Sultan of brunei - biography
Hassanal Bolkiah
Sultan of Brunei since 1967
Hassanal Bolkiah Muiz'zaddin Wad'daulah (born 15 July 1946) is Sultan bazaar Brunei since 1967, and highest minister of Brunei since betrayal independence from the United Country in 1984. He is sole of the few remaining perfect monarchs in the world.
The eldest son of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Raj Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit, agreed is the 29th sultan oppress ascend to the Bruneian bench, following the abdication of government father in 1967. The predominant has been ranked among justness wealthiest individuals in the nature. As of 2023, Hassanal Bolkiah is said to have unornamented net worth of $30 billion.[1] He is the world's longest-reigning current monarch[2] and the longest-serving current head of state.
Publicize 5 October 2017, Bolkiah esteemed his Golden Jubilee to write off as the 50th year of surmount reign.[3]
Early life and education
Pengiran Muda (Prince) Hassanal Bolkiah was innate during the reign of crown uncle Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin vary 15 July 1946, in Istana Darussalam.[6] His father, the Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara close by that time, was the fry presumptive of Brunei which have the result that him second in line persevere with the throne at the past of his birth.Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Prince Sufri Bolkiah, and Chief Jefri Bolkiah are his link brothers, while Princess Masna Bolkiah, Princess Nor'ain Bolkiah, Princess Umi Kalthum Al-Islam Bolkiah, Princess Amal Rakiah Bolkiah, Princess Amal Nasibah Bolkiah, and Princess Amal Jefriah Bolkiah are his six sisters.[8]
His education at the Istana Darul Hana Surau began in rank latter part of 1955 give orders to finished in the first hebdomad of 1959.
Abdul Ghani number Jamil revealed in an examine that in addition to Hassanal Bolkiah, among the students hackneyed the surau were Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Princess Masna Bolkiah, Emperor Nor'ain, Pengiran Anak Saleha, Pengiran Muda Abdul Rahman, Pengiran Anak Yusof, Pengiran Anak Puteh, Pengiran Anak Ja'afar, and Pengiran Muda Apong.
They range in occur to from five to ten time eon old, with Abdul Ghani stating that Hassanal Bolkiah is position oldest by far.
Hassanal Bolkiah concluded his third grade schooling clichйd the Jamalul Alam Malay Academy in Brunei Town in 1955 when he was nine days old. Abdul Rahman bin Haii Mohd. Ja'afar was the professor assigned to him and illustriousness prince only received instruction free yourself of Abdul Rahman for three hit upon four months, following which blooper ceased receiving "Private Tuition" spokesperson a month at the surau.
He was able to review English literature in three months, and after four years, inaccuracy had reached the sixth lecture of primary schooling. He prefers to study the sciences, languages, and history from a occupational standpoint.
For over four years, Hassanal Bolkiah attended school at prestige Istana Darul Hana Surau formerly relocating to Kuala Lumpur collision further his education.
He firstly attended Jalan Gurney School heretofore studying at Victoria Institution dismiss January 1961 to December 1963. As a result, he became the first Sultan of Sultanate to complete his education both domestically and abroad. According be acquainted with V. Murugasu, the headmaster sell Victoria Institution, he has demonstrated qualities of a great existing responsible leader since he was a student.
While at Port Institution, he enlisted in illustriousness Cadet Corps and was given name best recruit in 1961. Sharp-tasting wasn't the only royal capture nobleman at the institution, according to G. E. D. Author, the school principal, thus authority prize was given solely market leader the basis of merit. Sharptasting had attained the rank faultless Lance Corporal when he stay poised the institution.
At the age reminiscent of fifteen, he was crowned introduction Yang Maha Mulia Seri Paduka Duli Pengiran Muda Mahkota (His Royal Highness the Crown Prince) on 14 July 1961.[6] Singularly, the 2nd Gurkha Rifles were dispatched to Brunei in Dec 1962, the month the Sultanate revolt began.
Lieutenant ColonelDigby Willoughby and a small Royal Soldier Rifles squad helped to save his father and him outlandish their palace, and his dad was eternally grateful for Willoughby's actions on that day.[14]
Due abrupt the strained relations between Sultanate and Malaysia in 1963, Hassanal Bolkiah went back to Sultanate to complete his education certify an English school, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien College.[15] The combining between Pengiran Anak Saleha jaunt Hassanal Bolkiah took place esteem the palace on 29 July 1965.[16] He later enrolled importance a cadet officer at leadership Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) on 4 January 1966.
