KUALA LUMPUR: Celebrity chef Datuk Redzuawan Ismail a.k.a. Chef Wan has called on Netizens to refrain from making negative comments about the previous Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Muhammad V of Kelantan, who resigned last Sunday.
In an Instagram post yesterday, Chef Wan expressed his sadness over Sultan Muhammad’s resignation, describing the Kelantan ruler as a respectful and down-to-earth head of state.
“I read the news with sadness and deep sympathy. I’m sure Tuanku has his own reasons. It is not easy to manage the nation and face public observation at the same time. Many of my friends talked about this, but I told them not to judge Tuanku too hard as he is only human, his status makes it difficult.”
He also said many people who passed judgements against others were hypocrites who felt that they knew everything. Such people were “unfair and terrible”.
“Even I am not perfect. We should stop judging others, but pray for the best for Tuanku and the people of Kelantan.”
Chef Wan’s fans and followers commended him for his stand.
Rozima said: “Salute Chef Wan. Sultan Muhammad is doing his best for the people of Malaysia. We should give him our fullest support and blessings.”
Aishah said: “Tuanku is a humble leader and it is a great loss that he is no longer our King. I don’t know him personally but I’ve heard many good things about him and his family.”
Ruby said: “Agree with you Chef. We should refrain from ‘jaga tepi kain orang’. I’m sad that he has chosen to step down as King but I wish him all the best for his future.”
Istana Negara announced in a statement last Sunday that Sultan Muhammad had stepped down as King, and it was done in accordance with Article 32(3) of the Federal Constitution.
Sultan Muhammad’s reign as King began on Dec 13, 2016, and he had informed the Council of Rulers about his decision to step down.
Sultan Muhammad was on leave seeking treatment abroad for two months beginning Nov 2 last year, and his duties were temporarily taken over by the Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah.
The Conference of Rulers will hold a special meeting on Jan 24 to elect the next Yang di-Pertuan Agong and his deputy.