KOTA BHARU, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan has become the first person from the Indian community to receive the Darjah Kebesaran Jiwa Mahkota Kelantan Yang Amat Mulia (SJMK) since the award was introduced in 1925.
Ramanan also headed the list of SJMK recipients at the investiture ceremony held in conjunction with the 57th birthday celebration of the Sultan of Kelantan, Sultan Muhammad V, at Istana Balai Besar here today.
The SJMK carries the title of Datuk, while membership of the SJMK order is limited to 50 recipients.
Ramanan, who is also the Sungai Buloh MP and PKR vice-president, expressed his deepest gratitude and appreciation to Sultan Muhammad V for consenting to the conferment.
He described the conferment as an honour and a responsibility to continue strengthening his service and contributions to the Ruler, the people and the country.
Also conferred the SJMK were Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Sentosa Jaya Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Razali Daud, Kelantan State Financial Officer Datuk Rosnazli Amin, Silkway Group executive chairman Datuk Daniyar Kessikbayev, Le Mercier's Capital chief executive officer Datuk Leon Emil Le'Mercier and Datuk Mohd Khidir Yaacob.
Earlier, Ramanan headed the list of 767 recipients of state honours and medals at the ceremony.
-- BERNAMA