In a grand ceremony at the national palace on Wednesday, Johor Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar was sworn in as Malaysia’s new king, succeeding Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah. The 65-year-old billionaire monarch, known for his extensive business empire, has made headlines not just for his royal duties but also for his opulent lifestyle, including a gold-and-blue Boeing 737, a fleet of jets, a vast collection of cars and motorcycles, and even a private army.
The swearing-in ceremony, attended by other royal families, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and cabinet members, marked the official transition of power in Malaysia’s unique monarchy system. The country’s nine royal families take turns serving as the king, each for a five-year term.
Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, with an empire spanning real estate, telecoms, and power plants, boasts an impressive financial portfolio. His estimated $4 billion worth of land in Singapore and a $1.1 billion investment portfolio, fueled by share and real estate transactions, reflect his considerable wealth. Additionally, he holds a stake in the multibillion-dollar Forest City development project in Johor.
The monarch’s extravagant lifestyle extends beyond his financial assets. The gold-and-blue Boeing 737 is just one highlight of his extensive jet collection. Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar also possesses an impressive array of cars and motorcycles. Reports indicate that he maintains a private army, further emphasizing the scale of his influence and resources.
The new king’s personal life is equally notable. His wife, Raja Zarith Sofiah, an Oxford graduate and prolific writer, has authored numerous children’s books. The royal couple is parents to five sons and a daughter, contributing to the multi-faceted image of the royal family.
In terms of political power, Malaysia’s king holds a mostly ceremonial role. Administrative authority lies with the prime minister and the parliament, while the king is considered the protector of Islam and Malay tradition. As the nominal head of the government and the armed forces, the king’s assent is required for laws, cabinet appointments, and the dissolution of parliament for general elections. Additionally, he has the authority to proclaim an emergency and grant pardons to criminals.
Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar’s reign is expected to bring a blend of tradition and opulence to Malaysia’s monarchy, with his vast wealth and extravagant lifestyle capturing the attention of the public and the media alike.
Sources By Agencies
