SHAH ALAM - Johor Crown Prince, Tunku Ismail Ibrahim, anticipates that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim may face challenges when the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, ascends as the new Yang di-Pertuan Agong next year.
During the recent "Keluar Sekejap" podcast aired on Oct 29, Tunku Ismail, commonly known as Tengku Mahkota Johor (TMJ), discussed the future of Johor and Malaysia with hosts and former Umno members Khairy Jamaluddin and Shahril Hamdan.
"He will be a no-nonsense Yang di-Pertuan Agong, prioritising the country's best interests.
"He's understanding yet firm, always aligning with the nation's welfare," TMJ said, describing the Sultan Ibrahim's forthcoming role.
TMJ stressed Sultan Ibrahim's comprehensive understanding of governance.
When asked by Khairy, known as KJ, if the Sultan would be more "hands-on" given Malaysia's current political climate, TMJ promptly responded affirmatively, citing the example of Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
"For instance, any decisions by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi must receive the Johor ruler's endorsement.
"I believe Sultan Ibrahim will adopt a similar proactive stance at the Federal level," he said.
TMJ praised Sultan Ibrahim's transparency in his objectives and was certain that open dialogues with the Prime Minister are imminent.
"Sultan Ibrahim will actively maintain a positive rapport with the Prime Minister, offering insights into what he perceives as right or wrong," TMJ added, highlighting the Sultan Ibrahim's expertise in fields such as development, agriculture, and military equipment.
"The Prime Minister may face challenges, as the Sultan's focus is on execution rather than mere representation, mirroring our practices in Johor," TMJ said.
Sultan Ibrahim was recently elected as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong for a five-year term, effective January 31, 2024.