Tabung Haji (TH) zakat payment

His Royal Highness the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar consent to receive the zakat payment from Tabung Haji (TH) in a ceremony held at Istana Pasir Pelangi, Johor Bahru. The payment worth of RM3,478,208.36 of was handed over by the Managing Director of Tabung Haji, Datuk Ismee Ismail. Until 31st December 2011, the Johor State Zakat and Fitrah Committee received an increment of 7.2% of zakat payment. Also present in the ceremony were the Chairman of Majlis Agama Islam Negeri Johor (MAINJ), State of Johor Islamic Council, Datuk Zainal Abidin Osman; Chief Executive Officer of MAINJ, Datuk Abdul Razak Hassan and the Most Reverend Mufti of Johor, Datuk Tahrir Samsuddin.

27th Jam'iyah of Perlis Mosques General Assembly

His Royal Highness the Raja Muda (Crown Prince) of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail consent to attend and officiate the 27th annual General Assembly of the Perlis's Mosque Officials Jam'iyah at Masjid Muqarrabin, Behor Empiang, Perlis. The arrival of the Crown Prince were greeted by the President of the Jam'iyah, Dr. Mohd Arshad Taib. In the ceremony, the Crown Prince expressed his hope wants the mosque institution becoming the zone of first class mentality to put the institution back to the Muslims glory age in the past. Other than setting the masjid institutions as the zone of first class mentality, its also must be made a zone of muslims brotherhood and solidarity.

The Crown Prince who is also the President of Majlis Agama Islam dan Adat Istiadat Melayu Perlis (MAIPs), Perlis State Islamic Council believed that the Muslims can unite and to realize the dream. His Royal Highness also believed that the Muslims doesn't have any problems to realize the zones as the Masjid is an essentials establishment in term of Islamic religious and social development. His Royal Highness also expressed his hope to made the Mosque as the center of Islamic Culture based on Shariah and aqidah.

Perakian Raja Kecil Sulong was laid to rest

The remainder of the late His Royal Highness the Raja Kechil Sulong of Perak, Raja Ashman Shah ibni Sultan Azlan Shah was safely be put to rest at Al-Ghufran Royal Mausoleum at Royal City Kuala Kangsar, Perak. HRH Raja Ashman Shah died due to Asthma attack at his residence in Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur. His remainder was brought to the Istana Iskandariah around 6.30 am yesterday for the funeral procession to take place. Many citizens of Perak coming to the palace to pay their last respect to their beloved prince. Among those who present were Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansur.

After Asar Prayer, the funeral takes place according to royal custom. The late Raja Ashman left his wife, Datin Seri Noraini Jane Kamarul Ariffin and a son, Raja Ahmad Nazim Azlan Shah and two daughters, Raja Emina Alliyah and Raja Bainunisa Safiya.

The funeral started around 5.30 pm and ended around 7.30 pm. Here are among the pictures during the funeral. His Majesty the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah arriving at Iskandariah Palace, currently outliving his second son.

The body of Raja Ashman Shah was carried by Royal Cart.

The late Raja Ashman Shah were buried at the Royal Mausoleum.

Datin Seri Noraini Jane watering the grave of her late husband

Among the royalty present. From left.

HRH Raja Di-Hilir, Raja Jaafar; HRH Raja Muda (Crown Prince), Raja Nazrin Shah; Raja Bainunnisa Safiya binti Raja Ashman Shah; HM the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah; HRH Raja Kechil Tengah of Perak, Raja Ahmad Nazim Azlan Shah bin Raja Ashman Shah and HM Queen of Perak, Tuanku Bainun.

AL-FATIHAH

Ground Breaking ceremony of Tok Bali Port

His Royal Highness the Sultan of Kelantan, Sultan Muhammad V consent to attend and officiate the ground breaking ceremony of Tok Bali International Port. The Sultan also consent to officiate the Tok Bali Water Festival 2012 in the morning. Also present in the ceremony were the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Kelantan, Tuan Guru Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz bin Nik Mat and the Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Seri Mustapha bin Mohamed. Minister Mustapha in the ceremony stated that the development of Tok Bali International Port is included in the East Cost Economic Region (ECER) development plan as are estimated cost of the Tok Bali Port project is about RM3.2 billion. From this value, the Government funded around RM230 million while another RM3.o billion were funded by the private sectors.

