Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has refuted criticism that he had meddled in executive affairs or had acted like an absolute monarch.

While the monarch did not name critics or the issues that led to the criticism, one issue on which Sultan Sharafuddin exercised his power was effectively banning pig farming in the state.

In a royal speech marking his silver jubilee as sultan yesterday, the state monarch said that when he reprimands, gives views, or voices concerns about administrative matters, it is not meant to interfere with the executive.

Instead, it is part of his responsibility towards the people and to ensure that their well-being and comfort are prioritised.