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Installation of Sultan Terengganu

March 4

Installation of Sultan Terengganu

The Installation of the Sultan of Terengganu is a ceremonial event that marks the formal ascension of a new Sultan to the throne of Terengganu. This traditional event is steeped in Malay royal customs, symbolizing the continuity of the monarchy and the Sultan's role as the head of state and protector of Islam in the state.

Table of Contents

  1. When is the Installation of Sultan Terengganu?
  2. The History of the Installation of Sultan Terengganu?
  3. What Do People Do on This Day?
  4. The History of Terengganu

When is the Installation of Sultan Terengganu?

The Installation of Sultan Terengganu is observed on March 4, celebrating the current Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, who was installed as the 17th Sultan of Terengganu on May 4, 1998, following the abdication of his father.

The following is the list of the Installation of Sultan Terengganu from 2020 to 2049.

HolidayDateWeekday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2020Wednesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2021Thursday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2022Friday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2023Saturday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2024Monday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2025Tuesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2026Wednesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2027Thursday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2028Saturday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2029Sunday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2030Monday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2031Tuesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2032Thursday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2033Friday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2034Saturday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2035Sunday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2036Tuesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2037Wednesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2038Thursday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2039Friday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2040Sunday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2041Monday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2042Tuesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2043Wednesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2044Friday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2045Saturday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2046Sunday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2047Monday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2048Wednesday
Installation of Sultan TerengganuMarch 04, 2049Thursday

The History of the Installation of Sultan Terengganu

The Installation of the Sultan of Terengganu is a deeply symbolic and historic ceremony that marks the formal ascension of a Sultan to the throne of Terengganu.

The Terengganu Sultanate was established in 1725 by Sultan Zainal Abidin I, who was appointed by the Johor-Riau Sultanate. The installation ceremony was modeled after the traditions of the Malay sultanates, incorporating elements of Islamic rites and local customs. The event formalized the Sultan's authority as both the ruler and protector of Islam in Terengganu.

During British colonial rule, the Sultan's role became more ceremonial, but the installation ceremonies remained significant as a symbol of Malay heritage.

Following Malaysia's independence in 1957, the installation ceremony gained renewed importance, highlighting the Sultan's constitutional role within the Malaysian federation.

The royal regalia used during the installation are central to the ceremony, symbolizing the Sultan's sovereignty and responsibility. The Sultan takes an oath of office, pledging to govern justly, uphold Islamic principles, and safeguard the rights and welfare of the people.

What Do People Do on This Day?

Although it does not occur annually, when a new Sultan ascends the throne, the installation day becomes a historic event for the people of Terengganu and Malaysia as a whole. The official installation ceremonies include presentation of the royal regalia symbolizing the Sultan's authority, the oath-taking ceremony where the Sultan pledges to uphold justice and protect Islam, and the religious prayers seeking divine blessings for the Sultan's reign.

Traditional Malay dances are performed to honor the Sultan's ascension. Gamelan music and other traditional instruments provide a festive atmosphere.

Communal feasts are organized, where families and neighbors come together to celebrate the historic occasion, and popular local dishes are often served.

Special prayers are held in mosques across Terengganu, praying for the Sultan's well-being and successful reign.

Many people and institutions display the Terengganu state flag and royal insignias as a gesture of loyalty and pride.

At night, fireworks light up the sky to mark the historic occasion, adding to the festive mood.

The installation day is a public holiday in Terengganu, allowing residents to take part in the celebrations or spend time with family and friends.

The History of Terengganu

Archaeological discoveries, such as artifacts and cave paintings, indicate human activity in Terengganu dating back to the Stone Age.

By the 2nd century CE, Terengganu was part of the larger trade networks connecting Southeast Asia with India and China. It may have been influenced by the Langkasuka Kingdom (2nd – 14th centuries) and later the Srivijaya Empire (7th – 13th centuries), both significant maritime powers.

Islam was introduced to Terengganu around the 14th century, possibly through Arab and Indian traders.

The Terengganu Sultanate was established in 1725 by Sultan Zainal Abidin I, a descendant of the Johor – Riau royal family. Sultan Zainal Abidin I was installed with the support of the Johor Sultanate and local leaders.

In the early 19th century, Terengganu was under the suzerainty of Siam (modern Thailand). The Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 placed Terengganu under British protection, along with other northern Malay states.

During British rule, Terengganu experienced limited modernization compared to other states in Malaya.

During World War II (1942–1945), Terengganu was occupied by Japanese forces. After Japan's defeat, Terengganu briefly reverted to Siamese control before returning to British administration.

Terengganu became a part of the Federation of Malaya in 1948. The state played a role in the Malayan independence movement, culminating in the formation of an independent Malaya on August 31, 1957.

Terengganu joined Malaysia on September 16, 1963, alongside Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore.

Today, Terengganu is a significant contributor to Malaysia's economy, particularly through oil and gas, fisheries and tourism.

Details

Date:
March 4
Event Category: