Friday 29 Mar 2024
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KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 6): Kelantan ruler Sultan Muhammad V has decided to vacate his post as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong effective today, according to a statement from Istana Negara.

"In discharging the wishes of His Majesty Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V, Istana Negara hereby announces that the Seri Paduka Baginda Tuanku has resigned as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong effective Jan 6, in accordance to Article 32(3) of the Federal Constitution," the statement signed off by the Comptroller of the Royal Household, Datuk Wan Ahmad Dahlan Ab Aziz read.

According to the Article 32(3) of the Federal Constitution, the Agong is elected by the Conference of Rulers for a term of five years, but may at any time resign his office by writing to the Conference of Rulers, or be removed from office by the Conference of Rulers. Sultan Muhammad V's resignation as Malaysia’s head of state is the first in the history of the country.

Sultan Muhammad V has officially informed the Malay Rulers of his decision via a letter that was sent to the secretary of the Conference of Rulers, said Wan Ahmad. During Sultan Muhammad V's rule as Agong, he had worked to fulfill his responsibilities and the trust placed in him as the head of state, serving as the pillar of stability, the source of justice and as an umbrella of the solidarity and unity of the people, he said.

"His Majesty has expressed his thanks to the rulers who have chosen him as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong from Dec 13, 2016. He has also expressed his highest appreciation to the Prime Minister and the government for having given their cooperation in governing the country.  

"As the Supreme Commander of the Malaysian Armed Forces, he is very proud of the sacrifices and loyalty that were shown to him and the country all this while.

"To Malaysian citizens, Seri Paduka Baginda Tuanku has urged that they unite to maintain unity, be tolerant and together assume responsibility towards this sovereign country so that Malaysia continues to be in peace and harmony," he added.

Sultan Muhammad V is now ready to depart home to Kelantan, to protect and develop Kelantan for the welfare of the people, he added.

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