What is Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday in Malaysia All About?
Kedah is a state located in the northern area of Malaysia’s west coast. It is also known as Kedah Darul Aman, which translates to “Kedah, Abode of Peace.” In this Malaysian state, there is a celebration that highlights its residents’ year, which is the Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday.
It is usually celebrated every third Sunday of January, the year’s first month. The Kedah state government recently set a new date for the birthday celebration of the Sultan of Kedah Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin ibni Sultan Badlishah. It is now fixed on the third Sunday of June every year.
The new mandate, according to the state secretary, took effect on June 21, 2020. The government made the said decision in accordance with the authority under Section 9 (1) of the Holidays Act 195 (Act 369).
The Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday celebration gives the sultanate the opportunity to acknowledge its leader’s efforts and initiatives.
Things to Do During Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday in Malaysia
One could argue that there are many things that you can do during the Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday. And it is right. However, one of the noblest things you can do is actually look back and get to know Kedah more. How has your sultanate through the years? How has it coped with the changing times? It can be very refreshing to get back to your roots.
To recall, Kedah—which is a Muslim dynasty in the Malay Peninsula—was originally an independent state before it became a British Protectorate in 1909. The monarchy was abolished after it joined the Malayan Union. It was then restored and added to the Malayan Union’s successor, which is the Federation of Malaya.
Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah is already the 29th ruling Sultan of Kedah. He took the post on September 11, 2017, after his elder half-brother Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah died. Tuanku Sallehuddin was born in April 1942.
In the Malay Peninsula, the Sultanate of Kedah is considered the first of its kind. It is also one of the oldest sultanates in the world as it was founded in 1136.
Indeed, learning again about your background can be rejuvenating. It helps you stay grounded and connected. In addition, it gives you time to reflect on Kedah and your role in it to improve the sultanate in simple ways.
How Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday in Malaysia is Celebrated
As part of the celebration, the Kedah officials proclaimed the Sultan’s birthday as a public holiday. This gives its residents ample time to celebrate the occasion in their own ways.
Before, Kedah held a river sports festival at Tanjung Chali in Alor Setar during the celebration of Sultan of Kedah’s birthday. That time, the State Youth Sports, Culture, Arts, and Heritage Committee permitted 912 rowers to participate in the 15 categories of the competition.
Kedah Sports Council organized the said event. It said that it received 38 entries for the long-boat competition and seven teams for the inter-state Naga boat competition.
Cash prizes and trophies were given to the winners.
Holding such kinds of events brings unity to the people. For the part of the participants, they form bonds during their practice and preparation for the event. For the part of the audience, the event serves as an avenue to cheer on and support their fellow residents.
Venues and Special Events for Celebrating Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday in Malaysia
Since Sultan of Kedah’s birthday is basically a holiday, you can take time off and have yourself a vacation. You can visit numerous places in Kedah so you can relax and pamper yourself. Let us take a look at these getaway destinations.
Alor Setar
This is the state capital of Kedah. Wat Nikrodharam, the capital’s most architecturally impressive Buddhist temple complex, is located in the capital. Catering to Chinese and Thai Buddhist populations, the temple is built with gilded roofs and colourful mosaic walls. Kedah State Art Gallery is also situated in Alor Setar. It has a collection of remarkable paintings, photographs, musical instruments, and handicrafts.
Langkawi
You may also visit Langkawi Island, which is a popular seaside resort. It is the home of beautiful beaches with picturesque scenery. This is a perfect refuge from your busy life.