The international port can accommodate to the trade vassals from South China Sea to export their product to the ASEAN Countries, Japan and Korea in the future including as the catalyst to increase the export of local products.

Invitation to the Installation of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong

His Majesty the Sultan and Head of State of Brunei Darussalam, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is among the royalties invited to the installation of the 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah at the National Palace on April 11, 2012. The invitation were handed over to the Sultan of Brunei in a ceremony held at Istana Nurul Iman by the Minister Information, Communication and Culture, Datuk Seri Dr. Rais Yatim who holding the position as Director of the Installation Committee. Minister Rais were accompanied by his wife, Datin Seri Masnah Rais and the delegates of Invitation. The Committee of Installation also include the Keeper of the Ruler's Seal, Datuk Syed Danial Syed Ahmad and Deputy Senior General Secretary of the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Othman Mahmood.

With the invitation and the presence of the Sultan of Brunei in the Installation Ceremony, the relationship between the two nation can be improved and the symbol as friendliness between the two Constitutional Monarchies.

Sultan opens JPJ Pahang Complex

His Majesty the Sultan of Pahang, Sultan Ahmad Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar consent to open the Complex of Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) Pahang in Indera Mahkota, Kuantan. The complex was built with the cost of RM34.8 million at 8.5 hectare land to give better services for the people. Also accompanied the Sultan were his consort, Her Royal Highness the Sultanah of Pahang, Sultanah Kalsom and His Royal the Tengku Mahkota (Crown Prince) of Pahang, Tengku Abdullah ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah.

Also present in the ceremony were Menteri Besar (Chief Minister), Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob and the Director of JPJ, Datuk Solah Mat Hassan.

Raja Ashman Shah died at 53

His Royal Highness the Raja Kechil Sulong of Perak, Raja Ashman Shah ibni Sultan Azlan Shah died due to Asthma at 1.30am in his residence at Jalan Setia Bakti, Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur. The body of late Raja Ashman Shah was brought to Istana Iskandariah around 6.30am and will be buried at Al-Ghufran Royal Mausoleum after Asar prayer this evening.

His Royal Highness Raja Ashman Shah was born on 28th December 1958, the second son of Sultan Azlan Shah by his consort, Tuanku Bainun. He is a holder of Bachelor of Economy from University of Nottingham and Master Degree in Law from Lincoln's Inn, London. He also a holder of Diploma in Business Law from the University of London. He was married to Datin Seri Noraini Jane and was blessed with a son and two daughters.

He was first appointed as the Heir Presumptive to the Perakian throne in the complex State of Perak line-of-succession as His Royal Highness Raja Kechil Bongsu (the sixth in line) of Perak on 11th May 1987. In March 2010, the State Royal Council of Succession appointed him as His Royal Highness the Raja Kechil Sulong (the fourth in line) of Perak. The position he hold until his death.

Condolences from Radin's Blog to the Perakian Royal Family and to the citizen of Perak due to the death of their beloved Prince.

May his soul be blessed by Allah

His Royal Highness Raja Ashman Shah ibni Sultan Azlan Shah
(1958 - 2012)
The Raja Kechil Sulong of Perak (2010 - 2012)

AL-FATIHAH

The Chancellor of UAS

His Royal Highness the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir was appointed as the Chancellor of Universiti As-Sofa (UAS). The instrument of appointment was presented to Tuanku Muhriz by the Chairman of University Council who is also the founder of As-Sofa Foundation, Datuk Syeikh Muhammad Fuad Kamaludin al Maliki in a ceremony held at the Istana Hinggap (Royal retreat) in Seremban. Also present in the ceremony were the advisors of As-Sofa Foundation, Datuk Yahya Jalil and Datuk Mohd. Shukor Sabudin as well as the Vice Chancellor of UAS, Dr. Yusri Mohamad.

