KUALA LUMPUR: Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah was today officially installed as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong in a majestic ceremony steeped in royal custom and tradition at Istana Negara this morning.
The installation ceremony, attended by eminent guests, took place at the Balairong Seri, with Sultan Abdullah taking his Oath of Installation, marking the formal commencement of his tenure as the Supreme Head of the Federation.
Earlier, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad read out the Instrument of Proclamation for Sultan Abdullah as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
The installation ceremony began at 10.45am when Sultan Abdullah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah entered the Balairong Seri (Throne Room).
The royal couple were escorted in by Datuk Paduka Maharaja Lela (Grand Chamberlain) Azuan Effendy Zairakithnaini, flanked by Warrior Mace Bearers and Royal Regalia Warrior Bearers, accompanied by the rhythm of 'nafiri (trumpet) played by Malaysian Armed Forces personnel and the percussion of the Terengganu Royal Nobat Ensemble.
The Cogan Alam (Mace of the Universe) and the Cogan Agama (Mace of Religion) are part of the Royal regalia which bear great significance in the installation ceremony and symbolise the greatness of the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Government of Malaysia.
Sultan Abdullah, attired in the official Yang di-Pertuan Agong's black and gold embroidered ‘Muskat’, and Tunku Azizah dressed in a beautiful ivory white attire and matching scarf, then proceeded to the royal dais.