Malaysian King Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah Abdul Jalaluddin has been traveling overseas for medical treatment

Malaysia's King Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah Abdul Jalaluddin has been traveling overseas for medical treatment, according to the country's palace. The king's absence comes amid political tensions in the southeast Asian nation.

According to a statement by the palace, the king traveled abroad on September 23 for follow-up treatment after being treated successfully for cancer. Deputy King Sultan Nazrin Shah is taking care of the ruler's duties during his absence.

The news comes after the Southeast Asian country experienced its most significant turmoil in decades. In late July, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin was accused by a party of trying to oust him and control Parliament. The conflict led to the king's intervention, prompting him to order both leaders to cease their efforts. It is not clear if this news will further complicate the political climate.

Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah Abdul Jalaluddin became Malaysia's 16th monarch in January after his predecessor stepped down. He is the fifth of six siblings who took turns serving as king for a five-year term each. The country's constitutional monarchy allows the prime minister to choose one of them as the head of state.

The king, whose palace is in Johor Bahru, southern Malaysia, graduated from Exeter College at Oxford University and was known for his interest in politics and sports.

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