Sir Muda Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien is the 29th and current Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan of Brunei since 1967, and the Prime Minister of Brunei since independence in 1984. He is the eldest son of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit. He was born on 15 July 1946 at Istana Darul Hana in Brunei Town.
Hassanal Bolkiah attended the Malay College Kuala Kangsar in Malaysia and the Victoria Institution in Kuala Lumpur. He then studied at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom. After completing his military training, he returned to Brunei and served as the Deputy Sultan from 1961 to 1967.
Upon the abdication of his father in 1967, Hassanal Bolkiah ascended to the throne as the 29th Sultan of Brunei. He was crowned on 1 August 1968. In 1984, Brunei gained independence from the United Kingdom and Hassanal Bolkiah became the Prime Minister of Brunei.
Hassanal Bolkiah is the longest-reigning monarch in the world. He is also one of the wealthiest monarchs in the world, with an estimated net worth of US billion. Hassanal Bolkiah is known for his extravagant lifestyle and his collection of luxury cars.
Hassanal Bolkiah is the patron of the Brunei Darussalam Islamic University and the Brunei Darussalam National Library. He is also the Chancellor of the University of Brunei Darussalam. Hassanal Bolkiah has received numerous awards and honours, including the Order of the Garter from the United Kingdom and the Grand Cross of the Order of the Nile from Egypt.
- Ethnic: Malay
- Date of birth: 15 July 1946
- Place of birth: Istana Darul Hana, Brunei Town
- Father: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III
- Mother: Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit
- Spouse: Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha
- Children: 12
- Religion: Islam
- Occupation: Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan of Brunei, Prime Minister of Brunei
- Years active: 1967–present
Emblem of Brunei
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The official residence and symbol of the Brunei President
10 Iconic Presidents Who Shaped Brunei’s History
Brunei, officially known as the Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace, is a small country located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is home to a long line of sultans who have served as the country’s leaders. Throughout Brunei’s history, there have been many presidents who have left their mark on the nation. Here are 10 of the most popular presidents from Brunei:
- Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II (1826-1828)
- Sultan Abdul Momin (1852-1885)
- Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin (1885-1906)
- Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II (1906-1924)
- Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin (1924-1950)
- Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin III (1950-1967)
- Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (1967-present)
- Sultan Abdul Hakeem (1996-1997)
- Sultan Saiful Rijal (2004)
- Sultan Abdul Mateen (2017-present)
1. Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II (1826-1828):
Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II was known for his efforts in strengthening the administration of Brunei during his short reign. He implemented various reforms, including the establishment of a central government and the introduction of a new legal system.
2. Sultan Abdul Momin (1852-1885):
Sultan Abdul Momin was known for his commitment to education and modernization. He established schools and encouraged the study of Malay literature and Islamic teachings. He also introduced modern administrative systems and improved infrastructure in Brunei.
3. Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin (1885-1906):
Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin focused on developing the economy of Brunei during his reign. He promoted trade and established closer ties with foreign powers, including British and Dutch traders. His efforts led to economic growth and increased prosperity for the country.
4. Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II (1906-1924):
Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II is remembered for his support of education and culture. He sponsored the establishment of schools and encouraged the preservation of Bruneian traditions and heritage. He also modernized the legal system and introduced new legislation.
5. Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin (1924-1950):
Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin’s reign was marked by efforts to modernize Brunei and improve living conditions for its people. He introduced healthcare reforms, improved infrastructure, and promoted economic development. He also encouraged sports and recreation as part of his vision for a healthy society.
6. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin III (1950-1967):
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin III is widely regarded as one of Brunei’s most influential leaders. His reign saw significant advancements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He also played an important role in shaping Brunei’s foreign policy and strengthening its international standing.
7. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (1967-present):
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is the current and longest-serving president of Brunei. He has been instrumental in transforming Brunei into a modern and prosperous nation. Under his leadership, Brunei has seen economic diversification, improved healthcare and education, and increased international recognition.
8. Sultan Abdul Hakeem (1996-1997):
Sultan Abdul Hakeem served as the president of Brunei for a brief period. During his time in office, he prioritized environmental conservation and sustainable development. He initiated several programs aimed at preserving Brunei’s natural resources and promoting eco-tourism.
9. Sultan Saiful Rijal (2004):
Sultan Saiful Rijal served as the interim president of Brunei for a short time in 2004. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen Brunei’s economy and attract foreign investment. He introduced policies to promote entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities for Brunei’s youth.
10. Sultan Abdul Mateen (2017-present):
Sultan Abdul Mateen, the youngest son of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, is a popular figure in Brunei. He has been actively involved in social and charitable works, particularly in the fields of education and youth development. He represents the younger generation of Brunei’s leaders and is seen as a role model for the country’s youth.
