Johor Sultan arrives in Bahrain for three-day official visit
MANAMA, Bahrain: Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar has arrived on Sunday for a three-day official visit to the country at the invitation of Bahrain's King Hamad Isa Al Khalifa. This is the ruler's first visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain since ascending the throne seven years ago. He is also the first Malaysian monarch to visit Bahrain in 17 years. The visit is significant not only for Johor, but also for Malaysia as it will greatly help in efforts to forge stronger ties with the Kingdom of Bahrain. The island nation with a 1.31 million population is located on the Arabian Gulf and is known for its diversified economy and a civilisation which dates back 5,000 years. Sultan Ibrahim's private jet arrived at the Bahrain International Airport at 12.50pm (5.50pm Malaysia time). The Johor delegation comprises 12 state officials, captains of industries and leaders from Johor government-linked companies. The ruler was also accompanied by his son Tunku Temenggong Johor Tunku Idris Sultan Ibrahim. They were welcomed by Bahrain Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain Agus Salim Yusof, and Governor of the Muharraq region Salman Isa Hindi. Many streets and landmarks in Bahrain's capital Manama were decked in both flags of Bahrain and Johor to mark the visit. More than 3,000 to 4,000 school students were seen welcoming the Johor ruler while waving the state flags of Johor and Bahrain and shouting "Welcome to Bahrain!" They lined the route towards the Shaikh Hamad Palace, where a state welcoming ceremony was held. The Johor state anthem and Bahrain national anthem were played before Sultan Ibrahim inspected a guard of honour. King Hamad said in a welcoming speech that the visit will expand upon the strong ties between Malaysia and Bahrain, which were cemented further during his visit to Malaysia in April this year.
More than 3,000 to 4,000 school students were seen welcoming the Johor ruler while waving the state flags of Johor and Bahrain and shouting "Welcome to Bahrain!." They lined the route towards the Shaikh Hamad Palace, where a state welcoming ceremony was held. Pix courtesy of Royal Press Office
