Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, 65, was sworn in as Malaysia's new king under a rotating monarchy system, marking a unique transition in the nation's leadership. The ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Cabinet members, affirmed Sultan Ibrahim's ascension to the throne. A coronation ceremony is scheduled for later.

As one of the country's wealthiest individuals, Sultan Ibrahim possesses a diverse business portfolio spanning real estate, telecommunications, and power generation. His candid nature and close ties with Prime Minister Anwar could potentially bolster the unity government in the face of opposition challenges.

In Malaysia's rotating monarchy system, nine ethnic Malay state rulers take turns as king for five-year terms. This system has been in place since Malaysia gained independence from Britain in 1957, with Sultan Ibrahim's election following an established rotation order.

The role of the king, known as the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, is largely ceremonial, with administrative power vested in the prime minister and Parliament. However, the monarch serves as the nominal head of government and armed forces, upholding Islam and Malay tradition. The king's assent is required for laws, Cabinet appointments, and the dissolution of Parliament, and the monarch holds powers to proclaim emergencies and grant pardons.

Sultan Ibrahim succeeds Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang state, inheriting a challenging period marked by COVID-19 lockdowns and political instability. His predecessor's interventions in political matters, including the appointment of the prime minister, highlight the growing influence of the monarchy in recent years.

Sultan Ibrahim has expressed his intention to actively engage during his reign, prioritizing anti-corruption efforts and national unity. His outspokenness extends to welfare issues, and he regularly conducts road trips on his motorbike to connect with his constituents.

Notably, Sultan Ibrahim's extensive wealth and business interests, including a stake in the Forest City development project, have drawn scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest. However, he has defended his business dealings, emphasizing his need to "earn a living" despite his royal status.

Sultan Ibrahim's wife, Raja Zarith Sofiah, hails from another royal family and is an Oxford graduate and prolific writer. Her contributions include several children's books, adding to the royal couple's diverse interests and engagements.

Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, 65, was sworn in as Malaysia's new king under a rotating monarchy system, marking a unique transition in the nation's leadership. The ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Cabinet members, affirmed Sultan Ibrahim's ascension to the throne. A coronation ceremony is scheduled for later.

As one of the country's wealthiest individuals, Sultan Ibrahim possesses a diverse business portfolio spanning real estate, telecommunications, and power generation. His candid nature and close ties with Prime Minister Anwar could potentially bolster the unity government in the face of opposition challenges.

In Malaysia's rotating monarchy system, nine ethnic Malay state rulers take turns as king for five-year terms. This system has been in place since Malaysia gained independence from Britain in 1957, with Sultan Ibrahim's election following an established rotation order.

The role of the king, known as the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, is largely ceremonial, with administrative power vested in the prime minister and Parliament. However, the monarch serves as the nominal head of government and armed forces, upholding Islam and Malay tradition. The king's assent is required for laws, Cabinet appointments, and the dissolution of Parliament, and the monarch holds powers to proclaim emergencies and grant pardons.

Sultan Ibrahim succeeds Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang state, inheriting a challenging period marked by COVID-19 lockdowns and political instability. His predecessor's interventions in political matters, including the appointment of the prime minister, highlight the growing influence of the monarchy in recent years.

Sultan Ibrahim has expressed his intention to actively engage during his reign, prioritizing anti-corruption efforts and national unity. His outspokenness extends to welfare issues, and he regularly conducts road trips on his motorbike to connect with his constituents.

Notably, Sultan Ibrahim's extensive wealth and business interests, including a stake in the Forest City development project, have drawn scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest. However, he has defended his business dealings, emphasizing his need to "earn a living" despite his royal status.

Sultan Ibrahim's wife, Raja Zarith Sofiah, hails from another royal family and is an Oxford graduate and prolific writer. Her contributions include several children's books, adding to the royal couple's diverse interests and engagements.