Hassanal Bolkiah facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Hassanal Bolkiah حسن البلقية‎
Hassanal Bolkiah in 2024
Sultan of Brunei
Reign	5 October 1967 – present
Coronation	1 August 1968
Predecessor	Omar Ali Saifuddien III
Heir apparent	Al-Muhtadee Billah
Other important roles Prime Minister of Brunei Incumbent Assumed office 1 January 1984 Deputy Al-Muhtadee Billah Preceded by Office established Minister of Foreign Affairs Incumbent Assumed office 22 October 2015 Serving with Lim Jock Seng (2005–2018) and Erywan Yusof (2018–) Preceded by Mohamed Bolkiah Minister of Defence Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Incumbent Assumed office 7 September 1986 Serving with Halbi Mohd Yussof (2018–2022; 2023–) Preceded by Omar Ali Saifuddien III Minister of Finance and Economy Incumbent Assumed office 23 February 1997 Serving with Abdul Rahman Ibrahim (2005–2018) and Amin Liew Abdullah (2018–) Preceded by Jefri Bolkiah In office 1 January 1984 – 20 October 1986 Preceded by Office established Succeeded by Jefri Bolkiah Minister of Home Affairs In office 1 January 1984 – 20 October 1986 Preceded by Office established Succeeded by Isa Ibrahim
Born	Hassanal Bolkiah Muiz'zaddin Wad'daulah (1946-07-15) 15 July 1946 (age 78) Istana Darussalam, Brunei Town, British Protectorate of Brunei (now Brunei)
Spouse	Pengiran Anak Saleha ​ (m. 1965)​ Mariam Abdul Aziz ​ ​ (m. 1981; div. 2003)​ Azrinaz Mazhar Hakim ​ ​ (m. 2005; div. 2010)​
Issue	List Princess Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah Princess Muta-Wakkilah Hayatul Bolkiah Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah Princess Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah Princess Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah Prince Abdul Azim Prince Abdul Malik Princess Azemah Ni'matul Bolkiah Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah Prince Abdul Mateen Prince Abdul Wakeel Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah
Full name Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien
House	Bolkiah
Father	Omar Ali Saifuddien III
Mother	Pengiran Anak Damit
Religion	Sunni Islam
Signature
Education	Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien College Royal Military Academy Sandhurst
Military career
Allegiance	Brunei
Service/branch	Royal Brunei Armed Forces
Years of active service	1965–present
Rank	Field Marshal
Awards	Full list

Hassanal Bolkiah Muiz'zaddin Wad'daulah (born 15 July 1946) is the current Sultan of Brunei. He has been Sultan since 1967. He also became the Prime Minister of Brunei when the country gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1984. He is one of the few absolute monarchs still in power today.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is the eldest son of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit. He is the 29th sultan to rule Brunei. He took the throne after his father stepped down in 1967. He is known as one of the richest people in the world. As of 2023, his wealth is estimated to be around $30 billion. He is also the longest-reigning current monarch and the longest-serving current head of state in the world. On 5 October 2017, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah celebrated his Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years as ruler.

Early Life and Education

Becoming a Prince and Student

Pengiran Muda (Prince) Hassanal Bolkiah was born on 15 July 1946, in Istana Darussalam. At the time, his uncle, Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin, was the ruler. His father was the heir presumptive, meaning Hassanal Bolkiah was second in line to the throne.

He first received private lessons at the surau of Istana Darul Hana. Later, he became the first Sultan of Brunei to get a full education in the West. In 1955, he started school at Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Malay School in Brunei Town, now called Bandar Seri Begawan. From 1961 to 1963, he attended Jalan Gurney School and Victoria Institution in Kuala Lumpur.

Becoming Crown Prince and Military Training

On 14 July 1961, at age fifteen, he was named The Pengiran Muda Mahkota (Crown Prince). In 1962, during the Brunei revolt, Gurkha troops helped rescue him and his father from their palace. His father was very thankful for their help.

In 1963, due to issues between Brunei and Malaysia, Hassanal Bolkiah returned to Brunei. He finished his education at Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien College, an English school. On 4 January 1966, he joined the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom as a cadet officer. He graduated from Sandhurst and became an Honorary Captain in the Coldstream Guards on 1 March 1968.

His Reign as Sultan

Becoming Sultan of Brunei

Accession to the throne of Hassanal Bolkiah in 1967

After 17 years as Sultan, Omar Ali Saifuddien III chose to step down on 4 October 1967. This made way for his 21-year-old eldest son, Crown Prince Hassanal Bolkiah. Hassanal Bolkiah returned to Brunei to take on his new role as leader.

