KUALA LUMPUR: Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah thanked Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah for her pivotal support throughout the past five years of his reign as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
In a public address among the media before the departure ceremony, he took a moment to express his gratitude to his wife, noting Tunku Azizah as an "invaluable companion".
"I extend my sincere appreciation for the support provided by the Queen. She has been an invaluable companion, offering counsel and guidance in various matters, both public and private.
"Her dedication has been crucial in navigating the challenges associated with my position," he added.
Al-Sultan Abdullah clarified that decisions ultimately rest with him but attributed the support given by the queen as a vital source of motivation in the execution of his duties.
He added that his wife's contributions expand beyond the royal household where her impact was felt on national welfare.
"Her efforts are noteworthy and contribute significantly to the overall functioning of the monarchy," he said.
Today signifies an important day for the people in Pahang as they welcomed home the outgoing king, who is the ruler of Pahang.
Thousands of people braved the afternoon sun as they excitedly welcomed Al-Sultan Abdullah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah at the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) base in Kuantan today.
Al-Sultan Abdullah officially ends his five-year reign as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today after taking the oath of office on Jan 31 2019, Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar will take over as the 17th king starting tomorrow.