An Extensive Military Background, A Car Enthusiast & More: 6 Facts About Our New King
Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar took the oath as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara today, 31 January.
By Yap Wan Xiang — 31 Jan 2024, 03:41 PM
Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has sworn in as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today, 31 January, marking the start of his five-year reign as the King of Malaysia
As the King, he serves as the head of state under the nation's constitutional monarchy system.
He is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. He is also the head of Islam in the four states ruled by appointed governors, and the three Federal Territories, as well as in his own state.
In the coming five years, the 65-year-old King holds the responsibility of attending pre-Cabinet and Pardons Board meetings, consenting to laws passed by the parliament, as well as visiting and welcoming foreign leaders and monarchs, among other tasks.
1. He has a distinguished military background
Born on 22 November 1958 in Johor Bahru, Sultan Ibrahim has a notable military background, having completed a slew of military training and courses.
He started his journey as a platoon commander during his training days at the Army Combat Training Centre (Pulada) in Ulu Tiram, reported the New Straits Times.
Following that, he participated in various training programmes in the US, including specialised courses led by the US Special Forces and the US Army Pathfinder Course. Throughout this period, he completed 19 parachute jumps, with eight of them conducted under the cover of darkness.
Additionally, he's a commissioned member of the US Navy SEALs and an honorary member of Indonesia's Commando Special Forces.
He also underwent helicopter pilot training with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and engaged in a three-month training programme with the Royal Malaysian Navy in Lumut, Perak.
Beside his military accomplishments, he also completed two academic courses, namely the Southeast Asian Strategic Studies and the International Law of the Sea at Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in Tufts University, Boston, reported Bernama.
2. He has been serving Johoreans for more than a decade
Proclaimed as Tunku Mahkota (crown prince) Johor in 1981, Sultan Ibrahim later served as the regent of Johor when his father was serving as the eighth King between 1984 and 1989.
He became the Sultan of Johor on 23 January 2010 following his father's passing, before officially being crowned on 23 March 2015.
3. He is devoted to his family
Sultan Ibrahim is a devoted family man who married Permaisuri Johor Raja Zarith Sofiah Sultan Idris Shah on 22 September 1982.
The couple has five sons and a daughter, namely:
– Tunku Mahkota Johor: Tunku Ismail
– Tunku Tun Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah
– Tunku Temenggong Johor: Tunku Idris Iskandar Ismail Abdul Rahman
– Tunku Laksamana Johor: Tunku Abdul Jalil Iskandar Ibrahim Ismail (passed away on 5 December 2015)
– Tunku Panglima Johor: Tunku Abdul Rahman Hassanal Jeffri
– Tunku Putera Johor: Tunku Abu Bakar Mahmood Iskandar Ibrahim
4. He is passionate about sports
Beyond his royal duties, Sultan Ibrahim is an avid sports enthusiast.
From tennis and sailing to skydiving, tennis, and shooting, he often fills his days with various sporting activities. He even participated in several international polo tournaments.
His love for sports even earned him an entry in the Malaysia Book Of Records for being the first Sultan to earn a Class 26 locomotive driving licence after operating a train for 391.3km over three days, reported Bernama.
5. He has an extensive car collection
According to Bloomberg, Sultan Ibrahim and his family have more than 300 luxury cars in their collection.
As recently as last Sunday, 28 January, he was seen returning to his palace in Johor Bahru in a 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Scat, accompanied by his entourage in a Chevrolet Tahoe.
View the video below:
A Carsome report stated that the luxury vehicles his family owns include a Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06, Genesis G90 Limousine, Bugatti Veyron, Mack Super-Liner Sleeper, Morgan Three Wheeler, and even a Flintstone car.
Maybe we will catch a glimpse of his collection in news photos in the years to come. ;)
6. He is renowned for his people-centric approach and firm stance against corruption
Sultan Ibrahim is known for his people-centric approach. As the Tunku Mahkota Johor, he initiated the Kembara Mahkota Johor (KMJ), a royal touring program aimed at connecting with the people, helping the less fortunate, and promoting tourism, reported the New Straits Times.
He is also recognised for championing the concept of Bangsa Johor, fostering unity and pride among Johorians.
Prior to his installation as the King today, Sultan Ibrahim said he is committed to eradicating corruption in Malaysia, emphasising the need for independent judicial appointments and direct reporting of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to the King.
