Notes on Raja Zarith Sofiah and King Ibrahim

Introduction

Raja Zarith Sofiah is the first and only wife of Malaysia's King Ibrahim.
They have been married for over 40 years, facing many challenges together.
Subjects regard her as a dedicated queen.
Key questions: Why were their parents against their marriage? How did she remain the king's only wife? What challenges did she face during her son's illness?

Birth and Family Background:
- Born in 1959 into the royal family of Perak, Malaysia.
- Father: Idris Shah the Second, a wealthy landowner with eight wives and 14 children.
- Sofiah was the third child and received much love from her father.
Education:
- Attended primary school in Perak; later went to England for secondary education at Cheltenham College for Women.
- Earned a Master of Arts degree in Chinese Studies from Oxford University.
- Notably the most educated queen in Malaysia.

First Encounter:
- Met Prince Ibrahim at a social gathering while he was the crown prince.
- They quickly connected and realized they were meant for each other.
Parental Disapproval:
- Their marriage was initially denied due to the Johor royal family's tarnished reputation (accusations against Sultan Iskandar and Ibrahim).
- Their love story was likened to Romeo and Juliet, but they ultimately received blessings to marry in 1982.

The wedding was celebrated grandly across both kingdoms.
Festivities included parades, a record-sized cake, and stamps issued in their honor.

Zarith Sofiah continued her studies post-marriage and became a respected figure in her community.
The couple has six children (5 sons, 1 daughter), all well-educated.

Son's Illness:
- Fourth child Abdul Jalil diagnosed with liver cancer at age 24.
- Zarith Sofiah supported him during treatment and faced her own emotional struggles.
- Despite efforts, Abdul Jalil passed away in 2015, deeply affecting the queen.
- The royal family decided to honor his memory by building a cancer center in Johor Baru.

Coronation:
- In January 2024, she became Queen of all Malaysia; the coronation took place on January 31, 2024.
- This marked a bittersweet moment, coinciding with her father's death anniversary.
Contributions and Charitable Work:
- Actively involved in scientific, social, and fine arts activities.
- Wrote several scientific works and children's books, exhibiting paintings in prestigious exhibitions.
- Known for her philanthropy, particularly during natural disasters, earning her the title "Queen of Hearts."

Zarith Sofiah inherited her philanthropic passion from her parents.
Her main mission is to serve her family and support her husband, King Ibrahim.
Remarkably, King Ibrahim has never considered taking a second wife, emphasizing their strong relationship.