The next day, 5 October 1967, Hassanal Bolkiah was officially declared the 29th Sultan of Brunei. This public ceremony took place at the Balai Singgahsana of Istana Darul Hana. Important officials were there to witness the event. The night his father stepped down became known as the Peristewa 4hb. Oktober (4th October Event).

In his first speech as Sultan, Hassanal Bolkiah promised to continue his father's policies. He also vowed to protect Brunei's peace, prosperity, and traditions.

The Coronation Ceremony

Official coronation portrait of Hassanal Bolkiah

Six months before the coronation, Brunei's nobles and officials met to plan the ceremony. On 8 January 1968, the date of the coronation was announced on Radio Brunei. It would be held on 1 August 1968.

The coronation began with traditional flag-raising ceremonies in two communities. Radio Brunei and the Information Department provided excellent coverage of the event. A Japanese film company also made a color film to record the special day.

Thousands of people gathered in Pusat Bandar to watch the historic event. The Sultan arrived in a special Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet. He then entered the Usongan Diraja (Royal Chariot) at the fire station.

Hassanal Bolkiah being borne by royal chariot on the day of his coronation, 1968

The chariot was specially built for the coronation. It had a tiger skin throne and was decorated with gold and diamonds. Fifty soldiers from the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment carried the chariot.

His father, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien, placed the crown on his head. He also gave him the Keris si-Naga, a symbol of royal power. The new Sultan promised to keep the nation peaceful and prosperous. He also vowed to improve the lives of his people and protect Islam and Brunei's customs. After the crowning, the Sultan rode through the capital. School children cheered, Daulat Tuanku (Long Live the King).

Many foreign leaders attended the ceremony. These included the prime ministers of Singapore and Malaysia, and the British High Commissioner. To remember the event, a Coronation Medal and special stamps were created.

Early Years of Leadership

In his early reign, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah continued to receive advice from his father. This helped him with important decisions for the country. Brunei's 1959 constitution states that the Sultan is the head of state. He has full executive power, including emergency powers since 1962.

Hassanal Bolkiah at a state ceremony in 1970

Brunei launched several National Development Plans to improve the country. These plans focused on creating jobs and growing the economy. They also aimed to improve the well-being of the people.

The British government wanted Brunei to become an independent nation. However, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and his father preferred to keep the monarchy. They were worried about Brunei's safety without British protection.

The Sultan traveled to London many times to discuss Brunei's future. He wanted to ensure that British troops, like the Gurkhas, would stay in Brunei. These discussions led to the Brunei–British Friendship Agreement in 1971. This agreement gave Brunei "full internal independence." It limited Britain's authority to foreign affairs.

Brunei's Independence

In 1978, Hassanal Bolkiah led a mission to London to negotiate Brunei's independence. This resulted in the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Brunei and Great Britain. On 1 January 1984, Brunei became an independent and sovereign state. This day is now Brunei's Independence Day.

At midnight, Hassanal Bolkiah read the Declaration of Independence. He then became the Prime Minister of Brunei. He also took on roles as Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Finance. On this day, he declared Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) as the national philosophy. This philosophy combines monarchy, Malay culture, and Islamic teachings. It helps protect Brunei's heritage and values.

Hassanal Bolkiah in the cockpit with King Hussein of Jordan, 1984

The Sultan continued to focus on national development plans. These plans aimed to improve living standards and strengthen the economy. In 1997, he appointed himself Minister of Finance again. He had held this position from 1984 to 1986.

Celebrating 25 Years as Sultan

Hassanal Bolkiah attending the 1993 APEC Summit on Blake Island, Seattle

In 1992, Brunei celebrated Hassanal Bolkiah's Silver Jubilee. This marked 25 years since he became Sultan. Brunei spent a lot of money on the event. They built a mosque with a gold dome and guest homes for visitors. The Churchill Memorial Building became the Royal Brunei Regalia Building. A special Silver Jubilee Medal was also created.

A grand banquet was held at the Istana Nurul Iman. Many royal guests attended, including the King and Queen of Malaysia and Prince Edward. The Sultan appeared with his two wives and ten children, all dressed in yellow. He promised to continue his father's policies, especially in keeping peace and improving people's lives. He then rode through the capital in a special Rolls-Royce Silver Spur limousine and a golden chariot.

The people of Kuala Belait gifted The Silver Jubilee Park to remember the occasion. This park is now a popular landmark. On 5 October 1992, the Sultan also created the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation.

The New Millennium and Beyond

Hassanal Bolkiah visiting Fort Campbell on 17 December 2002

In 2004, the Legislative Council (LegCo) was reopened after being dissolved in 1962. The Sultan made changes to Brunei's constitution in 2006 to strengthen his authority.

