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  • A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    SOME might see it as diving straight into the deep end, while others have urged for caution when it comes to dealing with diplomacy, but rest assured, I do not think His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would be out of depth when it comes to his new role as Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has now included Their Royal Highnesses Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Prince ‘Abdul Mateen into the list of newly appointed cabinet ministers, with the appointment of HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen as our new foreign minister causing a stir straight away.

    One former news editor at a local newspaper here in Brunei Darussalam contacted me asking for an opinion. I didn’t oblige because I felt I wanted to share my thoughts here first and foremost, whether belated or otherwise. The story that was produced after had many opinions I didn’t agree with.

    How does my own opinion differ? For a start a lot of the international media has picked up on the strong social media following that HRH has, and some have used that as cause to label HRH as some kind of internet sensation. I feel that is a serious disservice, more so that there is hardly any mention of what formal background HRH has, in terms of his training and education.

    To be fair, most are looking at Brunei from the outside, and the most visible HRH has been in the international arena has been when dutifully accompanying His Majesty on many state visits and international meetings. This is where we should dig a bit deeper, and not fall into the trap of parachute journalism.

    Looking back on his own journey into being a ‘Soldier Statesman’, His Majesty himself was trained at the UK’s prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. In fact, this year represents a quietly missed 60th anniversary that passed in January of this year.

    During that two year period of training (cadets now take part in a truncated 44-week course) it has been famously shared that His Majesty achieved the distinction of being one of the more distinguished foreign cadet officers, thanks to his grit and determination in the field.

    Less spoken about was His Majesty’s academic pursuits in having studied International Affairs during his time there, with a focus on Soviet era Russia. Upon completion of his training, His Majesty attained the rank of Captain, but also a firm grounding in Geopolitics that would serve His Majesty well as Brunei’s sovereign and foremost diplomat.

    That has had a significant bearing on Brunei Darussalam’s diplomatic ties with the Russian Federation, and our diplomacy ties as a whole. Make no mistake – it has allowed our country to manage a fine balance between long standing relationships such as the United Kingdom, while succeeding in fostering genuine ties with Russia, which celebrates 35 years of diplomatic ties with Brunei later this year.

    The timing of Vladimir Putin’s first visit to Brunei Darussalam in 2000, when the Sultanate hosted APEC was of particular significance, being the first year of Putin being the Russian President. Warmly welcomed to Istana Nurul Iman, Putin has referenced the inaugural visit in subsequent engagements; during visits by His Majesty to Russia, and at bilateral meetings conducted on the sidelines of ASEAN and APEC summits, and more recently during His Majesty and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen’s visit to Kazan, Russia for the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit. A true testimony to the decades of strong ties between Brunei and Russia, a relationship that has been personally cultivated through a warm friendship between His Majesty and the Russian President.

    Again, for those on the outside looking in, it might be surprising to see that mantle now being taken up by HRH, however, the more people are surprised about the appointment, the more I feel like they have missed some key substantive points.

    We should be duly reminded that HRH received his Masters Degree in International Studies and Diplomacy from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. Prior to that, a degree in International Politics from Kings College in London was completed, both coming to fruition after completing his own stint at RMAS.

    More so, the path from Sandhurst and a military career towards the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs is a similar path pioneered by another Bruneian prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Duli Pengiran Perdana Wazir. HRH Prince Mohamed also trained at Sandhurst during the same time as His Majesty, albeit separately, and upon passing out, HRH was duly commissioned in the Irish Guards.

    In 1970, HRH Prince Mohamed held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in what was then the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment, and two years later the rank of Colonel. And in the 80s, HRH observed at first, and then oversaw Brunei Darussalam’s entry into ASEAN membership and the United Nations General Assembly as Minister of Foreign Affairs following Brunei’s full independence in 1984 from being a British protectorate state.

    While His Majesty stated that HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would continue his military career, within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs itself, HRH can count on guiding hands in the form of HRH’s aunt, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Brunei’s Ambassador at Large and His Majesty’s sister. During a swearing-in ceremony held at Istana Nurul Iman recently for cabinet ministers to pledge their oath of allegiance and receive their official appointments, nephew and aunt were all smiles when they were captured on camera sharing a light hearted moment.

    Meanwhile, YB Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan Bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II is also still serving, and has been a stalwart for Bruneian diplomacy. Especially year-on-year since 2015, firstly as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and then in 2018 after being appointed to his current role. Having served as Special Envoy of ASEAN to Myanmar in 2021, a posting selected by fellow ASEAN Foreign Ministers, YB Dato Erywan is not a lightweight in this arena and is another resource HRH would undoubtedly tap into in this latest chapter of the Sultanate’s diplomacy.