According to Yusri, the instrument of appointment allowed the Chancellor to chair the UAS convocation as well as perform the duties according to the university's constitution. The inauguration ceremony of UAS will be held in April 7, 2012 at the Dataran Sentral city campus by His Royal Highness the Yang Dipertuan Besar.

picture from Utusan

Blood Donating Campaign

Al-Muhammadi Kelantanese Royalty Association, Pertubuhan Kerabat Diraja Kelantan Al-Muhammadi had organized a Blood Donating Campaign taking place at the Istana Balai Besar at Kota Bharu. The event, which was a collaboration between the Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital and the Sultan of Kelantan's Office is the first of its kind to be organized. The President of the Association, His Royal Highness the Tengku Laksamana of Kelantan, Tengku Abdul Halim Al-Haj ibni Almarhum Sultan Ibrahim stated that, the campaign had succeeded in get the interest of 100 participants from various backgrounds. Among them were the members of Malaysian Army, RELA and Civil Defense Department.

The Kelantanese Royalty and college students also among those participate in the campaign. The campaign mission is to collect blood to be donated to the Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital. Tengku Abdul Halim also stated that, the association has proposed to make the event as an annual event for the association.

picture from Utusan

2nd Multaqa Ulama Darul Takzim

His Royal Highness the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar consent to attend and officiate the closing ceremony of second Multaqa of Ulama and Scholar Darul Takzim held at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM). Also attended the ceremony were His Royal Highness the Tunku Mahkota (Crown Prince) of Johor, Tunku Ismail Idris ibni Sultan Ibrahim and Menteri Besar (Chief Minister), Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman. The Sultan, who is also the Chancellor of UTHM delivered his speech in the ceremony, stated that the Ulama must contribute to spread the knowledge and understanding of religion to the society.

The Sultan also added that, other than giving guidance and knowledge of the religion, the Ulama must also be an example to the society, in implementing Islam as the way of life. The Islam way of life other not just with external image, but also include the behavior and spiritual nature of the Muslims itself.

picture from Utusan

Unimap Open Athetics Championship 2012

His Royal Highness the Raja Muda (Crown Prince) of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail consent to attend the closing ceremony of Unimap Open Athletics Championship 2012 held at Stadium Utama Negeri, Kangar. Also accompanied the Raja Muda were his consort, Her Royal Highness the Raja Puan Muda (Crown Princess) of Perlis, Tuanku Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil. Both the Crown Prince and Crown Princess were the Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Perlis (Unimap) respectively. Also present were the Vice-Chancellor of Unimap, Prof. Datuk Dr. Kamarudin Hussin.

In the event, Rayzam Shah Wan Sofian and Noor Amirah Mohd Nafiah received the Athletes Award 2012 from the Raja Muda. In his speech, the Raja Muda advice fellow athletes to not become materialistic up to the extend received bribery and drugs misused just to get a shortcut to fame.

picture from Utusan

The Sultan of Kelantan received D.K Kedah

His Royal Highness the Al-Sultan of Kelantan, Sultan Muhammad V were invested the Kedah State Medal of Darjah Kerabat Yang Amat Mulia Kedah (D.K) from the Councillor General of Regency, His Royal Highness the Tunku Bendahara of Kedah, Tunku Annuar ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah in a ceremony held at Istana Negeri (State Palace) Kubang Kerian. The Tunku Annuar were represented the Sultan of Kedah, Tuanku Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah who are currently served as the 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong (the Supreme Ruler) of Malaysia.

picture from Utusan

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

This month architecture segment will cover another famous landmark in Malaysia Capital City, Kuala Lumpur. Compare to other colonial power that set their foot in Malaysia, British holds a significant influence in the land development at early age. Many of Malaysian current landmarks were originated from the British, especially with the British adapting the design of Mughal and Moors architecture as their 'official' design in Malaya. Considering the timeline of British power in Malaysia less than 100 years, it is exceptionally mesmerizing. Architecture segment for today will cover the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, located at the heart of downtown Kuala Lumpur.

