Malaysia Crowns Motorcycle King Sultan Ibrahim

In an elaborate ceremony steeped in centuries of tradition, Malaysia announced Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar as its new king on Wednesday.

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The 65-year-old, dressed in royal blue, took the oath at the national palace in Kuala Lumpur, beginning his mainly symbolic role.

Sultan Ibrahim and his Johor state family are estimated to be worth at least $5.7 billion, with investments in Singapore, palm oil, real estate, and telecom. Despite its ceremonial nature, the king’s role holds political significance in Malaysia.

As the head of Islam and armed forces commander, the king oversees key political appointments. Malaysia’s unique constitutional monarchy sees the throne change hands every five years among rulers of nine states.

While a traditional role, recent years have seen the king influence politics. Sultan Ibrahim, chosen last year, emphasizes not being a “puppet king” and pledges support to the government but vows to voice concerns.

Sultan Ibrahim, chosen last year by the country’s royalty, emphasized in an interview, his commitment to not being a “puppet king.” He expressed his allegiance to the people, stating, “I will support the government, but if I think they are doing something improper, I will tell them.”

The king’s powers include pardoning, demonstrated in 2018 when a predecessor pardoned Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Criticism of the king can lead to jail time.

Sultan Ibrahim, from the wealthy Johor royal family, is a religious moderate, known for ordering apologies in discrimination cases. Married with six children, he is socially active and a motorcycle enthusiast, engaging in charity rides on a Harley-Davidson. His business interests include Forest City, a $100 billion project off Johor’s coast.

With a vast collection of luxury and sports cars, private jets, and a social media-savvy persona, Sultan Ibrahim adds a dynamic touch to the traditionally ceremonial role of the Malaysian king.