In a historic event, Malaysia welcomes its new king, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar ,Malaysia’s New King. The billionaire sultan, who rules Malaysia’s Johor state, has been sworn in under the nation’s unique rotating monarchy system. This system is believed to be the world’s only rotating system of monarchy.
A Hands-On Monarch
Sultan Ibrahim takes the throne at a time when royal intervention has been increasingly needed to deal with political instability. His new position is largely ceremonial but has in recent years featured heavily in the country’s fractured political landscape. This has prompted the king to wield rarely used discretionary powers to quell political instability.
In an interview with Singapore’s The Straits Times, the 65-year-old said he was not keen on becoming a “puppet king”. He stated, “There’re 222 of you [lawmakers] in parliament. There’re over 30 million [population] outside. I’m not with you, I’m with them,”. This statement indicates his intention to be a hands-on monarch who is in touch with the people.
The King’s Powers and Influence
The king also wields the power to pardon. In 2018, Sultan Muhammad V, one of Ibrahim’s predecessors, pardoned Anwar Ibrahim, who had served a jail sentence for sodomy and is now Malaysia’s prime minister. In addition to overseeing major political appointments, the king serves as the official head of Islam in the Muslim-majority country and commander-in-chief of its armed forces.
The King’s Wealth and Lifestyle
Known for his large collection of luxury cars and motorbikes, Bloomberg estimates Sultan Ibrahim and his family are worth at least $5.7bn. His wealth includes land in Singapore and investments in various companies including in palm oil, real estate, and telecommunications.
Sultan Ibrahim, who is of Malay-British descent, belongs to the powerful Johor royal family, the head of which commands a small private army. He has a close relationship with Anwar and has been outspoken about Malaysian politics and corruption. Sultan Ibrahim is seen as a religious moderate.
Conclusion
Sultan Ibrahim’s reign begins as the Malaysian public looks for greater leadership from the country’s king to help heal caustic divisions among bickering politicians. His ascension to the throne was decided by a meeting in October last year of the Conference of Rulers. As Malaysia welcomes its new king, the nation and the world watch with anticipation to see how Sultan Ibrahim will navigate his reign in these challenging times.
