Ruler of Malaysia's Perlis state dies

Ruler of Malaysia's Perlis state dies

KUALA LUMPUR (AFP): The ruler of Malaysia's northern Perlis state passed away on Sunday after being treated for heart problems, diabetes and kidney complications, the official Bernama news agency reported.

Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail, 79, was in critical condition last week after being hospitalized in Kuala Lumpur on March 21 and was reported to have been on a life-support system, Bernama said.

Although his condition improved a few days later, the Perlis raja (king) succumbed to his illnesses. His remains will be flown back to his homestate to be buried at the royal mausoleum on Monday, Bernama said.

Tuanku Syed was Malaysia's third king from 1960 to 1965. Made the Perlis raja in 1945, he was the world's longest serving ruler until his death, Bernama added.

Under Malaysia's unique rotating monarchy, the sultans and rajas serve as titular heads in nine of the country's 13 states and choose a king among themselves to reign for five years.