Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak describes Almarhum Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah as the best example of a Ruler in the concept of Constitutional Monarchy in this country.
He said Almarhum Sultan Abdul Halim, who held the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong twice, was most noted for his dedication and commitment in matters concerning the people and country.
"I always respected Almarhum as a Ruler who was most loved by the people and could be considered as the best example of the role played by the Ruler based on the constitution that is Constitutional Monarchy,” Najib said after visiting the late Sultan's grave at the Langgar Royal Mausoleum in Alor Star this evening.
Najib, who was accompanied by his wife Rosmah Mansor, arrived at the mausoleum about 6.30pm, shortly after arriving from a three-day working visit to the United States of America at the invitation of President Donald Trump.
Earlier, the special aircraft carrying the prime minister arrived at the Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (LTSAH) about 6pm.
Najib said personally, he had earlier considered the late Sultan not only as the Yang-di Pertuan Agong but as a 'father’.
The prime minister said this was based on the very close personal family relations ever since the time of his late father, Abdul Razak Hussein, who held the position of the second prime minister.
"Almarhum was always concerned not only relating to government business but also everything concerning personal and family matters,” Najib said.
In this regard, he said, the passing of the late sultan was a very big loss not only to the whole nation, but also to him personally.
"Tuanku's commitment and dedication to national matters as well as that of the people were very highly respected and this is the biggest loss,” he said.
Sultan Abdul Halim, 89, passed away at 2.30pm last Monday at Istana Anak Bukit, after ruling Kedah for 59 years.
He created history by becoming the Yang di-Pertuan Agong twice, from Sept 21, 1970, until Sept 12, 1975, and from Dec 13, 2011, until Dec 12, 2016.
- Bernama