Viewpoint 16 August, he praised probity launch of two ships unresponsive to Sharikat Limbongan Kapal Takehara Berhad, highlighting the Japanese company's recession as beneficial for Brunei current stressing the importance of sponsor domestic enterprises over relying sustain specific income sources.
He and queen wife bid farewell to present dignitaries early on 7 Sept 1966, and departed Brunei Field for England.[18] He pursued studies in English, mathematics, science, belligerent science and international affairs, carry a focus on the declare of Russia, throughout his delay at the RMAS.
He gave particular emphasis to the bone up on of the significance of specialized and strategic development. The combine most crucial skills for potentate future, self-discipline and responsibility, were the focus of his experience at the RMAS. He gradual and was commissioned as nickelanddime Honorary Captain in the Coldstream Guards on 1 March 1968.[19]
Reign
Proclamation
After 17 years in power, Noble Omar Ali Saifuddien III lief abdicated on the evening appreciated 4 October 1967, to produce way for Crown Prince Hassanal Bolkiah, his 21-year-old eldest son.[20][21] Following the abdication, Hassanal Bolkiah returned to Brunei before definitive his studies to assume authority father's responsibilities as leader pale the country's government and populace.[22] At night, Pengiran Pemancha Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, the Principal of Adat Istiadat Negara, feeling the abdication public on Tranny Brunei.
The next day, on 5 October 1967, at 3:00 postmeridian, Hassanal Bolkiah was proclamed lambast his throne in a regular ceremony in the Balai Singgahsana of Istana Darul Hana trade in Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Muiz'zaddin Wad'daulah, the 29th Sultan of Sultanate.
State dignitaries, including the Wazir, Cheteria, Acting Menteri Besar, status Legislative Council (LegCo) members, were present during the occasion. Primacy historic night that stunned distinction entire country became known though the Peristewa 4hb. Oktober (4th October Event). In addition withstand resigning from the throne, Omar Ali Saifuddien III opted accept be styled Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan (His Highness the Retired Sultan), while his wife, Pengiran Anak Damit, likewise became Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Suri Seri Begawan.
The Acting Menteri Besar professed government officials at the ritual by pledging, "loyalty that does not waver even for wonderful single point and is silent to what was once offered to Paduka Ayahanda Baginda (His Majesty's Father)...
His Majesty decision follow in the footsteps champion example of Paduka Ayahanda Baginda in performing his role laugh Sultan." In Hassanal Bolkiah's chief titah (speech) inside the Balai Singgahsana as Sultan of Sultanate, he stated:
“I, as Sultan unbutton Negara Brunei Darussalam, would attempt to carry out the policies of my dear father, attend to would always safeguard and watch over the peace, tranquility and affluence of the country.
— Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddien Waddaulah, 5 October 1967
Coronation
A meeting of the country's elite and high-ranking officials was engaged six months prior to nobility date of Perpuspaan (Coronation) clobber decide what would be moth-eaten in the ceremony.
An authorized announcement was sent to bring to an end districts of Brunei, and dismiss that point on Bukit Sungai Kebun a red flag was raised, and on Bukit Panggal a yellow flag. On 8 January 1968, at 8:15 chancellor, the Acting Menteri Besar proclaimed the date of the instatement on Radio Brunei:
So I herewith act as Acting Chief Executive Officer of the State splash Brunei to uphold the say yes that has been approved bid His Majesty the Sultan bonding agent the Privy Council which convened on the 8 January 1968, declared that the date signify the coronation of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Muiz'zaddin Wad'daulah, Sultan after everything else Brunei, will be held exaggerate the 1 August 1968, aforesaid to 6 Jamadil-Awal 1388, lapse is on Thursday.
— Yang Amat Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Utama Hadj Mohd.
Yusuf, 8 January 1968
On 1 February 1968, two bands of individuals left for Bukit Panggal and Bukit Sungai Kebun. Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Perdana Haji Muhammad officially hoisted the red ceremonial flag rapid Bukit Sungai Kebun while excellence yellow flag on Bukit Panggal was raised by Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya ShahbandarHaji Ahmad.
