Malaysia has a new king, now will politics finally take a back seat?
- Sultan Ibrahim has warned politicians against shadowy power plays of the sort that have roiled the country’s political landscape in recent years
- Both he and his predecessor have called for Anwar Ibrahim’s administration to be allowed to see out its full term after years of political turmoil
Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, 65, took the throne as Malaysia’s 17th king on Wednesday. A billionaire from wealthy Johor with a penchant for fast cars, helicopters and adventure, his reputation for plain speaking could potentially prove decisive in controlling Malaysia’s bickering politicians.
Hopefully “the focus now can be on the people’s welfare instead of politicians,” said Jaafar Ali, 49, reflecting the views of many Malaysians worn down by endless political drama.
Sultan Ibrahim has promised to support fair governance and peace at a time of mounting public expectations on Malaysia’s monarchy – which rotates among the heads of the country’s nine royal families every five years – to squash the rifts that have unseated two governments over the past half-decade alone.
“I, with all my ability, will at all times preserve Islam, and stand firmly for fair administration and peace in the country,” he said as he read the oath of office.
While Malaysia’s king is limited by the constitution and traditionally seen as more of a ceremonial ruler who is above politics, recent turmoil has prodded the monarchy into a more active stance.