The Sultan of Kedah's Birthday is an annual celebration in the Malaysian state of Kedah, honoring the reigning Sultan. This day is observed as a public holiday in Kedah, allowing citizens to participate in festivities and pay tribute to their ruler. The Sultan of Kedah holds a revered position as both a constitutional monarch and a symbolic leader who embodies the state's heritage and unity.

Table of Contents

1. When is the Sultan of Kedah's Birthday?
2. The History of the Sultan of Kedah's Birthday?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. The History of Kedah

When is the Sultan of Kedah's Birthday?

The Sultan of Kedah's Birthday is celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June.

The following is the list of the Sultan of Kedah's Birthday from 2020 to 2049.

The History of the Sultan of Kedah's Birthday

The Sultan of Kedah's Birthday is an annual celebration that honors the reigning Sultan of Kedah, one of Malaysia's oldest and most historically significant monarchies. The day is deeply rooted in the cultural and political traditions of Kedah.

The Kedah Sultanate is one of the oldest continuous monarchies in the world, with its origins tracing back to the 12th century. The lineage began with Sultan Mudzafar Shah I, who converted to Islam and became the first Sultan of Kedah around 1136 CE.

Historically, the Sultan served as the ruler and protector of the state, overseeing its governance, defense, and prosperity. Over time, the Sultan's role evolved into a constitutional monarch under British colonial rule and Malaysia's federal system.

The observance of the Sultan's Birthday began as a way to honor the monarch and highlight their significance in maintaining Kedah's cultural and political identity. However, the specific date of observance has changed over time. The celebration was amended to be observed on the third Sunday of every June since 2020.

What Do People Do on This Day?

On the Sultan of Kedah's Birthday, people across the state of Kedah, Malaysia, participate in various activities and events to honor the Sultan and celebrate the occasion.

A grand parade featuring members of the royal family, state officials, and military personnel takes place to honor the Sultan.

The Sultan may confer state honors and awards, such as titles and medals, to individuals who have contributed significantly to the state.

Mosques across Kedah hold prayers (Doa Selamat) for the Sultan's health, long life, and prosperity.

Donations and food distributions to the underprivileged are organized to reflect the values of compassion and generosity.

Communities come together for events such as carnivals, exhibitions, and sports activities.

Public buildings, streets, and homes are often adorned with flags, lights and banners to create a festive atmosphere.

Being a state holiday, most businesses and schools are closed, allowing families to spend time together and participate in the day's events.

The History of Kedah

Kedah, located in the northwest of Peninsular Malaysia, is one of the oldest kingdoms in Southeast Asia. Its history spans thousands of years, marked by early civilization, regional trade and the enduring legacy of the Kedah Sultanate.

Archaeological evidence suggests human settlements in Kedah dating back over 2,000 years.

Kedah was part of the Bujang Valley Civilization, a prominent center for trade and culture. Flourishing between the 3rd and 12th centuries CE, the Bujang Valley featured Hindu-Buddhist influences, as evidenced by ancient temple ruins.

Islam was introduced to Kedah around the 12th century through Arab and Indian traders. In 1136, Raja Phra Ong Mahawangsa converted to Islam, becoming Sultan Mudzafar Shah I, the first Sultan of Kedah. This marked the establishment of the Islamic Sultanate of Kedah.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Kedah was under the suzerainty of the Thailand.

In the early 19th century, the Anglo-Siamese Treaty (1826) brought Kedah under indirect British influence. In 1909, the Anglo-Siamese Treaty ceded Kedah to British Malaya, formalizing British control.

During World War II (1941–1945), Kedah was occupied by Japanese forces. After Malaya gained independence in 1957, Kedah became part of the Federation of Malaya, which later became Malaysia in 1963.