King Harald of Norway, Europe's oldest monarch, underwent a successful procedure to implant a temporary pacemaker at Hospital Sultanah Maliha in Langkawi, Malaysia. The 87-year-old monarch was being treated for an infection during a private vacation on the resort island.
The Royal House of Norway confirmed that the pacemaker was necessary due to a low heart rate. Following the operation, King Harald is expected to be transported back to Norway in the coming days for further rest and recovery.
His personal physician, Bjørn Bendz, stated that the procedure was essential to ensure the king's safe return home. King Harald, who has faced health challenges in recent years, has been hospitalized multiple times for various treatments.
The Norwegian government is coordinating the transport arrangements, with the Norwegian Armed Forces handling the logistics for the king's return trip. Crown Prince Haakon has been fulfilling the king's duties during his hospitalization, as the monarch's role in Norway is primarily ceremonial.
King Harald, who ascended to the throne in 1991, has expressed no intention to abdicate despite his health issues. His marriage to a commoner and his compassionate leadership during national tragedies have endeared him to the Norwegian people.
The Scandinavian Airlines medical evacuation plane dispatched from Oslo arrived in Langkawi to facilitate King Harald's return. The monarch's recent health challenges, including a heart valve replacement in 2020, have raised concerns about his well-being.
While Europe's oldest reigning monarch continues his recovery, the Norwegian public remains supportive of King Harald and his contributions to the country's history and culture.