HISTORY

The railway station is among the finest building in Kuala Lumpur. It is located at Jalan Hishamuddin, the building complex consist of a railway station, a hotel and KTM Headquarters. The complex were built in 1900s, when the railway line development is at its peak. Before the building's construction, the Railway Station has been opened in 1886, the Resident Station and in 1892, the Jalan Sultan Station located close to the current Puduraya Bus Station. At that time, it is just a humble temporarily wooden station. This original first station, the Resident Station is located to the south of the current location.

The Resident Station, named as such due to its proximity to the official residence of British Resident.

The Jalan Sultan Station.

With the increasing number of passenger and usage of trains, including the growth of Kuala Lumpur, a new larger station was design to replace the stations built in 1886 and 1892. The building construction was commissioned in 1900 consist of three platform and a simple open-air station. An acting architect of Malayan Public Work Department, Authur Benison Hubback is responsible with the building's design. The building was open on 1st August 1910. The construction cost for the building is estimated at $23,000.

The station was in operation in 1911. With the opening of Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, the Resident Station was demolished and the Jalan Sultan Station was replaced by a smaller terminal station.

The Railway Station has been upgraded several time in the past. By the year 1914, the Station has already 4 railways in it. And, in 1915, an extension of the Station consist of a 30-room Hotel and several other buildings were built and the construction cost is estimated at $1,000,669.

At the opposite direction of the Station located in Lot 13, 14 and 23 at Jalan Perdana and Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin stands the Building of KTMB Headquarter. The building were originally built as the new F. M. S Railway Administration Headquarters under the plan of C.E Spooner from 1901-1909. The cost is estimated at $508,000 and was offered to Ang Seng contractor. The construction started in 1914 but was delayed due to the outbreak of World War I. The construction is finally completed in 1917 with a cost of $780,422. (All in Straits Settlement Dolar). The building also severely damage during the outbreaks of World War II.

The Railway Station witnessed several modifications and upgrades, including the electrification work to the railway in 1995. After serving as the main Station of KTM for many years, it currently been reduced to a mere station of KTM Komuter as all operations of Intercity train were relocated at Kuala Lumpur Sentral located at the south of the station.

The train Station in 1929

The present station

Jihad of economy

His Royal Highness the Raja Muda (Crown Prince) of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail consent to officiate the seminar of 'Jihad Bisnes and Wakaf Korporat' at Masjid Al-Hussain, Kuala Perlis. The seminar were jointly organized by the Majlis Hal Ehwal Agama Islam dan Adat Istiadat Melayu Perlis (MAIPs), Perlis State Islamic Religious Council and Dewan Perdagangan Islam Malaysia (DPIM). The Crown Prince who is also the President of MAIPs stated that the Muslims need to transform and make a 'jihad' towards improving the socio-economic status in accordance to the teaching of Islam. In the needs to face current economic competition, the Muslim need to compete in business as well as creating a corporate endowment as an institution that can help the development of Islamic economy.

The Crown Prince also stated that, Islam is currently facing great challenges in economic sectors which are showing that Muslim are lagged behind. The Crown Prince have the confident that the idea of ​​corporate endowment as those raised by the Congress of DPIM and all Islamic Councils in Malaysia in September last year is a move that could help generate economic development of Muslims. During the glory age of the Islamic empire, 'wakaf' are among the most important element in the administration of the country and a catalyst for the development and provision of national infrastructure.

picture from Utusan

Royal Thief were detained and sentenced

The unruly behavior of a Palace's servant meet its end when he were detained by the police last week. Since 2010, the servant had stole the Istana Alam Shah gold collections worth of RM200,000. The 47 year-old servant were detained after His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah realized that one of the palace's gold collection which were a gift from Chinese citizen of Selangor to his late father and grandfather since 1950s has disappear. The lost items were 17 gold scissors and key which was a gift to the late Sultan Hishamuddin Alam Shah and a replica of golden crab which was a gift to Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah by the people of Pulau Ketam (Crab Island).

