THE Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Almarhum Sultan Iskandar today said that his priority as Malaysia’s next head of state will be to safeguard the interests of 33 million Malaysians and not just of the 222 elected representatives in parliament.

He said his election as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong is not a promotion but an additional responsibility that requires time and energy.

“I feel that our country today has been infected with a virus, a virus of division, as I mentioned before.

“This virus stems from political leaders willing to quarrel, insult, spread slander, and divide the unity of the people in pursuit of power and position for personal gain,” the ruler said at his 65th birthday celebration ceremony at Istana Besar, Johor Baru, today.

Sultan Ibrahim also called on the country’s leaders to be tolerant and respectful towards each other for the sake of the people’s wellbeing and prosperity.

The Conference of Rulers, at its Special 263rd Meeting on October 27, elected Sultan Ibrahim to become the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong for a five-year term, effective January 31, 2024.

The Johor ruler will replace Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah whose reign will end on January 30 next year. – Bernama, November 22, 2023.