Sultan Muhammad V steps down as Malaysia's king
Tehran (KNA) - Malaysia’s king has abdicated, royal officials have said, ending weeks of speculation about his future.
The announcement on Sunday follows a leave of absence by the head of state and rumours he had married a former Russian beauty queen.
Sultan Muhammad V's decision marks the first time a king has abdicated in the Muslim-majority country since Malaysia gained independence from Britain in 1957.
"The National Palace informs that his majesty has resigned as the 15th king effective January 6," a statement from the palace said on Sunday.
The palace did not give any reason for the 49-year-old royal's move.
There had been a question mark over the reign of the king, who ascended to the throne in December 2016, since he took a leave of absence for medical treatment in November.
Source: The Guardian