Sultan Nazrin, who is also Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and Raja Permaisuri Perak, Tuanku Zara Salim, attended the departure ceremony before leaving the palace grounds about 5pm.

The ceremony, held at Dewan Seri Maharaja, began with Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad reading out the letter of thanks before Sultan Nazrin, followed by the presentation of souvenirs by Mahathir and his wife, Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, to the royal couple.

About 500 officials and staff of Istana Negara waved as they left the palace grounds for Istana Hinggap Perak, here.

Entrepreneur Development Minister Mohd Redzuan Md Yusof and his wife Hamidah Osman accompanied Sultan Nazrin and Tuanku Zara to Istana Hinggap Perak.

Also present at the departure ceremony were Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail; Dewan Rakyat Speaker Mohamad Ariff Yusof; and Inspector-General of Police Mohamad Fuzi Harun.

On Nov 2, Sultan Nazrin signed the instrument of declaration to discharge the duties of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong during the king’s absence.