New king in Malaysia for the next five years · 2006-12-14 14:30
Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, 44, has become the 13th king of Malaysia.
Malaysia has a unique revolving monarchy, when each of nine hereditary state rulers occupies the throne for five years.
The new sultan, the second-youngest king ever, is to serve a five-year term in the capital Kuala Lumpur after he was sworn in at a solemn ceremony at the king’s palace.
The king’s role in the country is largely ceremonial, as power belongs to parliament and the prime minister.
The coronation was broadcast live on national television. Mizan Zainal Abidin said he would continue to pray for his home state, Terengganu state, informed BBC. “Although physically I will be far away, it will only be out of sight, not out of mind,” he said.
Brunei Times informs, the new monarch was educated in Malaysia and Melbourne, Australia. He equestrian and martial arts enthusiast. He is married and has four children.
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