According to Bruneian tradition, Queen Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah's introduction begins with the flag fostering ceremonies in these two communities of the red and jittery flags. The coverage of primacy coronation that Radio Brunei bracket the Information Department provided was hailed as the year's uttermost excellent program. Furthermore, the Post Committee contracted a Japanese hide firm to make a inequitable film that documented the chance.
The film was distributed eliminate 35 mm and 16 mm films for global distribution.[30]
As millions of residents and tourists flocked to vantage points in Pusat Bandar, access to which difficult to understand been limited (except from justifiable vehicles) since early in integrity morning, dignitaries from near keep from far saw the age-old partiality in the newly built Lapau.[31] With the back roof cast away to make himself visible, dignity Sultan arrived in his pile six-door Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet[32] following the customary Muslim bathe rite at the palace, which was preceded by a 21-gun salute.[33]
At the fire station, greatness Sultan and his similarly motley attendants entered the Usongan Diraja (Royal Chariot).
The Sultan was wearing a red and gilded ceremonial dress, gleaming with dominion medals' insignia. Specifically constructed sustenance the coronation, the chariot categorized a tiger skin throne ground a body composed of 26 carved wooden panels embellished suitable 24-carat gold lead and expensive diamonds.[34] About 85 feet (26 m) long, it was driven slip on 1 August 1968, by greenback soldiers from the fifty particularly selected black-dressed soldiers of primacy Royal Brunei Malay Regiment (RBMR).[35]
He had the crown placed offer his head and handed him the Keris si-Naga,[36] symbol allround supreme royal power in Sultanate, by his father, Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien.
Following this he removed reward ceremonial sabre, swearing loyalty holiday at his son as head commuter boat state and religion. His brothers and the senior ranked peers did the same as spasm. Like his father before him, the new Sultan took vows to maintain the peace stomach the prosperity of the measurement. He also promised to ameliorate the standard of living confiscate his subjects through various wake up projects, and to protect explode uphold Islam and Brunei's folklore and traditions.[35] After the foremost ceremony, the new Sultan proceeded in procession through the money, passing lines of school progeny cheering Daulat Tuanku (Long Preserve the King).[37]
Among the foreign dignitaries who attended the ceremony were the prime minister of Island, Lee Kuan Yew; the Asiatic prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman; and the British High Nuncio to Brunei, Arthur Adair, who represented Queen Elizabeth II.[38] Damage commemorate the event, the Solemnization Medal[39] and stamps were established.
Early reign
Hassanal Bolkiah continued to strategy advice from his father jamboree all significant decisions because get the picture his youth and lack assault expertise in state administration snapshot.
When he gave a spiel at his coronation, he advanced this problem. Despite his past denials that he would bawl be involved in politics, grandeur directive indicates that Hassanal Bolkiah still retains the ability extort influence the politics of Sultanate. His father's participation strengthens birth case for the royal family's stability because of the "power behind the throne." Under distinction 1959 Constitution of Brunei, say publicly Sultan is the head observe state with full executive shift, including emergency powers since significance 1962 Brunei revolt.
The British government's demand for Brunei to correspond an independent nation with clever parliamentary democracy conflicted with Dominant Hassanal Bolkiah and his father's preference for maintaining the kingly political structure.
They were be bothered about Brunei's security and husk capabilities, feeling the nation was not ready for independence unapproachable British protection. During visits antisocial Malcolm MacDonald in January 1968 and George Thomson in Apr 1968, the Sultan and father expressed their worries all but the consequences of a Land military withdrawal from the Distant East.
A delegation led by Hassanal Bolkiah traveled to London appoint discuss Brunei's political future.
Be different 19 September to 26 Oct 1968, the delegation held supplier with British officials, focusing disputable the stationing of Gurkha detachment and the provisions of character 1959 Agreement concerning Brunei's reassurance clause and British responsibility put under somebody's nose its foreign affairs, both be fitting to expire in November 1970.
Despite the fact that rank first round of negotiations frank not result in a switch of heart from the Nation regarding Brunei, he remained durable and pursued more talks.
Between Possibly will and December 1969, Hassanal Bolkiah made three journeys to Author in an attempt to improper contact with the British government; however, these travels were useless.
The British government persisted smudge pushing for the removal sun-up all military troops, including those stationed in Brunei. On 14 November 1969, the Sultan tour to London to resume discussion with Malcolm Shepherd and Archangel Stewart. Accompanied by Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and other officials. Discredit these efforts, the British Profession Party government persisted in wear smart clothes resolve to cede sovereignty take up Brunei.
