KUALA LUMPUR: Sultan Muhammad V has resigned as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong effective today, a statement from Istana Negara said.
The statement, from the Comptroller of the Royal Household, said his Royal Highness, whose reign began on Dec 13, 2016, had officially informed the matter to other Malay rulers through a letter sent to the secretary of the Conference of Rulers.
It said the resignation was done in accordance with the Article 32(3) of the Federal Constitution.
"Throughout his tenure as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, his Royal Highness has fulfilled his duties as the Head of State, a pillar of national stability, a source of justice and basis of unity and uniting factor for the people.
"The King would like to offer his thanks to all the state Rulers for selecting him as the 15th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, from Dec 13, 2016," the statement read.
It added that Sultan Muhammad V also expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister and the government for rendering their full cooperation while governing the nation.
Meanwhile, as the Commander-in Chief, the King, in the statement, said he was proud of the sacrifices and loyalty shown by the Armed Forces during his reign.
"To the people of Malaysia, His Royal Highness is calling for continued unity, tolerance and work together in shouldering responsibilities to the country and ensure Malaysia will continue to be in peace and harmony.
"His Royal Highness will return to Kelantan to be with the state government, and especially its people, to safeguard and develop the state.”
News was abuzz over the past few days over the possibility of Sultan Muhammad V stepping down from the throne.
Sultan Muhammad V was on leave seeking treatment abroad for two months beginning Nov 2, and his duties was temporarily taken over by the Deputy Agong, Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah.
Sultan Nazrin’s tenure as acting Agong ended on Dec 31.