What is Sultan of Johor’s Birthday in Malaysia All About?
Johor, which is in the southernmost point of mainland Asia, is the oldest constitutional monarchy in Malaysia. It adopted the system in 1895. Every 23rd of March, the Sultan of Johor’s Birthday is being celebrated, making the day a state general public holiday.
The current leader of Johor is Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj, who was born on November 22, 1958. The leader is the 25th Sultan of Johor and the fifth Sultan of modern Johor.
During this holiday, the Sultan of Johor is given the honour of his service in the state.
Things to Do During Sultan of Johor’s Birthday in Malaysia
Given that Sultan of Johor’s Birthday is a holiday, you can basically do anything you want. You can book a trip for your vacation to relax for a while. You can stay at home to read a book, watch movies, and finish your chores. You can also take this day to do your errands. The sky is the limit.
But given that it is the Sultan of Johor’s Birthday, it might be nice to get to know who your leader is. Take a look at how he has lived his life so far. You might be able to pick some learnings that you can incorporate into your life as well.
Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj is the son of Sultan Iskandar. He is known for being a motorcycle enthusiast and having founded the annual motorcycle tour event Kembara Mahkota Johor.
He became the sultan in January 2021 after the death of his father. He was crowned on March 23, 2015.
Under his regime, Sultan Ibrahim released a decree reverting the Kulaijaya district’s name to the former name Kulai. He also ordered Nusajaya to be renamed to Iskandar Puteri. In addition, he renamed Ledang District to Tangkak District.
Promoting a better and healthy lifestyle, Sultan Ibrahim banned vape or the electronic cigarette device that simulates tobacco smoking, in Johor beginning 2016. Kelantan and Terengganu followed suit not long after.
Below are some of his honours:
- Grand Master and First Class (DKI) of the Royal Family Order of Johor
- Grand Master and First Class (SPMJ0 of the Order of the Crown of Johor
- Founding Grand Master and Grand Knight (SMIJ) of the Order of Sultan Ibrahim of Johor
- Recipient of the Order of the Crown of the Realm
- Recipient of Star of Yunus
Sultan Ibrahim has truly maximized the opportunity to serve his fellowmen.
How Sultan of Johor’s Birthday in Malaysia is Celebrated
In 2020, Sultan Ibrahim conferred the Darjah Sultan Ibrahim Johor Yang Amat Disanjungi Pangkat Yang Kedua, Dato’ Mulia Sultan Ibrahim Johor (DMIJ), which carries the title Datuk, to four individuals during his 62nd birthday celebration. It was held in Istana Pasir Pelangi.
The awards were given to Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP) mayor Salehuddin Hassan, Johor Health director Dr Aman Rabu, Mejar Cina David Wong Khong Soon and Yayasan Sultan Ibrahim Johor (YSIJ) trustee Avinderjit Singh Harjit Singh.
Wong Ah Fook descendant David Wong Khong Soon was given the title “Meja Cinar” by Sultan Ibrahim in September last year.
During the ceremony, there were also other notable people present. These are Crown Prince of Johor Major-General Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad and state secretary Datuk Azmi Rohani.
Venues and Special Events for Celebrating Sultan of Johor’s Birthday in Malaysia
There are several destinations you can visit in Johor during this holiday. Let us look at them.
Jalan Tan Hiok Nee
This place, known for being among the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, is named after one of the founding fathers of Johor. There are many top-notch cafes and restaurants situated in this area. This, in addition to many antique shops you can visit when you want to have a glimpse of the past. You cannot also deny the marvellous and breath-taking architecture.
Johor Zoo
Built-in 1928, it is one of the first zoos in Southeast Asia. The zoo is home to over a hundred different species, including gorillas, elephants, lions, and flamingoes. In addition, there are also bird and reptile houses. It can be a fun day for the family to visit the zoo and see the animals before their eyes.
