Malaysia welcomes new monarch

Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, 44, takes over from outgoing King Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, 63, whose five-year term as monarch ended on Tuesday.

The new king's eight-year-old son becomes Regent of Terengganu.

Under Malaysia's rotational monarchy, each of nine hereditary state rulers occupies the throne for five years.

The king's role is largely ceremonial, with power in the hands of parliament and the prime minister.

Terengganu hearts

The new king was sworn in as Yang di-Pertuan Agong - He Who Is Made Lord - in a ceremony at the presidential palace.

He and Queen Nur Zahirah were given a 12-gun salute in a ceremonial welcome at parliament before being driven to the coronation in a Rolls Royce.

Sultan Mizan, dressed in yellow - the Malay colour of royalty - earlier signed his investiture letter at parliament and took his oath of office.

The coronation, which ended with prayers and blessings, was broadcast live on national television.

The new sultan, formerly the ruler of oil-rich Terengganu state, had said he would continue to pray for his home state, Bernama news agency reported.

"Although physically I will be far away, it will only be out of sight, not out of mind," he said.

"The fact is, I will always be in the hearts of the Terengganu people."