Malaysia is on the brink of witnessing a significant chapter in its constitutional monarchy history, marked by a seamless transition of power as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, concludes his five-year reign on Jan 31, 2019.
What sets this occasion apart is not just the rotation system of Malay monarchs, a tradition since 1957, but the meticulous security measures enforced by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). Seven routes will be completely closed, with an additional 13 routes in the capital experiencing phased closures, ensuring the safety of the ceremonial send-off from Istana Negara to Parliament Square.
According to Bernama, amidst the closure preparations, Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah are slated to return to their home state of Pahang, embarking on a ceremonial send-off journey from Istana Negara at 8 am tomorrow.
The security arrangements, announced by the PDRM, emphasised the significance of this transition, creating an unprecedented level of control in the capital’s routes.
The royal couple’s departure to Kuantan from the Bunga Raya Complex at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at 10 am will be a momentous event encapsulating both historical tradition and heightened security measures.
While Malaysia bids farewell to Al-Sultan Abdullah, the nation anticipates the ascension of the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar of Johor, on the subsequent day.
Scheduled to take the oath of office during the Special 264th Meeting of the Conference of Rulers at Balairung Seri, Istana Negara, Sultan Ibrahim’s inauguration is coupled with the departure of the incumbent and the Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Nazrin Shah of Perak.
As Sultan Ibrahim and Permaisuri of Johor Raja Zarith Sofiah Almarhum Sultan Idris Shah prepare for their journey from Istana Bukit Serene to the Royal Hangar of Senai International Airport, the security arrangements underscore the monumental significance of the transition.
The tightened security measures not only serve to safeguard the ceremonial proceedings but also reflect the nation’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and secure transfer of constitutional responsibilities.
