The new sultan of Kelantan, who this month ousted his father to become royal ruler of Kelantan state, stripped his brother and arch-rival of royal titles and awards today.

State media quoted Kelantan authorities as saying that Sultan Muhammad V, known as Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra before his elevation, had withdrawn three titles and awards from his younger brother Tengku Muhammad Fakhry Petra.

Among this is the royal title of "Tengku Temenggong".  Two other titles were awarded by the previous sultan and his father, Tuanku Ismail Petra.

In a shock move three weeks ago, the 40-year-old sultan, who had been regent, was appointed new ruler in the culmination of months of palace intrigue.

The former sultan, who is in frail health after a stroke a year ago, launched a legal challenge to overrule his son's "unconstitutional" appointment.

The two brothers have been at loggerheads for the past year since Tengku Muhammad Fakhry was removed from the state's succession council, which determines who is the next ruler.

"The withdrawal of the titles was conveyed to Tengku Muhammad Fakhry Petra today via a letter addressed to him," state secretary Mohammad Aiseri Alias said according to the official Bernama news agency.

Malaysia has nine sultans, who are the royal rulers and guardians of Islam in their respective states. Under a unique rotating monarchy, they each take turns to rule for five years as the nation's king.

The royals assume a ceremonial role and rarely speak publicly. The events in Kelantan -- including earlier allegations that the ailing sultan had been held in hospital against his will -- caused a major stir.

Last year, the Kelantan royals were embroiled in another controversy when the teenage wife of Tengku Muhammad Fakhry slipped away and returned to her family in Indonesia alleging abuse, rape and torture by the prince.

- AFP