Selangor Sultan's Leadership: A Legacy Of Humility And People-centered Governance

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- The leadership of the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, is characterised by a unique blend of humility, directness and unwavering commitment to the people of the state, according to Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai.

Recalling an interview he conducted with His Royal Highness in 2011, when celebrating the Ruler's 10th year as the Sultan of Selangor, Wong said Sultan Sharafuddin has consistently prioritised the well-being of the rakyat throughout his years of service, stressing the importance of harmony and unity in Selangor.

“The Sultan has always led by example, prioritising harmony, empathy and the well-being of his rakyat. He is a leader who truly understands the needs of his people, and his influence will continue to shape Selangor for years to come.

“What strikes me the most is his consistency. He has remained true to his principles for the past 20 years. His wish has always been to see the rakyat living in harmony and enjoying a better quality of life,” he said during Bernama TV's The Nation programme titled ‘Through The Eyes of a Journalist: Sultan of Selangor’.

Having known the Ruler for nearly two decades, Wong emphasised Sultan Sharafuddin's down-to-earth nature and his rejection of unnecessary pomp and pageantry, preferring to keep things simple, often requesting no red carpets or formalities at public events.

On top of that, the National Journalism Laureate said Sultan Sharafuddin also personally reads letters and emails sent by the public, a practice that sets him apart from many political leaders.

“He takes the time to read the complaints of his people. I don't think even our elected representatives do that every day,” Wong said, highlighting the Ruler's accessibility and direct engagement with issues affecting ordinary citizens.

Wong said one poignant example was a letter from a woman who had been struggling with a seven-year-long divorce case, and the Ruler - moved by her plea - personally intervened to expedite the legal process, demonstrating his deep empathy and commitment to justice.

“He pushed the buttons to ensure the case was resolved,” Wong added.

Despite his strong sense of responsibility, Wong described Sultan Sharafuddin as a leader who refrains from overstepping his constitutional role.

“He is fully aware of his duties as a constitutional ruler and understands the limits of his power. He never meddles in the day-to-day running of the government, but uses his influence to highlight important issues when necessary,” he said.

As His Royal Highness celebrated his 80th birthday and approaches 25 years on the throne, Wong praised the Ruler’s contributions, saying that his legacy is one of selfless leadership.

“At 80, he is still active and engages with his people. His approach to leadership, which prioritises the rakyat and focuses on unity, remains a model for all leaders,” he added.

-- BERNAMA