Sultan cancels two events in view of the Pasir Gudang situation

JOHOR BARU: Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar has cancelled two events to commemorate His Majesty’s birthday in view of the situation in contaminated Pasir Gudang.

The two events are an afternoon tea party and a state dinner expected to be held later this week.

Sultan Ibrahim, who will be celebrating his birthday on March 23, said he made the decision as he was saddened by the rakyat’s suffering due to the environmental contamination in Pasir Gudang.

“Many are suffering because of the pollution caused by irresponsible quarters; some are still being treated in the intensive care unit while schools remain closed.

“I have cancelled the two events as I do not want to be celebrating a joyous occasion as my rakyat suffer,” His Majesty said in a decree posted on his official Facebook page yesterday.

The tea party was scheduled to be held on March 24 while the state dinner was supposed to be the next day.

His Majesty also said the cancellation of the two events would allow volunteers from government departments and agencies including security teams to focus on the cleaning work at Sungai Kim Kim.

“As we know, there are many volunteers who are also civil servants as well as security and medical personnel involved in the operation and I appreciate their commitment and dedication.

“With that in mind, I feel it is only right that I cancel the events for the rakyat and volunteer teams who work around the clock,” His Majesty added.