Coronation date set for Paku Buwono XIII

SURAKARTA, Central Java: Prince Hangabehi will be inaugurated as the new sultan of Surakarta on Sept. 10, succeeding his father, Paku Buwono XII, who died last month.

The royal family agreed to name Hangabehi, the oldest son of the late sultan from his concubine Princess Paradapan Ningrum, the new sultan during a plenary meeting over the weekend.

Palace spokesman Prince Puger said the meeting also resulted in a consensus that the new sultan would be responsible for inventory, documentary and maintenance works of all the Paku Buwono dynasty's heritage, which dates back to the era of the Majapahit kingdom in the 15th century.

Hangabehi will be installed crown prince prior to his coronation as Paku Buwono XIII, the spokesman said.

The meeting was held after a mass prayer that coincided with the 40th day of the sultan's death.

Thousands of people attended the event, including State Secretary Bambang Kesowo. -- Antara