Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah of Pahang announced his desire to upgrade Kampung Bantal in Ulu Tembeling to become the state’s first royal village on May 17, 2026, during an event involving medical equipment donations and aid to the needy [1]. The Sultan said, "I wish to make this village a special village, and if infrastructure improvements can be implemented, we will upgrade it into a royal village. This will be the first royal village in Pahang" [2].
The village holds deep significance for the Sultan’s family. Kampung Bantal is closely connected to many fond memories, and the name itself is significant. "Bantal is also the nickname given to the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tengku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah by her family during her childhood. Though far in distance, this village remains close to the heart," Al-Sultan Abdullah said [2].
To support the royal village status, the Sultan stressed the need for improved infrastructure in Kampung Bantal. He highlighted the importance of upgrading bridges and roads to enhance residents’ comfort and safety, as well as support transportation and local economic activities in the area [2, 1].
Al-Sultan Abdullah also encouraged residents, especially younger generations, to boost the local economy through agriculture and handicrafts. He advised them to maintain cleanliness and good health, saying that these are important for fulfilling acts of worship and living prosperously [2, 1].
The Sultan and Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah took part in a gotong-royong community cleaning session and visited a cucumber fertigation project at nearby Kampung Gusai as part of their engagement with local residents [2, 1].
Plans to develop Kampung Bantal as a royal village remain contingent on successful infrastructure improvements and continued community efforts.
