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Get to Know the Raja Puan Besar of Perak, HRH Raja Nazhatul Shima

19 Feb 2025 · 4 min read · 247 ·By Iskandar Zulqarnain

Get to Know the Raja Puan Besar of Perak, Raja Nazhatul Shima

Her Royal Highness Raja Nazhatul Shima binti Almarhum Sultan Idris A’fifullah Shah, more affectionately known as Ku Dottie, is a familiar figure in the state of Perak. Born on February 20, 1952, she is the Raja Puan Besar of Perak Darul Ridzuan, holding an important role in the state's royal institution.

Her life is rich with history, education, and dedication to her family and society. This article will delve deeper into her background, education, personal life, and contributions to the state of Perak.

Royal Family Background

Raja Nazhatul Shima is the second child of the late Sultan Idris Al-Mutawakil Alallahi Shah ibni Sultan Iskandar Shah, the 33rd Sultan of Perak, and Raja Perempuan Muzwin binti Raja Ariff Shah.

She was born at Racecourse Road (now the site of Istana Firuz) on February 20, 1952, and was delivered by the obstetrician Dr. Megat Khas. From a young age, she was raised in a palace environment steeped in strong Malay customs and traditions. She is also known by the affectionate nickname "Ku Dottie" among family and friends.

Excellent Education

Raja Nazhatul Shima's early education began from 1958 to 1962 at the Teluk Intan Girls' School and Convent School Teluk Intan. In 1963, when her father was appointed as the Sultan of Perak, she moved to Istana Iskandariah in Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar. There, she continued her studies at the Government English Girl's School (GEGS, now known as Sekolah Kebangsaan Datin Khadijah).

Her academic excellence is undeniable. She successfully continued her studies at Tunku Kurshiah College in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, an educational institution renowned for its tradition of excellence. Afterwards, she pursued her studies at the Upper Chine School, Shanklin, Isle of Wight, England, up to the sixth form level.

Her interest in art and design led her to the Hornsey College of Art to take a Foundation Course in art. She later pursued studies in Interior Design at the Chelsea College of Art, London. Her success in this field was recognized with a L.C.A (London Certificate in Art and Design) diploma, and she became a member of the Society of Industrial Artists and Designers (S.I.A.D).

Personal and Family Life

On September 16, 1972, Raja Nazhatul Shima married the late Syed Omar Alsagoff, a well-known tycoon from Singapore. The wedding took place at Istana Iskandariah, and the couple was blessed with six children:

Yang Mulia Syed Saif Alsagoff (born November 1, 1974)
Yang Mulia Syed Ibrahim Firuzaman Alsagoff (born November 23, 1976)
Yang Mulia Dr. Syed Redzuan Alsagoff (born October 5, 1980)
Yang Mulia Syed Shareef Alsagoff (born June 25, 1983)
Yang Mulia Syed Idris Alsagoff (born December 28, 1986)
Yang Mulia Syed Iskandar Alsagoff (born December 2, 1988)

Syed Omar Alsagoff passed away on February 2, 2017. Subsequently, on January 12, 2019, Raja Nazhatul Shima married the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Jaafar. This marriage made her the Her Royal Highness Raja Puan Besar of Perak Darul Ridzuan, a title she holds to this day.

Contributions and Role in Society

As the Raja Puan Besar of Perak, Raja Nazhatul Shima plays a vital role in preserving Malay customs and culture, particularly in the state of Perak. She is also active in charitable and social activities, especially those involving the education and welfare of women and children.

She is also known as a highly educated person with a broad vision. Her educational background in art and interior design has contributed significantly to modernizing and preserving the architectural heritage of the palaces in Perak.

Titles and Awards

Throughout her life, Raja Nazhatul Shima has received various titles and awards in recognition of her contributions and services. Among them:

The Most Esteemed Royal Family Order of Johor, Second Class (D.K. II) in 2021.
The Most Gallant Order of Cura Si Manja Kini (S.P.C.M.) which carries the title Dato' Seri in 1975.
The Sri Sultan Ahmad Shah Pahang Order (S.S.A.P.) which carries the title Dato' Sri in 2018.
Justice of the Peace (J.P.)

An Enduring Legacy

Raja Nazhatul Shima is not just a royal figure, but also a symbol of excellence, dedication, and love. She has proven that a woman can achieve success in various fields, whether in education, family, or her role as a community leader.

Her life, full of challenges and successes, serves as an inspiration to many, especially the younger generation. She demonstrates that with determination and high spirit, nothing is impossible to achieve.

Conclusion

Raja Nazhatul Shima binti Almarhum Sultan Idris A’fifullah Shah is the best example of a leader who successfully combines tradition and modernity. She not only preserves royal heritage but also brings positive change through education and social contributions. Her life story is proof that true success comes from dedication, love, and commitment to the responsibilities one bears. May her legacy continue to be an inspiration to future generations.

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