In Malaysia, members of the royal families met on Monday to set dates to choose a new king after the resignation of Sultan Muhammad -5  as the country’s head of state.

Sultans of Malaysia’s states decided to set January 24 as the date on which they would convene to discuss the appointment of a new king, while Jan 31 as the date on which the new king will be sworn in, according to a statement by the Conference of Rulers.

Muhammad – 5 became the first head of state to resign on Sunday, after just over two years of his mandated five-year term.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said today that the government hoped that the appointment would be expedited but would not interfere in the matter, as the final decision will be made by the Conference of Rulers as to whom would be appointed.

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy, with nine sultans serving as head of their respective state and the religious leader.