King Harald of Norway gets pacemaker in Malaysian hospital after falling ill during vacation

King Harald V of Norway was implanted with a temporary pacemaker Saturday at a hospital in Malaysia's resort island of Langkawi, the Norwegian royal house said.

"The pacemaker was implanted due to a low heart rate," the Royal House of Norway said in a brief statement, adding that the procedure was successful.

Europe's oldest monarch was admitted to Sultanah Maliha Hospital earlier this week, while on vacation, with an infection.

COMPETITION: Win a $15,000 cruise holiday to see the Northern Lights

Following the operation, Harald, 87, would likely be transported back to Norway "within the next couple of days," the statement said.

"His Majesty is doing well under the circumstances but still requires rest. The procedure will make the return back home safer, according to His Majesty The King's personal physician, Bjørn Bendz," the palace in Oslo said.

READ MORE: Prince Harry granted permission to use evidence bombshell

In the meantime, Crown Prince Haakon has been installed as Regent and will be carrying out planned engagements at home.

The 87-year-old, who is Europe's oldest reigning monarch, has had several illnesses in recent months, raising concern about the head of state's health.

The royal house announced on Tuesday that Harald was hospitalised after he fell ill during a private vacation in Langkawi.

Norwegian media outlets said Harald travelled to the Malaysian resort island to celebrate his 87th birthday.

Two days before his birthday last week, Norwegian news agency NTB reported that the King was undertaking a private trip abroad together with his wife Queen Sonja, without specifying the destination or dates.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre previously said that he was "sad" to hear of the King's hospitalisation and wished him a "speedy recovery," NTB said.

Harald succeeded his father, King Olav V, to the throne in 1991, following his death aged 87.