Najib pays last respect to Sultan Azlan Shah

Najib, who had interrupted his official six-day visit to China, arrived with Rosmah at the Balairong Seri (Throne Room) of Istana Iskandariah, Bukit Chandan, here at 9 am.

They will return to China today to resume the visit that coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.

The prime minister, who was in black traditional Malay attire, was accompanied by the Regent of Perak, Raja Dr Nazrin Shah, and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.

Najib also met members of the Perak royal household to express his condolences on the demise of Sultan Azlan Shah.

The paying of last respects from 9 am to 11.30 am is confined to members of the public.

Dignitaries, ministers, deputy ministers, menteris besar, chief ministers and representatives of foreign missions will pay their last respects between 11.45 am and 1.15 pm.

The Malay rulers, Yang Dipertuas Negeri and national leaders will pay their last respects between 1.30 pm and 2.15 pm.

Sultan Azlan Shah passed away at 1.30 pm yesterday at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur. His Royal Highness was 86.

The remains of the late sultan will be laid to rest at the royal mausoleum in Kuala Kangsar today after the 'Asar' prayers in the late afternoon.