-being remain priorities in any circumstances.”
Anwar said the reign of Al Sultan Abdullah also marked a new chapter in the country’s history, with the government administration tested through three changes of prime ministers, requiring efficient leadership and sacrifices beyond ordinary practices.