KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said 222 “wayang pacak” (outdoor movie screens) will be erected in all parliamentary constituencies on July 20 for the live broadcast of the installation of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
Fahmi, who chairs the Special Committee for the King’s Installation Events, said the screenings, which will be managed by the Information Department and the Madani Community volunteer group, will include additional events.
“The list of locations in each parliamentary constituency will be announced early next week. We are setting up wayang pacak so the public can gather and watch the ceremony, which is steeped in tradition. We will also hold other activities, such as exhibitions and information sessions.
“We want all Malaysians to gather to celebrate this momentous event, showcasing the uniqueness of the constitutional monarchy, allowing people from all segments of society to appreciate this special event only found in Malaysia,” he told reporters at the Parliament building here today.
Fahmi said the outdoor movie screens are being set up to help people understand the concept of constitutional monarchy.
“Based on our experience during the ‘Kembara Kenali Borneo’ tour by 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, we found the royal institution is very close to the people’s heart,” he said.
He said a live feed would be available on social media platforms to allow Malaysians, including those residing abroad, to witness the historic event.
“This event (installation ceremony) is unique, where Malaysia is among the countries that still maintain the process of appointing and selecting a head of state with a distinctive rotational system. This is a chance for Malaysians to witness it firsthand,” he added.
According to Fahmi, Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and Bahrain King Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, have consented to attend the installation ceremony, and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim has also agreed to invite Singapore’s former prime minister Lee Hsien Loong.
A yasin recital and prayer ceremony at the National Mosque will kick off side events for the installation ceremony on July 18, followed by a special Friday prayer sermon the next day.
Mosques in the Federal Territories and states without a ruler or sultan will use the exact text, while other states will be advised by their respective rulers.
The royal banquet will be held at Istana Negara on the evening of July 20.
Meanwhile, Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, is scheduled to visit the Orang Asli Hospital in Gombak on July 23, and other events, such as the Raja Kita exhibition at the National Museum, will be held on July 25.
The events held in conjunction with the installation ceremony will conclude with the Royal Tea Reception at Istana Negara on July 27.
— Bernama
