The Sultan of Pahang is the monarch of the Malaysian state of Pahang, one of the thirteen states in Malaysia. The position is hereditary, and the Sultan serves as the head of state, representing the royal family and overseeing various ceremonial duties. The current Sultan, as of 2023, is Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who ascended the throne in January 2019. The Sultan plays a significant role in the state's governance, culture, and religion, particularly in promoting Islam as the official religion of Pahang. The royal institution is deeply respected in Malaysian society, and the Sultan often participates in community events and charitable activities, reinforcing the connection between the monarchy and the people of Pahang.