KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 — Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj credits the people of Selangor for making His Royal Highness’ 25 years as Ruler a successful and meaningful journey.
The Sultan said Selangor had remained one of the country’s most important states, thanks to the contributions of its people and those who had made it their home.
“This would not have been possible without the role of Selangorians and the millions from other states who work here and make Selangor their home.
“I am thankful and proud to have been the Ruler of this state over the past 25 years and Raja Muda for 33 years,” Sultan Sharafuddin said, expressing gratitude to God for granting him good health.
His Royal Highness said every year has brought its own challenges and blessings, but the most meaningful moments had been those spent meeting Selangoreans, celebrating their successes, and standing alongside them during difficult times.
“I have witnessed our state continue to grow into one of the nation’s leading centres of commerce, education and innovation, while maintaining its cultural and religious heritage,” the Ruler said in an interview in conjunction with his Silver Jubilee.
Sultan Sharafuddin said he treasures seeing youth of all races excel, communities unite in times of adversity, and institutions work together for the betterment of society.
“These are reminders that the true strength of Selangor lies not only in its economy but also in its people,” His Royal Highness said.
Asked how the Sultan’s understanding of leadership had evolved since ascending the throne, the Ruler said leadership is ultimately about responsibility and service.
“Over the years, I have come to appreciate even more deeply that a ruler must listen carefully before making judgments, remain calm during uncertainty, and always place the interests of the people above all else.
“Experience has taught me that leadership requires consistency, patience and humility. A ruler’s responsibility is not just to respond to the present but also to protect the future for generations to come,” Sultan Sharafuddin said.
His Royal Highness said Selangor has continued to strengthen its position as Malaysia’s economic engine while expanding opportunities in education, healthcare, infrastructure and investment.
“But we must not rest on our laurels. Other states like Johor and Penang have become competitors too, but that is good and healthy,” the Sultan said.
However, the Ruler expressed dissatisfaction that basic problems, especially flooding and cleanliness, remained unresolved.
“Simple matters like floods and cleanliness remain unresolved, which makes me unhappy,” Sultan Sharafuddin said, adding that public feedback still comes in about poor waste collection, inadequate cleanliness, and floods.
His Royal Highness said people often sent in complaints directly, complete with their personal details and photographs, which the Sultan then forwards to Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari’s office.
The Sultan said preserving harmony among Selangor’s diverse communities is equally important.
“Economic success is meaningful only when it translates into better lives for ordinary citizens. Progress should always be measured not simply by numbers, but by the well-being, dignity and opportunities enjoyed by the people,” the Ruler added.
