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Malaysia Crowns its Youngest Monarch

In a festive, traditional ceremony, held in the capital of Kuala Lampur, Malaysia crowned its thirteenth king. At the age of 44, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin is the youngest person to become monarch in the country?s history. He took over from the outgoing King Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin who is almost twenty years the new king?s senior.

In Malaysian tradition, all monarchs serve for five years on a rotational basis. These monarchs comprise of nine hereditary state rulers. The Malaysian monarchy?s power is limited as most of the decision-making is at the hands of parliament and the government. As such, the role of Yang di-Pertuan Agong (He who is Made Lord) is largely ceremonial in nature. Nevertheless, the new king signed his investiture letter at parliament and his coronation was broadcast live on national television, showing that there still exists a deep love and need for a monarchy in this Asian country.

Until his coronation, Sultan Mizan served as ruler in Terengganu State ? a region rich in oil. His new status as king means that he will spend time away from home, however the new king has placated his subjects by telling them: ?"Although physically I will be far away, it [Terengganu] will only be out of sight, not out of mind." At the swearing in ceremony at the presidential palace, Sultan Mizan and Queen Nur Zahirah were given a 12-gun salute in their honor.