Royal news

Arrived in Penang yesterday for a few days of beachside R&R, to be greeted by the news of the demise of the royal ruler of Negeri Sembilan, one of nine royal districts within Malaysia. Had not been aware that hereditary rulers still prevailed in this quasi-democratic state. From what I can gather from news reports, the way to think about these men is the equivalent of the Daleys of Chicago, hereditary regional potentates who rule for life.

Anyway, since the Times is unlikely to carry this item, here's the name of the deceased for the history buff in you: Al-Marhum Kdymm Yang di-Pertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Ja'Afar Ibni Al-Marhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman. There WILL be a quiz so pay attention !!

Yangs and Sultans and Rajas and Undangs all scurrying about. Reading today's paper was like slogging through a Dostoevsky novel, with impossibly named characters and family trees that can never be memorized.

On the good news front, Mawi tied the knot with Ekin (see above) before 20 thousand people yesterday. Extra credit for you who can email me who Mawi is, without the benefit of a google search.

Finally, in other royal news carried in today's paper, it seems that QEII has decided to ban bankers and financiers from the list of New Year's honors this year. Harrumph! Makes one long for the days when these types could be held in the Tower prior to being burned at the stake.


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