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TUN Ramli Ngah Talib was formally sworn in as the ninth Yang Dipertua Negeri of Penang today, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the state's constitutional leadership. The official ceremony, held at Dewan Sri Pinang, was steeped in tradition and military honours, including a 17-gun salute.
At 84, Ramli assumes the role following his appointment by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, with effect from 1 May 2025. He replaces Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, who concluded his term after serving as Governor since May 2021.
The swearing-in was conducted before Penang High Court Judge Datuk Rozana Ali Yusoff and State Secretary Datuk Zulkifli Long. Following the oath-taking, Ramli was awarded the Darjah Utama Pangkuan Negeri (DUPN) – a state honour that carries the title Datuk Seri Utama – which was presented by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Earlier in the morning, Ramli inspected a guard of honour by the Second Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, comprising three officers and 103 personnel led by Major Mohd Solleh Jamal.
Chief Minister Chow, delivering a message of loyalty and congratulations during the event, described Tun Ramli’s appointment as a source of pride for the state and a testament to his enduring service to the nation.
“Tun’s character and leadership reflect the stature of a true statesman and a highly respected figure in the nation’s history,” said Chow. “I am confident that under Tun’s leadership and wisdom, Penang will continue to shine, guided by fresh inspiration and spirit towards a brighter, prosperous and harmonious future.”
He added: “Together with members of the state executive council, state assemblymen, members of Parliament, leaders at all levels and the people of Penang, we reaffirm our unwavering loyalty to Tun’s leadership.”
Ramli’s credentials span a distinguished political career at both state and federal levels. He served as the eighth Menteri Besar of Perak from 1982 to 1999 – one of the longest-serving in Malaysian history – before moving on to federal roles including Deputy Minister of Transport (2000–2004) and Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat (2004–2008).
On 24 April, ahead of his official swearing-in, Ramli received his letter of appointment from the King in a ceremony at Istana Negara. He was also conferred the nation’s highest federal title, Seri Maharaja Mangku Negara (SMN), which carries the honorific Tun.
With his appointment, Ramli becomes the fifth Yang Dipertua Negeri of Penang who hails from outside the state, continuing a tradition of appointing senior statesmen to the largely ceremonial but symbolically significant post. - May 1, 2025