The diplomat who served as the eyes and ears of the Sultan

Health · Published 9 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: For over three decades, Prince Mohamed Bolkiah navigated the complex waters of global diplomacy. From his military training at Sandhurst to his pivotal role in Brunei's independence, he helped shape a tiny nation's standing on the world stage, ensuring its voice was heard within the UN and ASEAN.

Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, born 27 August 1947, is the second son of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit and Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III. His path to international diplomacy was paved by a rigorous education and military training. Following his time at Kuala Lumpur's Victoria Institution until 1963, he completed GCE 'A' Levels at Omar Ali Saifuddien College then joined the United Kingdom's Sandhurst Military Academy. He received his commission as a junior lieutenant within the Irish Guards during 1967.

His political ascent was marked by significant traditional and modern responsibilities. In 1967, his father appointed him Pengiran Temenggong Sahibol Bahar, a wazir position that surpassed others in importance. By February 1970, his brother, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, bestowed upon him the title Pengiran Perdana Wazir Sahibul Himmah Wal-Waqar. This role, meaning the 'eyes and ears' of the ruler, established him as the head of the traditional Brunei wazirs.

Following Brunei's independence on 1 January 1984, Bolkiah became the country's first Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, a position he held until 22 October 2015. He was instrumental in Brunei's integration into the international community, helping the nation join the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, ASEAN, and the Commonwealth. He viewed ASEAN membership as a vital 'insurance policy' to ensure regional stability and respect for Brunei's sovereignty. Though replaced in his ministerial role by the Sultan during a 2015 cabinet reshuffle, he remains a prominent figure in royal and national ceremonies.

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