According to the Palace Grand Chamberlain, Datuk Zakaria Abdul Rahman, the current Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah is a conscientious person and treasured the royal collection as he is also the one who arrange the place of the collections. The Sultan was shocked when he found out that the numbers of the scissors has depleted and the golden crab replica was also gone on March 2, 2012. A police report was lodged on March 12, 2012. Soon after the police report, several individuals were questioned, and in a short period suspects has been arrested and the case had been solved.

According to police, the suspect admitted stealing the items one at a time since 2010 before being sold and it is understood to have been melted down. The police only found half of the scissors at the suspect's house and a receipt of the goods sold at about RM70,000. Other items possibly have been melted down and difficult to trace. The Sultan nevertheless appraised the police for solving the case in a short time.

Latest update :: The Royal Thief named Mohd Ghazali Zainal, 47, was sentenced to imprisonment for 5 years by Klang Magistrate Court. (Personally I think his punishment are not fit with the crime he has committed.)

Head of State opens Sabah's State Assembly Seating

His Excellency the Yang Dipertua Negeri (Head of State) of Sabah, Tun Juhar bin Mahiruddin opens the 5th Session of Sabah State Assembly Seating at Kota Kinabalu. Also present in the opening ceremony were Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Musa Aman; Speaker of State Assembly, Datuk Seri Salleh Tun Said and State Cabinet Ministers. During his opening speech, Tun Juhar stated that all parties can not be satisfied with the sustained growth of the state at this time, but should continue to intensify efforts to produce sustained growth momentum. And in order to achieve it, the government agencies should be directly involved in attracting investors to continue to improve efficiency and service quality. In addition, Sabah needs to shift from low value commodity-based economy to high value economy to ensure economic sustainability in long run.

According to Tun Juhar, Sabah has recorded impressive economic growth as well as an amazing development performance in less than a decade. The per capita income has increased from RM14,829 in 2009 to RM17,242 in 2010 and the unemployment rate has declined from 5.6 percent in the first half of 2010 to 5.4 percent in the same period this year.

MAIPs continue efforts to help the poor

His Royal Highness the Raja Muda (Crown Prince) of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail consent to attend and officiate the MAIPs (Perlis State Islamic Religious Council) program of Program Tanggung Jawab Sosial Korporat and Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Bhd (MIDF) in the ceremony held at Masjid Al-Istiqamah in Telok Jambu, Bintong. Also accompanied the Crown Prince is his consort, Her Royal Highness the Raja Puan Muda (Crown Princess) of Perlis, Tuanku Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil. In the ceremony, the Crown Prince received the payment of zakat from the Chairman of MIDF worth of RM740,000.

The Crown Prince who is also the President of MAIPs said in his speech, that the Council will continue the effort to build and repair homes of poor families according to scheduled. The steps are taken to ensure the welfare and interests of disadvantaged groups get the attention they deserves. The Crown Prince also stated that in 2011, the Council had spent RM3.6 million for the program, which involves building new and repaired 241 houses. While for 2012, since January MAIPS has issued RM812, 795 to build 15 new houses and repair 63 homes of poor families.

Increase the skill of prisoners

His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah consent to officiate the Hari Kraf Kebangsaan 2012, National Craft Day organized by Kraftangan Malaysia starting next April 2, 2012 at Kompleks Kraf, Kuala Lumpur. Also attended the ceremony were the Minister of Information, Communication and Culture, Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim and wife, Datin Seri Masnah Rais. In his opening speech, the Sultan praise the effort of the Ministry of Information, Communication and Culture to organize the event in helping craft entrepreneurs in the country to introduce their products.

At the same time, His Royal Highness expressed his hope that the Kraftangan Malaysia to enhance the skills of craft art to prisoners at the detention center and prison in Malaysia. By doing so, the prisoners can become a skilled craft workers in the ongoing results of intensive training over a period of detention. Among the type of art that can be expended include batik, weaving, metal, rattan, ceramic and wood carvings.

As response to the Sultan's wish, Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Rais Yatim said that he would discuss with the Prisons Department to implement the recommendations of the Sultan of Selangor.

