sonakshisinha.net – Sultanah Maliha binti Tengku Ariff is the current Permaisuri (Queen Consort) of Kedah, Malaysia, married to Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah, the Sultan of Kedah. As the Queen Consort, Sultanah Maliha plays a vital role in supporting her husband’s reign and promoting various charitable, cultural, and social initiatives in Kedah and beyond. Her graceful leadership and dedication to her people have made her an admired figure in Malaysian royalty.
Early Life and Background
Sultanah Maliha was born on March 15, 1958, in Langkawi, Kedah. She hails from the Tengku family, which is part of the aristocratic Malay nobility. Her upbringing in a royal environment shaped her understanding of traditional customs, cultural practices, and the responsibilities of royalty. Sultanah Maliha received a well-rounded education, both locally and internationally, which prepared her for her future role as the consort of the Sultan of Kedah.
Marriage to Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah
In 1990, Sultanah Maliha married Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah, who would later ascend the throne as the 29th Sultan of Kedah in 2017. Their marriage marked the beginning of Sultanah Maliha’s role as the Queen Consort of Kedah. Throughout their union, Sultanah Maliha has been a pillar of support for Sultan Sallehuddin, accompanying him on official engagements, royal ceremonies, and public functions.
Sultanah Maliha’s marriage to Sultan Sallehuddin strengthened the royal family of Kedah, and together, they have raised a family, ensuring the continuation of the royal lineage. As the Queen Consort, Sultanah Maliha has embraced her role with grace, serving as a symbol of dignity and leadership.
Role as Permaisuri (Queen Consort) of Kedah
As the Permaisuri of Kedah, Sultanah Maliha plays an essential and influential role in the royal court and the wider Kedah community. Her position, though largely ceremonial, is crucial in terms of maintaining the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Kedah Sultanate. Sultanah Maliha often represents the Sultan in various functions, both within Malaysia and on the international stage.
Her role extends beyond ceremonial duties, as she is involved in promoting social causes, charity work, and public welfare initiatives. Sultanah Maliha supports the Sultan in matters of governance, and her presence at state events is a reminder of the enduring legacy and tradition of Kedah’s royal family.
Advocacy and Charitable Contributions
Sultanah Maliha is known for her active involvement in charitable and humanitarian work. As Queen Consort, she has dedicated much of her time to supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and welfare for the underprivileged. Sultanah Maliha serves as a patron of various foundations and organizations that aim to improve the lives of the people of Kedah, especially the disadvantaged and marginalized communities.
One of her key focuses is the empowerment of women and children, and she works tirelessly to promote programs that support their well-being and development. Her royal patronage has been pivotal in advancing numerous charitable projects in Kedah and Malaysia as a whole, helping to elevate the quality of life for many people.
Preservation of Cultural Heritage
Sultanah Maliha has a deep passion for the preservation of Kedah’s cultural traditions. She has been involved in efforts to promote the arts, crafts, and heritage of the state, ensuring that the royal family’s history and legacy are passed down to future generations. Her support of cultural events, festivals, and traditional performances is a testament to her commitment to sustaining Kedah’s rich history.
Sultanah Maliha’s involvement in the preservation of cultural practices also extends to supporting the royal family’s traditional ceremonies. As Queen Consort, she takes part in religious rituals and cultural celebrations that are significant to the people of Kedah, including those linked to the Sultan’s rule and the state’s Islamic traditions.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Sultanah Maliha remains dedicated to the welfare of her people and the continuity of the Kedah Sultanate’s cultural heritage. She is committed to ensuring that the royal family’s role continues to be relevant in the modern era while remaining rooted in tradition. Sultanah Maliha’s leadership is focused on the long-term prosperity and development of Kedah, particularly in the areas of education, health, and social welfare.
As a queen consort, Sultanah Maliha’s legacy will be shaped by her contributions to the betterment of society, her role in fostering unity and peace, and her enduring support for her husband’s reign. Her commitment to public service and the well-being of the people of Kedah will continue to define her legacy for many years to come.
Conclusion
Sultanah Maliha binti Tengku Ariff, the Permaisuri of Kedah, is a beloved and respected figure in the royal family of Kedah and in Malaysia. Through her marriage to Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah, she has become a key figure in the continuation of the Kedah Sultanate’s legacy. Her involvement in charitable work, cultural preservation, and the empowerment of the people of Kedah ensures that she will remain an influential and cherished leader for generations. Sultanah Maliha’s dedication to her royal duties, her commitment to public service, and her unwavering support for her husband make her a remarkable queen consort in the history of Kedah.