While most Malaysians are out celebrating Malaysian Day today (September 16), Agong and Raja Permaisuri may not be able to celebrate the historical day with fellow Malaysians as they had to depart to the United Kingdom this morning.
Just this morning, the National Palace released a statement on its Facebook page and said that both Agong and Raja Permaisuri have flown to the UK this morning around 10:30 and they are expected to be there for six days, until September 21. They will be there to pay the final respect to the late Queen Elizabeth II who passed away on September 8, and the trip is done to fulfil the official request of the UK government.
The ceremony to pay the final respect is expected to take place on Sunday (September 18), and the burial of the late Queen will take place the day after (September 19).
In Agong’s itinerary, he is also scheduled to attend the Reception Ceremony of King Charles III on the night of September 18. During the trip, the ruler of Malaysia will also meet with leaders of different countries.
Surprisingly, the National Palace revealed that the Agong has always maintained his close friendship with King Charles III and they have known each other for more than four decades.
“Both of them used to participate in Polo together during their teenage years, and they were even involved in international championships.”
Initially, Agong was supposed to visit Singapore on September 19. Due to his visit to the UK, his trip to Singapore has been postponed indefinitely.
We wish the royal family a safe trip to the United Kingdom, and our thoughts and prayers remain with the royal family and the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Also read: Late Queen Elizabeth II Met Local Nasyeed Group, Raihan in 1998 & Asked Them to Perform in Scotland