The New Potrait of Sultan Muhammad V

His Royal Highness the Sultan of Kelantan, Sultan Muhammad V consent to approve the new official portrait of the Sultan. The new portrait will be distributed to all State agencies after it is in circulation. The Sultan Muhammad V was born as Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra on 6th October 1969, the first son of Sultan Ismail Petra II. He was the first son of Sultan Ismail Petra and was invested with the title of Tengku Mahkota (Crown Prince) of Kelantan in October 1985. He was proclaimed as Regent of Kelantan after his father suffered a stroke in 2009.

After a year of ailing, the State Government amended the State Constitution where the incapacitated Sultan must be replaced if cannot assumed his duties as Sultan after one year period. Thus, on 13th September 2010, Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra was proclaimed as His Royal Highness the Sultan of Kelantan using the reigning name of Sultan Muhammad V. Currently, His Royal Highness does not consent for any State Royal Coronation to take place for his reign.

Masjid al-Barakah inauguration ceremony

His Majesty the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin consent to officiate the inauguration ceremony of Masjid Al-Barakah Batu 14, Cerang Cina, Terengganu. His Majesty were accompanied by His Royal Highness the Tengku Seri Temenggong of Terengganu, Tengku Baharuddin ibni Almarhum Sultan Mahmud and Menteri Besar (Chief Minister), Datuk Seri Ahmad Said. In the ceremony, the masjid was renamed from Masjid Batu 14 to Masjid Al-Barakah. The Masjid was built in 2007 and started to be use in 2010. The construction cost were about RM4.71 million and can accommodate a congregation of 1,000 people at one time.

Also present in the ceremony were Secretary of State, Datuk Mazlan Ngah; Speaker of State Assembly, Datuk Tengku Putera Tengku Awang; State Excos and UMNO Leader of Marang, Datuk Yahya Khatib Mohamad.

picture from Utusan

Protect the Ayer Hitam Forest Reserves

His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah consent to attend the Inauguration Ceremony of Sultan Idris Shah Forestry Education Center (SISFEC) at Ayer Hitam Forest Reserves, Selangor. Also attending the ceremony were former Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi; Minister of Higher Learning, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin; Vice Chancellor of UPM, Datuk Dr Radin Umar bin Radin Sohadi and Chairman of UPM's Board of Director, Profesor Emeritus Tan Sri Dr. Syed Jalaludin Syed Salim.

In his speech in the ceremony, the Sultan of Selangor who is also the Chancellor of UPM expressed his hope so the MoU signed between Selangor State Government and UPM regarding the used of the forest as Forestry Research and Education center can be extended from 80 years to 999 years. The MoU was signed in 1996 has given the authority to done research at the forest reserves which covers an area of 1,176.1 hectare as forestry research and education center for 80 years until 2076. The forest is unique as its has a mixture of Flora in the forest of Northern and Southern part of Malaya. It is also a home for wildlife such as bear, panther and gibbon.

His Royal Highness also consent to visit the facilities available at SISFEC including accommodation, internet coverage and laboratory.

picture from UPM Forestry Faculty

UMSLink Dinner

His Excellency the Yang Dipertua Negeri (Head of State) of Sabah, Tun Juhar bin Mahiruddin consent to attend the UMSLink Dinner held in Kota Kinabalu. Also present in the ceremony were Sabah State Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Masidi Manjun and Chairman of UMS Board of Director, Abdul Hamid Egoh.

UMSLink is a subsidiary of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) which currently focusing on three major sector of education and training, agriculture based businesses and property management. According to the UMSLink Chairman, Datuk K.Y Mustafa, UMSLink so far has shown excellent performance, especially in increasing the income of UMS. Currently, it has 3 another subsidiary and has established 10 business partnerships. The net earnings for UMSLink were RM8 million last year.

