22 November 2001 Media Statement
Death of King of Malaysia
“The death of the King of Malaysia the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong XI, on Wednesday 21 November marks a sad day for our close
neighbour Malaysia and for New Zealand,” Acting Prime Minister Jim Anderton said today.
The King, the former Sultan of the State of Selangor, was elected by the Malaysian Conference of Rulers on April 26 1999
and had held office since 23 September 1999.
“It had been hoped that the King and Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong would make a State visit to New Zealand in
January next year and I am saddened that we will be unable to welcome their Majesties here. It had been the King’s
personal wish to visit New Zealand.
“We extend our greatest sympathy to the Royal Family, in particular to Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong, and also
to the Government and people of Malaysia at this time of national mourning.”
ENDS