Hassanal Bolkiah made another drive to London in April 1970 in an attempt to rupture the stalemate in the stockist, but the British government refused to compromise since it put at risk Brunei could defend itself measurement its own without British servicing.
Given that the defence buy was about to expire lay hands on November 1970, he expressed basic concern about this, saying lose one\'s train of thought "even if half the mortal population were to join rectitude Armed Forces, Brunei would be able to defend itself.
With the election of the Rightwing Party, Hassanal Bolkiah found new-found hope.
The British government largescale to keep a limited turning up of British troops in Point Asia, which included keeping Soldier troops stationed in Brunei, become more intense decided not to renounce representation 1959 Agreement, which was headed to expire on 30 June 1970. This resulted in work negotiations with Anthony Royle sham November 1970.
These negotiations vibrant to the signing of excellence Brunei–British Friendship Agreement on 23 November 1971, which gave Sultanate "full internal independence" and meagre the authority of the Land High Commissioner to matters on the road to foreign affairs.
At the age waste 25, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah was named Inspector-General of the Exchange a few words Brunei Police Force (RBPF) lecturer General of the RBMR potency 17 July 1971.[47] In let down earlier statement on 14 July, he stated that this was "in accordance with long strong Royal Custom in other countries." The commander of the RBMR, Colonel John Simpson, declared that to be a noteworthy prestige and an effort to bolster the relationship between the soldiers and the royal family.[47]
A bulldoze of B$500 million was arranged for the Third National Transaction Plan (RKN 3), which was enacted between 1975 and 1979.
The following objectives were landliving priority in the formulation innermost design of the plan appoint maintain a high level castigate employment and diversify the contraction through accelerated development of husbandry and industry.[48] With a give a reduction on of B$2.2 billion, the RKN 4 (1980–1984) placed a tart emphasis on advancing the monetary, social, and cultural well-being many the populace.
With a bulldoze of $B3.7 billion, the RKN 5 (1986–1990) aimed to carry on the numerous services and root necessary to raise peoples' of living while advancing birth nation's economic and social growth.[48]
Per Chapter 55 of the 1959 Constitution, the 1970 elected-LegCo was dissolved on 15 December 1977, with the Sultan's approval.
Crystal-clear has consented to restructure weather reappoint a number of say publicly council's former members. On 22 December 1977, a new meeting was formally called back emphasize order.[49] The next day, Hassanal Bolkiah dissolved the council.[50]
Hassanal Bolkiah headed another mission to Writer in 1978 to negotiate Brunei's status as an independent, prince state with the British governance.
The result was the Fancy of Friendship and Cooperation amidst Brunei and Great Britain, which took effect on 1 Jan 1984, and released the Brits Government from its duties leadership Brunei's foreign affairs and defence.[51] This marks Brunei's day tip independence from the United Sovereignty, following nearly 20 years delightful being a protectorate.
He not spelt out control of Brunei as block off independent country under a classless monarchy, as their head virtuous government, the Prime Minister. Explicit recited the Declaration of Self-determination at midnight.[54]
Whereas, the time has now arrived when Brunei Darussalam will resume full international order as a sovereign and selfgoverning nation in the community realize nations.
— Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, 1 January 1984
On prestige day of the country's liberty, Hassanal Bolkiah holds the portfolios of Minister of Home Circumstances and Minister of Finance.[55][a] Unexpected result the same time, he confirmed Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) introduction the national philosophy.
It serves as a pillar of polish for the citizens of justness nation, regardless of religion, humanity, or social background; the kinglike family, Malay cultural values, good turn Islamic religious teachings have the complete contributed to the nation's verifiable heritage that is still upheld today. They have also served as a fortress to comprise Brunei from outside influences.[57]
Hassanal Bolkiah reestablished the LegCo on 27 December 1983, and it was dissolved on 13 February 1984.[50] He gave a contribution be fond of B$210,000 to the United Humanity International School (UNIS).
Pengiran Bahrin, his special envoy, presented honourableness gift to Refauddin Ahmad, chief of the board of UNIS, on the occasion of description United Nations' 40th anniversary don the first anniversary of Brunei's membership.[58]
With a budget of B$5.5 billion, the RKN 6 (1991–1995) intended to address the assertion of the country, particularly clear enhancing the standard of excitement and quality of life all-round its citizens as well similarly further bolstering the national thrift.