picture from Utusan

The 11th National Literary

His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (the Supreme Ruler) of Malaysia, Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah consent to attend the Investiture Ceremony of Malaysia's 11th National Literary Award held at Hotel Istana, Kuala Lumpur. In the ceremony, Datuk Dr. Ahmad Kamal Abdullah received the National Literary Award and thus became the nation 11th National Literary. The award was delivered by His Majesty Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah. Also attended the ceremony were Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong (the Supreme Queen) of Malaysia, Tuanku Hajah Haminah and Deputy Prime Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The award of National Literary qualifying the Datuk Dr. Ahmad Kamal to receive a cash prize of RM60,000, National Honours Certificate and get the funding to publish 50.000 copies of his works to be distributed in libraries, schools and government agencies.

picture from Utusan

'Mengemping padi' Demonstration

Their Majesties the Sultan and Sultanah of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin and Sultanah Nur Zahirah consent to attend the 'mengemping padi' competition organized by Hulu Terengganu District. The competition were held at Kuala Berang square. Around 650 contestants joining the competition represented 130 JKKK (village development committee) in the district. Also attending the competition were Menteri Besar (Chief Minister), Datuk Seri Ahmad Said and Speaker of State Assembly, Datuk Tengku Putera Tengku Awang.

The Sultan and Sultanah also participate in the ceremonial 'mengemping padi' in the competition. Emping Padi which have a similarity in its shape as an oat is a traditional delicacy, usually can be served snacks, baby food and cakes for serving guests. It is currently rare and hard to made it except in the annual festivals as such. The competition also made a record in the Malaysia Book of Record by having the most participants. The 'mengemping' also consist of several other process. The mengemping usually done by farmer in the past as a sign of gratitude during harvest season and the joy are shared with the local residents.

picture from Utusan

Protect the Malay reserved land

His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah consent to open the 12th State Assembly Seating Session at State Assembly Building, Shah Alam. Previously, the Sultan consent to inspect the Guard-of-Honour at the building vicinity. In his opening speech, the Sultan urged the State Government and all parties to defend the Malay reserved land in the State. It is to follow the provision stated in the Constitution where the Malay reserved land is only for Malay and it is a responsibilities to protect it from being transferred to the non-malay, either to individual or corporate entities.

The Sultan also reminded that, the places which have a value for public interest like forest reserves, watersheds, river reserves and others should be protected from any development activities.

picture from Utusan

Negeri Sembilan State Level of Hafazan Al-Quran

His Royal Highness the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir consent to attend the closing ceremony of Negeri Sembilan State Level of Hafazan Al-Quran. Also accompanied the Yang Dipertuan Besar were his consort, Her Royal Highness the Tunku Ampuan Besar (Queen) of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Aishah Rohani. The arrival of Their Royal Highness-es were greeted by Menteri Besar (Chief Minister), Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and wife, Raja Datin Seri Salbiah.

Also attended the ceremony were the State's Territorial Chieftains. They are the Undang of Rembau, Datuk Muhamad Sharip Othman; Undang of Jelebu, Dato' Mendika Menteri Akhirulzaman and His Serene Highness the Tunku Besar (Prince) of Tampin, Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus Al Qadri. In the ceremony, the Tuanku Muhriz also consent to deliver the presents to the winner of Hafazan Al-Quran.

picture from Utusan

Malaysia Act 1963

Below is the "Malaysia Act 1963" which was printed in England in order to enable the State of North Borneo, Sarawak and Singapore to federate with the Federation of Malaya in 1963. Even though, it is clear today that Malaysia is a federation country, there is unanswered issue of what kind of federation that Malaysia stands?

Is Malaysia is a Federation consist of 13 States of Sabah, Sarawak, Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Perlis, Kedah, Pulau Pinang, Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor and three Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya?

OR

Is Malaysia is a Federation consist of 3 entities of The State of Sabah, the State of Sarawak and the Federation of Malaya?

Even when I'm searching for a qualified person for the job, a lawyer, different answers will come to me. The most clear answer I received up until know is from Raja Menangis, who answered that Malaysia indeed consist of three entities, but the entities are the Malay States, the Straights Settlements and the Borneo States.

So, in my research to find the right answer, I've found the 'Malaysia Act 1963'. And even though it's not clearly answered the status of States inside Malaysia, but it is for some part answered a question regarding the status of Malaysia as a whole.

