Klang: The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has decreed that celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of his reign be held modestly, with several planned programmes scaled down or cancelled. His Royal Highness said the decision was made after consulting the Selangor State Legislative Assembly, taking into account the current uncertain global economic climate and its impact on the people's well-being.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sultan Sharafuddin expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving the state and the people of Selangor during his 25-year reign. Despite the allocations provided by the state government, the Sultan emphasized the importance of moderation in celebration due to the global economic challenges impacting the citizens.
During his royal address at the opening of the Fourth Session of the 15th Selangor State Legislative Assembly, Sultan Sharafuddin announced that the royal banquet at Istana Alam Shah in Klang, as well as fireworks displays and concerts, would be cancelled. Alternatively, the Ruler has agreed to hold two or three tea receptions at Padang Mahkota, Istana Alam Shah, Klang, for about 8,000 guests, including public members, orphans, persons with disabilities, and retired civil servants.
A special reception will also honor foreign companies' CEOs or representatives for their investments in Selangor. The official ceremony at Istana Alam Shah will focus solely on the investiture ceremony in conjunction with the Silver Jubilee Celebration.
Sultan Sharafuddin emphasized the need for prudent and transparent management of all celebration expenditures. He urged that savings from the scaled-down celebrations be directed towards assisting those in need and encouraged donations to be made to the Sultan Selangor Foundation or other charitable organizations for maximum impact.
His Royal Highness advised the public to practice prudence amid the current economic challenges and instructed the state government to prioritize essential spending. He expressed concern over rising global oil and gas prices and supply shortages due to conflicts in the Middle East, which have led to increased living costs in Malaysia. Sultan Sharafuddin stressed that the welfare of the rakyat must remain the top priority in every policy and implementation decision.
