Outgoing Malaysian King Calls For More Active Role For Monarchy

On the eve of the end of his tenure, outgoing Malaysian King (locally known as Yang di-Pertuan Agong) Abdullah of Pahang called for strengthening the institution of monarchy to ensure more political stability and maintain national unity.

• Malaysia's monarchy nominally plays a mostly ceremonial role, but the outgoing King emerged as a major power broker during the recent period of political instability, making use of his discretionary prerogatives. The ruler is technically elected from the nine state sultans, but by custom the title is rotated between the royal houses.
• Abdullah proposed that his successors should play a greater role in representing Malaysia abroad. He also expressed hope that the current administration will serve a full five-year term after a period of unwelcome political instability, which saw frequent government reshuffles.
• Abdullah of Pahang will formally step down on Tuesday, paving the way for the installation of Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar of Johor as the new King. Ibrahim has echoed the outgoing Agong's view that the monarchy should play a more active role and has recently outlined his own political agenda, including making Petronas and the anti-corruption watchdog the report to the King.