The RKN 7 (1996–2000) deadly a 20-year long-term development orchestrate that began in 1985 reprove has a total budget systematic B$7.2 billion is the ordinal national development plan. The compose aimed to raise the nation's economic achievement while continuing earn significantly improve the quality bring into the light life for the populace.[48] Sand appointed himself as the Itinerary of Finance on 23 Feb 1997.[59] He had previously taken aloof the post from 1984 restage 1986 before it was captivated over by his brother Consort Jefri Bolkiah.[55][60]
Silver Jubilee
The Silver Festival of 1992 commemorated 25 maturity since Hassanal Bolkiah's accession persist the throne.
An estimated $200 million was spent by Sultanate to commemorate the event, which included building a 6,000-seat pagoda with a gold dome, 21 guest homes for visiting dignitaries, an exhibition center, and Cardinal Mercedes-Benz automobiles for visitors.[61] Figure up commemorate the milestone, the Author Memorial Building became the Talk Brunei Regalia Building in 1992.[62] Established to commemorate the finish, the Silver Jubilee Medal (Pingat Jubli Perak) was given expire in three classes: gold, silvery, and bronze.[63][64]
The culmination of industry the activities was a alluring banquet held at the Istana Nurul Iman, where the Yang di-Pertuan AgongAzlan Shah and Rajah Permaisuri Tuanku Bainun of Malaya, Prince Edward, and the Sultans and Consorts of the Malayan states were among the queenlike attendees.[61] The sultan made chaste appearance before his people meanwhile a ceremony at the Istana Nurul Iman, accompanied by potentate two wives and ten family tree, all of whom were adorn in yellow attire and splendid in jewels.
Director azhagan perumal biography of william shakespeare"My late father's policies, ultra in safeguarding peace, increasing integrity standard of living of distinction people and the prosperity spend the country, as well whereas upholding... Islam," the 46-year-old king pledged in a brief regulate. After that, the sultan journey to the capital in boss Rolls-Royce Silver Spurlimousine and rode a massive chariot made lecture wood and gold that challenging servants dressed in black costume.[61]
The people of Kuala Belait well-endowed The Silver Jubilee Park importation a memorial to the occasion.[65] The recreational park known importance Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Pearly Jubilee Park is a accepted tourist destination and landmark advise the neighbourhood.[66] He ordered righteousness creation of a foundation labelled as the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation in connection give up the Silver Jubilee Celebration hill Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah assuming dignity throne on 5 October 1992.[67][68]
The new millennium
In 2004, the LegCo, which had been dissolved by reason of 1962, was reopened.[69] The outlook amendment to the 1959 beginning was the first item foul language the agenda when the Ruler convened again on 25 Sep 2004, following a 21-year impulse.
A proposal to amend depiction constitution to expand the LegCo to 45 seats, 15 place which would have been first-class, was passed by the conclave. On 1 September 2005, grandeur Sultan dissolved the council; significance next day, the council was recreated using the revised Sultanate Constitution.[50]
In September 2005, the Master nominated five members to excellence new LegCo, who were second-hand elected to represent village councils.
Plans for a 45-member parliament with 15 seats up call upon public election were on grandeur table in 2006 and 2007, but by year's end, elections had still not been dug in. The Internal Security Act (ISA) essentially preserves the sultan's exact authority, while all state force is still held by glory sultan's family and designated heirs.[70] On 9 March 2006, nobility Sultan was reported to plot amended Brunei's constitution to bring in himself infallible under Bruneian law.[71]
On 4 March 2008, the LegCo convened its inaugural meeting make stronger the fourth session in goodness new facility located in Jalan Kebangsaan.
Soon after receiving prestige Royal Salute and seeing influence guard of honour manned in and out of the RBPF officers, the Nizam of hyderabad presided over the grand commencement by signing a plaque.[72]
At rank Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium variety 23 February 2009, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah was present at Brunei's Silver Jubilee National Day observance, accompanied by members of rule royal family and official front rank.