In my opinion, the first chapter of the act, clearly stated that the States of Singapore, Sarawak and North Borneo is to federate with the existing States of the Federation of Malaya (in the act mention it as "the Federation"), not to formed a new country, but only resulted "the Federation" to only changed her name from "the Federation of Malaya" to "Malaysia". (I hope I doesn't need to explain the meaning of 's' between State and States).

This is what it said in the act :-

1.-(1) For the purpose of enabling North Borneo, Sarawak

and Singapore (in this Act referred to as " the new States ") to

federate with the existing States of the Federation of Malaya

(in this Act referred to as " the Federation "), the Federation

thereafter being called Malaysia, on the day on which the new

States are federated as aforesaid (in this Act referred to as " the

appointed day ") Her Majesty's sovereignty and jurisdiction

in respect of the new States shall be relinquished so as to vest in

the manner agreed between the United Kingdom of Great Britain

and Northern Ireland, the Federation and the new States

(2) Her Majesty may by Order in Council enact State Constitu-

tions to take effect for the new States immediately before the

appointed day.

Okay that's all for this time,I will continue this in the next segment. For refference, the full version of the act can be refer to at the link HERE

Malay Translation

Cuba lihat ayat 'with the existing States of the Federation of Malaya'.. jika anda terjemahkan ke dalam Bahasa Melayu.. maksudnya adalah 'dengan negeri-negeri Persekutuan Tanah Melayu yang sedia ada'

Appointment of Ambassador

His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (the Supreme Ruler) of Malaysia, Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah consent to deliver the instrument of appointment of Malaysian Ambassador to foreign countries. The ceremony were held at the Small Audience Chamber in Istana Negara (National Palace). The ceremony also witnessed the audience of nine Ambassadors and four High Commissioners appointed to Malaysia and receiving their respective instrument of appointment from the Supreme Ruler. Among those who received were the High Commissioner of the Republic of Nigeria to Malaysia, Bello Shehu Ringim.

Also attended the ceremony were Head Secretary of Foreign Ministry, Tan Sri Mohd Radzi and Deputy Foreign Minister, Senator A Kohilan Pillay.

Wisma Public Gold Inauguration ceremony

Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong (the Supreme Queen) of Malaysia, Tuanku Hajah Haminah consent to officiate the inauguration ceremony of Public Gold Building in Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. The Queen also consent to spend time watching the collection of jewelry that the Public Gold has to offer. Also attending the ceremony were His Excellency the Yang Dipertua Negeri (Head of State) of Pulau Pinang, Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and Executive Chairman of Public Gold, Datuk Louis Ng Chun Hau.

The Persona ; Princess Miriam of Johore

It's has been a long time since the last time I post an article covers the biography of Malay Royalties. For quit some times, I received numbers of email asking me the whereabouts one of the member of Johorean Royalty, widely known as Her Highness the Princess Miriam of Johore.

Her Highness is the youngest daughter of Almarhum Sultan Ibrahim al-Masyhur by his sixth wife, Sultanah Marcella (or Lady Marcella Ibrahim before she was crowned Sultanah). Well, the only answer I can give is, I do not know about her whereabouts.

Her Highness Princess Miriam was born in London on 18th September 1950. In 1955, she attended the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of Sultan Ibrahim reign. Even though the Sultan Ibrahim's spent most of his reign's years outside of Johore and his eldest surviving son, Crown Prince Ismail is the Johorean de facto ruler.

Another factor contribute to her popularity is when she is married to English musician, Barry Sapherson in 1978. The married ended up in divorced in 1980. Even though her where about and location are mostly unknown, Princess Miriam and her mother has attended several Johorean official functions.

It is included during the funeral of Sultan Ismail Al-Khalidi. The right-most is Her Highness Sultanah Lady Marcella and at her back is Princess Miriam.

Here is also among the picture of Princess Miriam with the current ruling Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim (Tunku Ibrahim Ismail at that time) in 1981.

All of her pictures can be seen in http://johordihatiku-ahmad.blogspot.com