While the United Kingdom is eager to see the ascension of Princess Kate Middleton to the English throne, and Jordan’s new Princess Rajwa Al Hussein has swiftly captured the hearts of her nation, in a similar vein, Malaysians are preparing to welcome our own version of the beloved “People’s Princess“. Her Highness Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda, like her counterparts, is viewed as a significant figure in representing the people.
Since her marriage to the Crown Prince of Johor in 2014, Her Highness has consistently demonstrated her commitment as an active member of the Johor Royals. She has raised the bar with her impeccable style, active involvement in humanitarian causes, and her passionate advocacy for a better world: embodying all the qualities one would expect in a future Queen.
With Her Highness’ in-laws, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah Almarhum Sultan Idris Shah, fulfilling their official duties as the King and Queen of Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, Her Highness Che’ Puan Khaleeda and His Highness Crown Prince of Johor currently serve as the Regent of the State.
Here’s all that you wanted to know about Her Highness Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda.
Where did she study?
Born on July 16th, 1994, Her Highness Che’ Puan Mahkota completed her primary education at Sekolah Rendah Kebangsaan Taman Seri Gombak in Selangor from 2001 to 2003. During her time there, she actively participated in dance and track & field activities. Following this, an interesting turn of events led her to England, where her mother served as the Malaysian High Commissioner in the United Kingdom. During her stay in England, she attended St. George’s School in Hanover Square before eventually enrolling at Westminster Academy in London in 2004.
After spending several years in England, she returned to Malaysia in 2009 and pursued her studies at Sri Utama School in Kuala Lumpur, successfully graduating in 2010.
Becoming Johor Royal
It was never clarified on how and when Che’ Puan Mahkota and the Crown Prince of Johor met. But according to the Prince himself, he said he had known Che’ Puan Khaleeda for several years and she was his best friend. “We clicked and I can talk to her. We share the same passion and she loves football, which I am also passionate about,” he shared in an unofficial statement before the wedding.
The Royal wedding took place in a private ceremony held at Istana Bukit Serene on 24th of October, 2014. Upon her marriage she received the prestigious title of Che’ Puan—equivalent to the English Lady—as a Crown Prince’s consort that was of non-royal blood.
Throughout the years, Her Highness has actively participated in numerous official and unofficial state events as a dedicated member of Johor Royal. She has often been spotted accompanying her mother-in-law, Queen Raja Zarith Sofiah, during various ceremonies, solidifying her position as the future ruler of Johor.
In 2021, she is named as the Pro-Chancellor of University of Technology Malaysia. She is also the president of the Malaysian Girl Guides Association for the Johor State Branch.
The People’s Princess
Her Highness Che’ Puan Mahkota fearlessly uses her influence to shed light on societal crisis. Among her noteable gestures, she raised awareness and enlisted lawyers to advocate for justice in the ‘Bella Case’. Taking to Instagram, Che’ Puan Mahkota expressed deep concern alongside Crown Prince, Tunku Ismail, regarding child abuse, emphasising the importance of learning from this case to prevent its recurrence.
During October 2023, she once again leveraged her platform to actively advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza, following the Palestine issue.
Her Impeccable Style
For those familiar with Her Highness’ impeccable style, it is obvious that this mother-of-four has a deep affection for Malaysia’s traditional clothing. Frequently spotted donning various versions of baju kurung and a shawl gracefully draped over her shoulder, the future Queen of Johor has become synonymous with refined elegance.
While she rarely deviates from traditional attire, there are occasional candid shots where she can be seen in modern outfits, particularly during overseas trips or unofficial events. However, one would notice from a distance that Her Highness’ truly appreciates the elements of Malaysia’s traditional garments. In terms of colour, she often favours pastel and soft hues, setting herself apart from Her Majesty Queen Zarith, who tends to embrace more vibrant shades.
Additionally, Her Highness is known for her love of collecting small purses.
To sum up, Her Highness Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes and serving as an exemplary role model for young girls and women throughout the nation, she radiates as a guiding luminary amidst the Malaysian Royals in today’s era.