KUALA LUMPUR: The installation of Sultan Muhammad V as Malaysia's 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara today, is a much awaited event not just for Malaysians, but also for foreign envoys based in Malaysia.
Ukrainian Ambassador, Olexander Nechytaylo, who is witnessing the King’s installation ceremony for the very first time, said he was honoured to be included in the guest list and be part of a unique event that ensured the continuity and stability of the country.
"When I presented my credentials to Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah in July last year, I was absolutely stunned and humbled by the fact that I was not even born yet, when His Majesty started serving as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for the first time in 1970.
"I also find it very symbolic that the youngest representative of the Malaysian monarchs is taking over from the most senior ones," he told Bernama before the ceremony.
At 47, Sultan Muhammad V, is the youngest among the rulers of the nine states. Asked what impressed him about the new King, the envoy said that it was the speech Sultan Muhammad V made when he officially opened the first meeting of the fifth session of the 13th Parliament last month.
To him, Sultan Muhammad V "definitely symbolises a modern, dynamic Malaysia, aspiring for new horizons in the 21st century."
Meanwhile, Argentine Ambassador, Manuel Balaguer Salas, who took up his post here last year, described the King’s upcoming installation as "significant, symbolic and an important ceremony" for the country and for all Malaysians.
Having been to the palace to present his credentials to the previous Yang di-Pertuan Agong, he was excited to participate in his first ever installation ceremony for a King.
For New Zealand High Commissioner, Dr John Subritzky, who is also witnessing the ceremony for the first time, said it would be a very special occasion in keeping with Malaysia’s rich culture and history.
"It will reflect the constitutional importance of His Majesty’s position as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. I have not yet had the honour of meeting His Majesty but I hope I have an opportunity to do so before I complete my posting here in Malaysia," he added.
And for Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia, Makio Miyagawa, the cordial relationship between the Malaysian Royal Families and Japan’s Imperial Family was the treasure of the close bond between Malaysia and Japan.
"His Imperial Highness, the Crown Prince of Japan, who very recently visited Malaysia, was utterly impressed by the warmth, generosity and informality of His Majesty," said Miyagawa, who is immensely delighted to have the honour of attending the traditional installation ceremony.
On behalf of the government and people of Japan, he expressed best wishes for the prosperity, good health and happiness of the King and the people of Malaysia.
Sultan Muhammad V of Kelantan was elected the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at a special meeting of the Conference of Rulers in October last year, succeeding Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah. He took his Oath of Office on Dec 13 last year. -- BERNAMA