Sultan Ibrahim, the billionaire ruler of Malaysia’s Johor state, was sworn in as the country’s new king on January 31. This unique event occurred under Malaysia's rotating monarchy system, making him the first king from the state of Johor since the late 1980s. Sultan Ibrahim, aged 65, boasts a considerable fortune estimated at $5.7 billion, although it is expected to be even higher.

His wealth stems from diverse ventures spanning real estate, mining, telecommunications, and palm oil, extending beyond Malaysia's borders. The monarch is also recognized for his opulent lifestyle, owning over 300 luxury cars, a fleet of private jets, and even maintaining a private army, a condition set during independence in 1957.

Sultan Ibrahim's ascent to the throne involved a ceremonial oath-taking at the palace in Kuala Lumpur, attended by royal families, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and other lawmakers. The coronation ceremony for Malaysia's 17th king will occur separately, marking the commencement of Sultan Ibrahim's five-year term. Malaysia's constitutional monarchy uniquely rotates kingship among hereditary royals of nine states. This system is exclusive to Malaysia, and out of its 13 states, only nine have royal families.

While the king's role is largely ceremonial, holding symbolic significance as the nominal head of the government and armed forces, they are highly esteemed as the protector of Islam and Malay tradition. Sultan Ibrahim has expressed his commitment to a hands-on approach during his tenure, stating in an interview with the Singapore Straits Times that he will not serve as a "puppet king." Instead, he aims to focus on combating corruption and fostering unity in the country.

Notably, Sultan Ibrahim assumes the throne during a period of intensified corruption crackdown in Malaysia. This crackdown has targeted some of the nation's most influential political figures. The monarch's pledge to combat graft aligns with the ongoing efforts to address corruption issues within the country.

You might also be interested in-Malaysia joins Thailand, Sri Lanka to grant visa-free entry to Indian citizens