KUALA LUMPUR: A former aide-de-camp (ADC) to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has described the ruler as a man with impeccable qualities and experience to lead the country.
Armed forces Regiment 21 Commando (Operations and Training) Colonel Normin Mohd Sahar, in speaking to the New Straits Times, said he learned a lot from serving the king.
"I was seconded to Istana Besar Johor for about four years between Feb 13, 2011, to May 18, 2015. My journey began with the selection process sometime in October 2010, when my chief-of-staff from the 21st Special Forces Group (21 GGK) and the special operations director at that time told me about my secondment.
"I reported to duty at the Johor Palace on Feb 13, 2011."
Normin said he assumed the duty in high spirits and a heavy sense of responsibility to protect Sultan Ibrahim, who was then colonel commandant of the special forces,
and his family.
"I solely relied on Allah SWT to safeguard me so I could perform my duties to the best of my abilities, even when faced with challenging situations.
"I encountered various new situations and experiences, when compared with the previous position."
He said everyday was a new learning experience for him as he gained valuable insights and wisdom as he served the sultan.
"I learned the importance of strict time discipline, punctuality, prioritising and honouring the trust given. There is also the importance of being honest and remaining loyal to His Majesty, Her Royal Highness Raja Zarith Sofiah, His Royal Highness Tunku Ismail, The Regent of Johor, and the entire royal family," said the father-of-six.
Recalling two of his most unforgettable moments at the Pasir Pelangi Palace, Normin said he once stopped Sultan Ibrahim from falling off his motorcycle at his polo field, which was still under construction.
"I was with him when he went to see the progress of the construction works. His Majesty was riding his motorcycle and there was a big hole below a puddle of water, which caused His Majestry to nearly crash his bike. In a spontaneous act, I managed to save him from falling down or injuring himself.
"Another time was when His Majestry wanted to go into the Kampung Lepau jungle, but I stopped him from venturing further because of the presence of armed wild boar hunters. Soon after, we heard some gunshots coming from the jungle.
"My duties included ensuring the safety of His Majesty and his property, both domestically and internationally, which made me constantly alert to any potential threats," he said, adding that these were among his most unforgettable experiences.
He said he was forever grateful for the privilege to train, serve and receive guidance from His Majesty.
"Besides, Datuk Ali (grand chamberlain of the Johor Royal Palace) and senior officers in the Special Forces were also there to assist and support me throughout my service as an ADC."
His Majesty, said Normin, was a loving family man and cared for the people of Johor.
"His constant prioritisation of family and the welfare of the people has endeared His Majesty to all layers of society in Johor. His willingness to personally engage with the people of Johor across every district and village, whether in official events or otherwise, proves His Majesty's profound affection for the Johor community."
Normin said Sultan Ibrahim's remarkable memory, critical-thinking skills and the ability to make and execute precise decisions would make him one of the best Malaysian kings.