To strengthen the royal institution, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah says perhaps it is time to consider allowing the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to represent Malaysia at international dialogues.
“I feel meetings between heads of states, like those involving Asean (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) … they (the Malaysian government) should consider allowing the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to represent the country,” said Al-Sultan Abdullah, during an interview with selected media agencies, including Twentytwo13, at Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 3.
“I say this because perhaps, it will elevate the stature of the Agong, to be more respected. It’s open for debate.”
Al-Sultan Abdullah, who returns to Kuantan as the Sultan of Pahang on Jan 30 after his five-year reign as Malaysia’s King ends, added that future Agongs can be involved in conversations on climate change and humanitarian issues.
“This is my view. Financial or security (matters at international dialogues)… that can be represented by the Prime Minister’s Office, or ministers.
“It’s something to consider, for the long term. Right now, we are often involved in the coronation (of other royal families)… that is too formal. The group of rulers we have today are very educated.
“I’ve had this in my mind during my five-year tenure. This is just my view, it’s open for debate,” he added.
Al-Sultan Abdullah is no stranger to the international scene in the past – during his time as the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang. This includes being a Fifa Executive Committee member, and president of the Asian Hockey Federation. As Agong, he attended the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change last month, and spoke about green and sustainable energy at the opening of the Malaysia Pavilion.
His son, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, who is the Regent of Pahang, is also actively involved in climate change issues and wildlife conservation, especially involving the Malayan tiger.
Tengku Hassanal had also attended and addressed the delegation at COP 28, and COP26 in Glasgow in 2021.
