The appointment of the Sultan of Kedah Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah as Yang di-Pertuan Agong for the second time from tomorrow is historic and an honour for people in the state.

Menteri Besar Azizan Abdul Razak said the people pray that Tuanku Abdul Halim and Sultanah Haminah Hamidun are blessed with long life, good health and able to rule with dignity, sovereignty and peacefully.

"I feel proud but mixed with sorrow as it is difficult to be away from a ruler which I have depended on all these years," he said at a ceremony to appoint the council of regency at Istana Anak Bukit today.

Azizan said that he was representing all members of the state executive council, civil service and the people in pledging loyalty and would devote energy and mind to ensure stability and harmony in the state.

The state government's agenda was to guarantee the people's welfare by maintaining good ties with federal government to ensure unity among the various races in the state.

"Tuanku's constructive views, encouragement and guidance to the government to improve the people's standard of living, well being and stress that justice and peace be uphold will become impetus and guidance to steer the state administration.

"Representing all members of the state executive council, the civil service and all the people, I respectfully congratulates tuanku sultan on your appointment as 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong," he added.

- Bernama