The Sultan of Kelantan's Birthday is an official public holiday in the Malaysian state of Kelantan. It is celebrated annually to honor the reigning Sultan of Kelantan, who is the constitutional monarch and head of state for the region.

Table of Contents

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

When is the Sultan of Kelantan's Birthday?

Kelantan observed a two-day holiday for the sultan's birthday celebrations which took place on Nov 11 and 12 annually, however, the celebration was moved to the September 29 and 30 every year since 2023.

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

The History of the Sultan of Kelantan's Birthday

The Sultan of Kelantan's Birthday is a significant celebration that reflects the long-standing monarchy and traditions of the Malaysian state of Kelantan. Its history is tied to the broader history of the Kelantan Sultanate, one of the oldest and most respected royal houses in Malaysia.

The Kelantan Sultanate has its roots in the 13th century, with a lineage tracing back to early Malay rulers and later Islamic influence. The monarchy has been central to Kelantanese identity, governance, and culture for centuries.

During the colonial period under British influence in 19th and early 20th centuries, the Sultan's authority was maintained as the head of state, though some administrative powers were shared with the British.

After Malaysia gained independence from British rule, the Sultanate continued as a constitutional monarchy within Kelantan.

The formal celebration of the Sultan's birthday likely began in the early 20th century, during the transition from local monarchies to modern Malaysian states. The birthday celebrations grew in significance, symbolizing Kelantan's unique identity within Malaysia.

The Sultan of Kelantan's birthday is specific to the reigning Sultan and often aligned with his actual birth date or another officially designated date.

What Do People Do on This Day?

The Sultan of Kelantan's Birthday is celebrated with a mix of official, cultural and community activities that honor the Sultan and highlight Kelantan's rich heritage.

The Sultan often presides over a formal event at the royal palace or a designated venue. Citizens and dignitaries who have made significant contributions to the state are conferred awards and titles by the Sultan.

Special Islamic prayers are offered in mosques across Kelantan, seeking blessings for the Sultan's health and reign.

People may engage in acts of charity, reflecting Islamic values of generosity and compassion.

Traditional music, dance and parades featuring Kelantanese cultural elements are organized, and cultural exhibitions showcasing Kelantan's crafts are held.

Public spaces, homes and government buildings are decorated with flags and lights to mark the occasion.

For many people, the Sultan's birthday is a time to relax and spend quality time with family and friends. Some may use the day off to visit local attractions or enjoy traditional Kelantanese cuisine.

Sultan of Kelantan

The Sultan of Kelantan is the constitutional monarch and head of state of the Malaysian state of Kelantan.

The Kelantan Sultanate has a long history, with its origins dating back to the 13th century. The Kelantan royal family follows a hereditary system, with the throne passed down through male descendants. The current Sultan of Kelantan is Sultan Muhammad V, who has gained national and international recognition for his leadership and as a former Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

Sultan Muhammad V was born on October 6, 1969 as Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra, and he was proclaimed the Crown Prince of Kelantan in 1985. Ascended to the throne on September 13, 2010, following the abdication of his father, Sultan Ismail Petra.

He served as Malaysia's 15th King from 2016 to 2019, becoming the first ruler from Kelantan to hold the position. He abdicated as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in 2019, a rare occurrence in Malaysian history, but continued his reign as Sultan of Kelantan.

Sultan Muhammad V is deeply religious and actively participates in Islamic events. He is known for his simple lifestyle and approachability.