In 2009, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah attended Brunei's Silver Jubilee National Day celebration. He was joined by his family and leaders. Young people read the National Day oath, and there were impressive performances. He created the Silver Jubilee National Day Medal for this event.

ASEAN Secretary-General Surin Pitsuwan and Hassnal Bolkiah in 2009

In 2014, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah announced the implementation of strict Islamic laws. He stated that this action was necessary for Islam. In 2015, he also banned public Christmas celebrations for local Muslims. However, Christians were still allowed to celebrate Christmas privately.

On 22 October 2015, Hassanal Bolkiah appointed himself as the country's Minister of Foreign Affairs. He replaced his younger brother, Prince Mohamed Bolkiah.

Celebrating 50 Years as Sultan

Hassanal Bolkiah and Pengiran Anak Saleha being transported in the royal chariot on 5 October 2017

On 5 October 2017, Brunei celebrated the 50th anniversary of his royal ascension. The Sultan called it the "most historic day" for Brunei and himself. He emphasized the "reciprocal responsibility" between him and his people.

Many foreign leaders attended the festivities. These included prime ministers from Singapore, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Prince Edward and his wife also attended.

Before the parade, 80,000 people gathered in the capital. The Sultan rode in his royal chariot, pulled by fifty specially chosen workers. As he passed, thousands of well-wishers cheered, Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik! Daulat (Long live the king). The royal family joined him on the chariot. Traditional drumming and displays of gold and silver weapons were also part of the celebration.

Several events marked the Golden Jubilee. These included the opening of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge and the inauguration of the Eco-Corridor Park. A special Golden Jubilee Medal was also created.

Leadership During the Pandemic

Hassanal Bolkiah (middle) at the 2021 G20 Rome summit

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Brunei responded quickly. The Sultan showed strong leadership by promptly stopping foreigners from entering Brunei. He also prevented Bruneian citizens from leaving. He encouraged caution as social restrictions eased.

As a religious leader, the Sultan reminded Muslims that the virus was from God. He stressed the importance of social distancing, hygiene, and prayer. On 1 April 2021, he received the COVID-19 vaccination. He then approved a public vaccination program.

On 19 September 2022, the Sultan attended Queen Elizabeth II's state funeral in London. He ordered the national flag to be flown at half-mast as a sign of respect.

In October 2023, the Sultan spoke at the ASEAN-GCC Summit. He urged an end to violence and respect for international humanitarian law in the Middle East. He also called on the UN Security Council to support peace efforts, including helping Palestinians. He approved the creation of a fund to help Palestinians in Gaza.

On 22 February 2024, Brunei's 40th National Day, Hassanal Bolkiah spoke about Brunei's independence as a gift from God. He highlighted the importance of unity and patriotism for protecting religion and national identity.

Foreign Policy and International Relations

Building Global Connections

Hassanal Bolkiah at the 3rd ASEAN Summit on 14–15 December 1987

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah strongly believes in building good relationships with other countries. He has traveled to many parts of the world, including Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. In September 1984, he spoke at the United Nations General Assembly when Brunei joined the United Nations.

That same year, Brunei also joined ASEAN. He established diplomatic ties with many nations, including Singapore. Like his father, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom knighted him. He was chairman of the APEC Leaders Summit in 2000 when Brunei hosted the event.

Hassanal Bolkiah with President Barack Obama in 2015

Brunei has signed agreements to improve trade and air travel with other countries. These include the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) with the United States in 2002. In 2005, Brunei signed an "open skies" agreement with the United Arab Emirates. This allows for unrestricted air travel between the two countries.

In 2007, Brunei and Japan signed an agreement for economic partnership. This allowed them to work together on energy and human resource development. In 2008, Brunei established diplomatic ties with Kuwait and Kenya.

Hassanal Bolkiah also chaired the ASEAN Summit in 2013 and 2021.

Promoting Peace and Understanding

On 30 September 2015, Hassanal Bolkiah spoke at the United Nations. He said the UN is very important for global peace. He mentioned that all 193 UN Member States supported the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This plan aims to end poverty, reduce inequality, and fight climate change.

He also said that ASEAN countries share values like territorial integrity and the rule of law. These values help increase cooperation for peace. He suggested that cultural exchanges can help people understand each other better. This can also help prevent future conflicts.

In August 2016, Singapore and Brunei celebrated 40 years of defense cooperation. In July 2017, Hassanal Bolkiah visited Singapore to mark 50 years of their Currency Interchangeability Agreement. He and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong introduced commemorative $50 notes.