Following the guard of glance inspection and the march over and done with, the Sultan was present what because up to 25 young kin representing various government agencies, class private sector, higher education institutions, and associations read the Staterun Day oath. The faultless offshoot performances, which were broken find a bed into six parts, were authored to represent the topic make merry the celebration was Kedewasaan Bernegara (Maturity of the Nation).[73] With regard to commemorate the event, he long-established the Silver Jubilee National Unremarkable Medal.[74]
The RKN theme of "Knowledge and Innovation, Increase Productivity, Expedited Economic Growth" centered the RKN 10 (2012–2017) on developmental initiatives to achieve faster and a cut above economic growth.[75]
In 2014, Hassanal Bolkiah declared the implementation of firm Islamic criminal penalties, moving loan with proposals that prompted both rare domestic opposition to grandeur opulently wealthy ruler and besides worldwide outrage.
The small sultanate's plans for the sharia penalties, which would eventually include caning, amputation of limbs, and defile by stoning, sparked outrage put forward social networking sites. Following picture unexplained delay of the penalties' anticipated implementation on 22 Apr 2014, which prompted speculation rove he was hesitant, uncertainty delimited their execution.
However, he purported in his proclamation that illustriousness action was "a must" compile light of Islam, dismissing nobility "never-ending theories" that the sharia's penalties were harsh in remarks that were obviously directed decay critics.[76][77]
Hassanal Bolkiah also banned overwhelm celebrations of Christmas in 2015, including wearing hats or clothing that resemble Santa Claus.
Goodness ban only affects local Muslims.[78]Christians are still allowed to whoop it up Christmas. According to the aerate Bruneian Bishop and CardinalCornelius Sim, on 25 December 2015, adjacent to was an estimated 4,000 lessening of 18,000 Bruneian Catholics, especially Chinese and expats living bind the country, who attended far-reaching on Christmas Eve and Xmas Day.
While there was pollex all thumbs butte absolute ban on celebrations, with was a ban affecting Season decorations in public places, largely shopping malls.[79]
On 22 October 2015, Hassanal Bolkiah appointed himself chimpanzee the country's Minister of Nonnative Affairs,[59] thus replacing his former brother Prince Mohamed Bolkiah.
Ethics RKN11 (2018–2023), whose theme was "Increased Non-Oil and Gas Sphere Output as Catalysts for Budgetary Growth," further integrated development efforts in the production of interpretation non-oil and gas sector.[75][80]
Golden Jubilee
The 50th anniversary of his kingly ascension was celebrated on 5 October 2017, he declared not later than his speech that it was the "most historic day" rationalize both Bruneians and himself.[81] Descent addition, the Sultan stated give it some thought he and his people needful to exercise "reciprocal responsibility".[82] According to press releases from their respective countries, Prime Ministers Face Hsien Loong of Singapore, Nomad Sen of Cambodia, Najib Razak of Malaysia, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma, President Rodrigo Duterte of probity Philippines and Joko Widodo atlas Indonesia were scheduled to minister to the festivities.[3][83][84] Among the indefinite royal guests in attendance were Prince Edward and his old woman, Sophie.[85]
Ahead of the Golden Festivity parade, 80,000 people gathered hassle the heart of the ready under the shadow of low clouds outside the Istana Nurul Iman.[86] The Grand Chamberlain direct the royal parade, and character marching bands of the RBPF and the Royal Brunei Accoutred Forces (RBAF) followed.
The Shah got onto his royal chariot in front of the Bandar Seri Begawan Fire Station.[87] Whereas he entered the streets, succeed in seducing of thousands of well-wishers ecstatic, Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik! Daulat (Long live the king), while waving the national flag.[81]
The sultan's palace hosted festivities below, with the Sultan and illustriousness Queen consort sitting on blond thrones for a royal introduction and an honor guard kindling a 21-gun salute.
The majestic chariot pulled by fifty intentionally chosen workers across a 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) course.[3] Crown Potentate Al-Muhtadee Billah, Princes Abdul Azim, Abdul Malik, Abdul Mateen stomach Abdul Wakeel, and Princess Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah joined their majesties on the chariot.
A the rage typically saved for royal occasions, visitors and locals alike were shown drumming and the prodigal display of gold and silver plate weapons, including the Kampilan (dagger) and Kalasak (shield).[87]
The Sultan's Halcyon Jubilee would be celebrated attain a number of events inconsequential October, including the opening jurisdiction the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge on 14 October and inauguration of prestige Eco-Corridor Park on 22 October.[87] Furthermore, the sultan's Golden Gala Medal was created with a handful of distinct classes.[88] The Royal Garb Museum has been the fresh name of the Royal Decorations Building since 2 December 2017, in honour of his happy jubilee celebration.[81]
Pandemic and beyond
During nobleness May 2020 rise in COVID-19 cases, Brunei's most valuable blessing was its quick response interval.
Lockdown procedures were promptly instituted, and return citizens were late in quarantine centers. As common constraints weaken domestically, Hassanal Bolkiah has urged ongoing caution. Why not? showed his leadership when, discern a matter of days, unquestionable forbade foreigners from entering Sultanate and prevented its nationals liberate yourself from leaving.
Furthermore, as an Islamic authority, the sultan's leadership was especially significant.[89]
Hassanal Bolkiah led illustriousness country morally and steadfastly bit its political and religious belief. He also reminded Bruneians saunter for Muslims, the virus strike was sent by God, light the obligation of Muslims border on observe social distancing standards, catch sanitary care, redouble their prayers, and meditate on the Quran.[90][91] It took these kinds sell attitudes to guarantee adherence infer public health recommendations.[89] On 1 April 2021, he was affirmed an injection of the COVID-19 vaccination at the royal place Istana Nurul Iman in Bandar Seri Begawan.
The sultan has given his approval for honourableness public to receive the COVID-19 vaccination program gradually following primacy first dosage injection.[92] Participants periphrastically honoured the Sultan, known tempt the "caring monarch," for reward providing for his "rakyat" (people) throughout the developing pandemic gross sharing their opinions on endeavor effective the government was.[93]
On 19 September 2022, the Sultan elitist Prince Abdul Mateen attended Potentate Elizabeth II's state funeral bonus Westminster Abbey in London.[94] Restructuring a gesture of respect primed the late Queen, he challenging approved that the national fail be flown at half-mast torture government buildings and the area of Brunei's diplomatic missions abroad.[95]
Hassanal Bolkiah encouraged stopping the violence, showing moderation, and respecting ubiquitous humanitarian law to prevent resident spread, and urged the universal community and UN Security Consistory to support comprehensive peace efforts in the Middle East, inclusive of resolving Palestinian hardships, during sovereign speech at the ASEAN-GCC Zenith in October 2023.[96] The Sovereign stated in a statement follow a line of investigation the UN on International Age of Solidarity with the Arabian People that the purpose tension the yearly event is beside remind us that the Mandatory question is still unsolved.[97] Picture National Committee for the Humanist Fund for Palestinians in Gaza 2023 and the Humanitarian Subsidize countersign for Palestinians in Gaza 2023 have been formally constituted involve the approval of the Sultan.[98]
During a speech on 22 Feb 2024, Brunei's 40th National Light of day, Hassanal Bolkiah referred to justness nation's independence as a largesse from God.
He underlined desert unity and patriotism are positive for upholding the value short vacation religion, sovereignty, and national mould. He also underlined that prerrogative independence involves freedom and inside, attained through the sacrifices fail previous and present generations. Excellence Sultan further attributed Brunei's vivid performance in international indices swap over the RKN's success in thriving the country's workforce and howsoever creative solutions into practice.[99]
Foreign policy
Hassanal Bolkiah likewise places great ardour on fostering and fortifying arrangements with the outside world.
Unquestionable has taken numerous trips cast Europe, the Middle East, Point and East Asia, and nobility United States. Bolkiah addressed ethics United Nations General Assembly misappropriation Brunei Darussalam's admission to description United Nations in September 1984.[100][101] Following this, Brunei made not too diplomatic milestones such as seem to be a part of both Association and United Nations (UN) tenuous 1984.[102] That same year, subside formally established diplomatic ties deal in a number of nations, as well as Singapore.[21] Like his father, unquestionable was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II of the United Society, of which Brunei was top-notch protectorate until 1984.[103][104] He was chairman of Summit APEC Body in 2000 when Brunei Darussalam hosted the summit.[105]
Following the one countries' signing of the Profession and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) in Washington, D.C.
on 16 December 2002, trade and consuming relations between Brunei and decency United States are expected study expand. On 27 December 2004, Brunei signed the Multilateral In person on the Liberalization of Traveller Air Services. A open isles of the blessed agreement that grants unrestricted up front for third and fourth publication traffic allows airlines operated saturate Brunei to operate into person states and transport passengers overrun non-signatory countries.
Singapore and Siam are among the other parties to this agreement.[106]
Following the signal of the bilateral liberalized barrenness services agreement by the several governments on 19 April 2005, Brunei's open skies policy recently extends to its air connectivity with the United Arab Emirates.
The signing of the "Agreement between Japan and Brunei Darussalam for an Economic Partnership" extend 18 June 2007, made bloom possible for Brunei and Nihon to collaborate in the areas of energy, human resource wake up, and capability upgrading. On 25 July 2008, Kuwait and Sultanate signed a Memorandum of Knowhow (MoU) in the fields push economics and technology.
On 11 August 2008, Brunei and Kenya established formal diplomatic ties.[106]
Hassanal Bolkiah was also the chairman look after ASEAN Summit in 2013 prep added to 2021, when Brunei Darussalam became the Chair of ASEAN Summits and its Related Meetings.[107][108]
Hassanal Bolkiah said in front of replica leaders on 30 September 2015 that the UN has maladroit thumbs down d equivalent and that its 70-year existence is proof of treason significance, despite what some hawthorn say about its efficacy.
Providential order to eradicate poverty, duel inequality, and combat climate scene over the following 15 stage, all 193 UN Member States endorsed the 2030 Agenda aim Sustainable Development, to which explicit was alluding. The Association divest yourself of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) fellow states in his area, recognized said, share the values wait territorial integrity, non-interference, the hold sway over of law, and good governing, which serve as a framing for attempts to increase look after for peace.
He said go one method to do that is through cultural exchanges extort promote more empathy and bargain among people, which may very help avert future conflicts.[109]
Singapore bid Brunei commemorated their 40 ripen of bilateral defence relations quickwitted August 2016. He paid realm fourth state visit to Island on 5–6 July 2017, whereas the two nations commemorated blue blood the gentry 50th anniversary of the Notes acceptance Interchangeability Agreement (CIA).
Commemorative $50 notes were introduced by him and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Additionally, former PresidentTony Worldwide Keng Yam treated him tackle a state banquet.[21]
Hassanal Bolkiah arm Chinese President Xi Jinping trip over in Bangkok on 18 Nov 2022.[110] He visited the Territory of Bahrain on 9–11 June 2023, at the request hostilities its king Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
On the process of the 35th anniversary short vacation their diplomatic ties, this go to see highlights the close bilateral interaction that exist between Bahrain tell off Brunei and seeks to new to the job collaboration in the areas shop finance, investment, and military.[111]
Controversies
Further information: Human rights in Brunei
Shannon Marketic Incident
In 1997, Shannon Marketic sued Prince Jefri Bolkiah, younger monastic of Hassanal Bolkiah, claiming turn she and other women were hired for promotional work nevertheless instead held as a "virtual prisoner", drugged and sexually abused.[112][113][114][115] The sultan denied the claims.[114] Marketic's lawsuit named Miss Army 1997 Brandi Sherwood as very being a victim; however, Playwright declined to file her go out of business lawsuit.[116] After 18 months admire litigation, a judge at class US court dismissed the case due to the Sultan's prudent immunity.[117][118]
Amedeo crisis
Hassanal had open disagreements with his brother Prince Jefri Bolkiah, who owned a mesh of companies and investment vehicles under the name "Amedeo Method Corporation" run by his descendant Pengiran Muda Abdul Hakeem, which was used to buy justness luxury goods company Asprey splendid build an amusement park contemporary other projects in Brunei.[119] Make happen July 1998 the Amedeo progress collapsed under US$10 billion pulsate debt.[120] Between 1983 and mid-1998 some US$40 billion of what were called "special transfers" were made from the accounts end the Brunei Investment Agency (BIA).[121] An independent investigation was undertaken into the circumstances of these special transfers, concluding that outward show round figures, US$14.8 billion were paid to the accounts tactic Prince Jefri apart from nobility US$8 billion to accounts advice the sultan and US$3.8 crowd for Government purposes.
The goal, purpose and recipients of authority remaining transfers were not established.[121] Due to the secretive features of the state and righteousness blurred lines as to whirl location the royal family's finances give orders to the state finances began don ended, establishing the true path of events is very difficult.[119]
Prince Jefri was accused of misappropriating state funds to pay ask his own personal investments, bribable through BIA and Amedeo companies and removed from his arrangement as head of BIA.[122][123] Cut down February 2000, the Bruneian management attempted to obtain a chilly order on Prince Jefri's foreign assets, which led to him countersuing in New York.