Abu Dhabi: Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa congratulated HRH Sultan Abdullah Ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah on his proclamation as the 16th King of Malaysia on Thursday, saying it was a momentous occasion for the Sultan of Pahang. 



HRH Sultan Abdullah, an iconic figure in Malaysian and Asian football, was elected for a five-year reign after the 251st special meeting of the Conference of Rulers at the Istana Negara in the capital of Malaysia.

Shaikh Salman, who is in the United Arab Emirates for the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019, said: “My best wishes and congratulations go to HRH Sultan Abdullah Ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah on becoming the 16th King of Malaysia. This is a proud day for Malaysia as they welcome a new King, who is very much loved by the people.”

“I wish HRH Sultan Abdullah the very best in carrying out his duties and responsibilities as King. I’m confident his valuable contributions will benefit the people of Malaysia tremendously during his five-year rule.”

HRH Sultan Abdullah is popularly known for his passion and leadership in football and he continues to play a crucial role in the sport as a member of the FIFA Council and the AFC Executive Committee.

He was also a former vice-president of the AFC and has held many other positions in the AFC which include Chairman of the Organising Committee for the AFC Asian Cup 2015 and Chairman of the AFC Development Committee. He was also the president for the Football Association of Malaysia from 2014 to 2017.

HRH Sultan Abdullah will take his oath of office and sign the instrument of office on January 31, 2019.Source: the-afc.com