In November 2022, Hassanal Bolkiah met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Bangkok. In June 2023, he visited Bahrain. This visit highlighted the strong ties between Bahrain and Brunei. It also aimed to increase cooperation in finance, investment, and military.

Philanthropy and Scholarships

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation

The Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation (YSHHB) was started on 5 October 1992. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and his family created it to support charity work. The Foundation focuses on five main areas: finance, development, welfare, education, and religion.

In 2009, Hassanal Bolkiah approved the creation of "The Committee for the Palestinian Humanitarian Fund." The Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation gave a $50,000 grant to this fund.

Supporting Future Leaders

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah wants Brunei's future leaders to have excellent skills. In 2005, he created the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Scholarship Scheme. This scholarship helps talented young people study at top international universities and military schools. It covers tuition, living costs, and travel. More than fifty Bruneians have received this scholarship.

The "Sultan's Scholar" program is another special scholarship. It was created in 2006 by the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation. In 2013, the scholarship was expanded to include studies up to a Doctor of Philosophy degree.

Personal Life

Interests and Hobbies

Bersanding ceremony of Hassanal Bolkiah and Pengiran Anak Saleha on 29 July 1965

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah enjoys playing polo. He played polo with Prince Charles to celebrate his 50th birthday in 1996. When he was younger, he even represented the Indian Army's 61st Cavalry team. He often attends polo matches, especially since two of his children play competitively.

In 2015, Hassanal Bolkiah won the Richard Mille Gold Cup, a charity polo match. He also led his team to victory in the Richard Mille Exhibition Polo Match. These matches raised money for the Children's Cancer Foundation.

Besides polo, Hassanal Bolkiah also likes to play badminton and squash.

Family Life

The Sultan married his first cousin, Pengiran Anak Saleha, on 29 July 1965. She is now known as Her Majesty the Queen Consort. He later married Mariam Abdul Aziz in 1981. Their marriage ended in 2003. In 2005, the Sultan married Azrinaz Mazhar Hakim. Their marriage ended in 2010. He also has an adopted daughter named Afifa Abdullah with Mariam.

Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah is the current Pengiran Muda Mahkota (Crown Prince). He is the Sultan's heir and the eldest son of the Sultan and Queen Saleha. As of 2012, Hassanal Bolkiah has five sons and seven daughters. As of 2024, he also has 19 grandchildren.

Titles and Styles

Styles of The Sultan of Brunei
Reference style	His Majesty
Spoken style	Your Majesty
Alternative style	Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik

Full Title of the Sultan

• 5 October 1967 – present: His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.
  • Malay (Rumi): Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam.
  • Malay (Jawi): کباوه دولي يڠ مها موليا ڤادوک سري بݢندا سلطان حاج حسن البلقية معز الدين والدولة ابن المرحوم سلطان حاج عمر علي سيف الدين سعد الخير والدين، سلطان دان يڠ دڤرتوان نݢارا بروني دارالسلام.‎

Awards and Honours

Princes Hassanal Bolkiah and Mohamed Bolkiah at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1966

Academic Honours Received

The Sultan has received several honorary doctorates from universities around the world. These include:

• An honorary doctorate from the Moscow State University for International Relations (MGIMO) in 2005.
• An Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humanities and Culture from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Indonesia, in 2003.
• An Honorary Doctor of Laws from the National University of Singapore in 2005.
• An Honorary Doctorate of Law by King's College London (KCL) in 2011.
• An honorary doctorate in philosophy and humanities from Universitas Indonesia in 2011.
• An Honorary Doctorate Islamic Leadership from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia, in 2019.

Military Honours and Ranks

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah holds several honorary military ranks:

• In the British Army, he was made an Honorary Major General in 1984.
• Queen Elizabeth II appointed him an Air Chief Marshal in the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1992.
• In the Royal Navy, he was appointed Honorary Admiral in 2001.
• In April 2008, he became an honorary member of the Indonesian Satgas Atbara Special Operations Unit.
• He holds the rank of Honorary Colonel Commandant of Pakistan's Special Service Group (SSG).
• He received a red beret and paratrooper wings from the Indian Army.
• On 30 January 2009, he was awarded the Order of Lakandula Grand Collar from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo of Philippines.

Images for kids

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  Signature of Hassanal Bolkiah

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  War Flag of Brunei

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  Field Marshal rank insignia

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  Personal Emblem of the Sultan of Brunei

See also

In Spanish: Muda Hassanal Bolkiah para niños

• List of Sultans of Brunei
• List of Brunei-related topics
• List of current foreign ministers