The state of Pahang is lush with green, undulating mountains, fertile valleys and a long coastline of white sandy beaches. Here in this largest state of Peninsular Malaysia we will find the highest mountain, the oldest rainforest and the longest river.

It is a land blessed with natural abundance, rich in history and a culture that has survived over centuries.

Presiding over the state with a benevolent eye is His Royal Highness Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Abu Bakar Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mu'adzam Shah.

He comes from a distinguished lineage that dates back 1,000 years. He ascended the throne of Pahang on the 5th of May in 1974 and five years later on 25th of April, 1979 he became the seventh Yang Di-Pertuan Agung of Malaysia.

His Royal Highness Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah is a ruler who takes keen personal interest in all matters related to the happiness and well-being of his people. His sharp mind and keen observation keep state leaders alert and mindful of the efficiency with which they must conduct the affairs of the people.

He is kept informed and constantly briefed on the development and growth of Pahang from all aspects which include the infrastructure and implementation of all projects.

As a leader he is very firm and pragmatic in his decisions and his balanced approach allows all parties to express their views. His Royal Highness Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah is also a man of many talents often displaying his skill and knowledge of matters related to the military as well as in polo, football, hockey, tennis, golf, and even classical Malay music.

His in-depth knowledge of matters related to the military is unrivalled. It was the results of his training in the armed forces when he was in his 20s.

He has undergone intensive training rising up through the ranks to Captain when he served the fourth battalion Royal Malay Regiment in Tapah, Perak.

He also served in the rank of Major with the Askar Wataniah Regiment and was Commanding Officer of the 12th Infantry Unit Askar Wataniah Batalion in Mentakab.

The Sultan's love for sports is well-known. Just like his father the Tuanku is a highly skilled polo player. Since 1984 the Sultan has led the Football Association of Malaysia as President and during his tenure he has raised the efficiency and capability of the organization.

His dream, of course, is to raise the calibre of the Malaysian team to World Cup level by the year 2022. He was also President of the Asian Football Confederation until 2002 and in 2011 he was made President of the ASEAN Football Federation.

The Sultan is also well known for his musical abilities. His love for traditional Malay music and songs has contributed to sustain Pahang's legacy in music.

He penned the lyrics of a song expressing his sorrow over the demise of the late Tengku Ampuan Pahang, who passed away on 29 June 1988. The music was composed by Dato; Ahmad Nawab and sung by Jamal Abdillah.

All through his reign the Sultan has kept his people close to his heart, sharing with them their joys and their sorrows. He sees himself as a father to his people and goes out of the way to be with them. He is always there to listen to their grievances and does all that he can to alleviate their sufferings.

During natural disasters he is the first to arrive to lend support to rescue operations. His calm demeanour and thoughtful responses always help to bring a sense of order and discipline during these times of chaos and confusion. The people of Pahang find comfort in their Sultan and he will forever remain etched deep in their hearts and their lives.

Despite the pomp and pageantry of his life, deep down His Royal Highness Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Abu Bakar Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mu'adzam Shah is simply a ruler with a heart of gold.

For his impressive knowledge if state craft and his distinguished statesmanship the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology considers it a priveledge and an honour to award His Royal Highness with the Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy.