Sultan of Malaysia Moves Xi Jinping with Emotional Tribute to His Late Son

Politics John Brightwater September 21, 2024

Sultan of Malaysia Moves Xi Jinping with Emotional Tribute to His Late Son

Summary
Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, the king of Malaysia, expressed deep emotion while meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping, reminiscing about his late son who died from liver cancer. He thanked China for aiding in his son’s treatment during this historical state visit marking 50 years of Malaysia-China relations.

During a state visit to China, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, the king of Malaysia, was visibly emotional while meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping, as the discussion shifted to the memory of his late son. Reports from the Sin Chew Daily revealed that during the meeting, Sultan Ibrahim expressed gratitude towards China for the medical treatment his son received before his untimely death from liver cancer at the age of 25 in 2015. This visit, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, marks the first occasion in ten years that a Malaysian monarch has visited China, and serves as Sultan Ibrahim’s inaugural overseas state visit since his coronation in July.

The meeting between Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar and President Xi Jinping took place against the backdrop of a significant historical occasion, the half-century mark of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties. The Malaysian monarchy operates as a constitutional system with a rotation tradition among the rulers of nine states, reflecting Malaysia’s rich heritage and governance structure. The king’s heartfelt recollections of his late son during this state visit highlight personal connections intertwined with state affairs, illustrating the depth of diplomatic relationships founded upon mutual respect and shared experiences.

In conclusion, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar’s emotional encounter with President Xi Jinping serves to underscore the profound impact of familial loss amidst diplomatic engagements. His acknowledgment of the care provided by Chinese medical institutions exemplifies the intertwining of personal and national ties that characterize international relations and the enduring bonds formed through shared adversity.

Original Source: www.scmp.com