The vehicles were also given to Istana Negara’s grand chamberlain Azuan Effendy Zairakithnaini, the palace’s religious affairs officer Munir Salleh, former comptroller of the royal household Zahari Ariffin, and Nazim Alim, the former senior private secretary to the previous Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

Sultan Ibrahim’s office said it was common practice for him to give such gifts, pointing out that he gave cars to officials who were “dedicated in carrying out their duties”.

“His Majesty’s gifts were in recognition of their excellent service and contributions,” a statement on Sultan Ibrahim’s Facebook page said.

Last week, it was reported that the king had given Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim a new Mercedes-Benz, after Anwar was spotted using the vehicle at Parliament. When approached by reporters, Anwar said it was a “gift”.

The king’s office said Sultan Ibrahim also gave 11 cars and eight high-powered motorcycles to the police in 2010, as well as a Proton Suprima S to every district officer in Johor in 2018.

He had also given 10 Perodua Myvis to nurses working at the Sultanah Aminah Hospital in Johor Bahru in 2020, and Proton X70s to three doctors who served in the Johor palace’s medical team a year later.