    Junior officers within the Ministry have taken up the royal appointment with enthusiasm, sharing their selfies with HRH on his first day at the ministry on social media. Still, some point to diplomacy needing a deft touch, one that results from having years of experience, a point alluded to by President Putin himself when he welcomed His Majesty recently in Kazan. The Russian president praised His Majesty remarking how monarch is a seasoned and experienced leader.

    Even more insightful was how HRH, with the media glare in full effect, did not miss a step. During meetings with foreign counterparts, he did not look out of place, and reports from Russian and Asian correspondents have stated how HRH was able to hold his own in discussions held on the sidelines of the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit, and while accompanying His Majesty during parallel sideline bilateral discussions as well.

    Personally, for me, it was quite a nice coincidence to see His Majesty and HRH visiting Russia shortly after the His Majesty’s titah announcing the cabinet reshuffle. Simply because, with all the world to see, one of His Majesty’s recent appointment has indeed proven to be quite a deft touch. In that regard, we should trust the judgement of His Majesty, not just as a seasoned leader, experienced statesman and a disciplined soldier, but also as a father… As father to His Majesty’s children, and knowing what Their Royal Highnesses are capable of, and also as a father to our nation, and having faith in his rakyat and confidence in what we can achieve.

  • A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    SOME might see it as diving straight into the deep end, while others have urged for caution when it comes to dealing with diplomacy, but rest assured, I do not think His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would be out of depth when it comes to his new role as Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has now included Their Royal Highnesses Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Prince ‘Abdul Mateen into the list of newly appointed cabinet ministers, with the appointment of HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen as our new foreign minister causing a stir straight away.

    One former news editor at a local newspaper here in Brunei Darussalam contacted me asking for an opinion. I didn’t oblige because I felt I wanted to share my thoughts here first and foremost, whether belated or otherwise. The story that was produced after had many opinions I didn’t agree with.

    How does my own opinion differ? For a start a lot of the international media has picked up on the strong social media following that HRH has, and some have used that as cause to label HRH as some kind of internet sensation. I feel that is a serious disservice, more so that there is hardly any mention of what formal background HRH has, in terms of his training and education.

    To be fair, most are looking at Brunei from the outside, and the most visible HRH has been in the international arena has been when dutifully accompanying His Majesty on many state visits and international meetings. This is where we should dig a bit deeper, and not fall into the trap of parachute journalism.

    Looking back on his own journey into being a ‘Soldier Statesman’, His Majesty himself was trained at the UK’s prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. In fact, this year represents a quietly missed 60th anniversary that passed in January of this year.

    During that two year period of training (cadets now take part in a truncated 44-week course) it has been famously shared that His Majesty achieved the distinction of being one of the more distinguished foreign cadet officers, thanks to his grit and determination in the field.

    Less spoken about was His Majesty’s academic pursuits in having studied International Affairs during his time there, with a focus on Soviet era Russia. Upon completion of his training, His Majesty attained the rank of Captain, but also a firm grounding in Geopolitics that would serve His Majesty well as Brunei’s sovereign and foremost diplomat.

    That has had a significant bearing on Brunei Darussalam’s diplomatic ties with the Russian Federation, and our diplomacy ties as a whole. Make no mistake – it has allowed our country to manage a fine balance between long standing relationships such as the United Kingdom, while succeeding in fostering genuine ties with Russia, which celebrates 35 years of diplomatic ties with Brunei later this year.

    The timing of Vladimir Putin’s first visit to Brunei Darussalam in 2000, when the Sultanate hosted APEC was of particular significance, being the first year of Putin being the Russian President. Warmly welcomed to Istana Nurul Iman, Putin has referenced the inaugural visit in subsequent engagements; during visits by His Majesty to Russia, and at bilateral meetings conducted on the sidelines of ASEAN and APEC summits, and more recently during His Majesty and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen’s visit to Kazan, Russia for the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit. A true testimony to the decades of strong ties between Brunei and Russia, a relationship that has been personally cultivated through a warm friendship between His Majesty and the Russian President.

    Again, for those on the outside looking in, it might be surprising to see that mantle now being taken up by HRH, however, the more people are surprised about the appointment, the more I feel like they have missed some key substantive points.

    We should be duly reminded that HRH received his Masters Degree in International Studies and Diplomacy from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. Prior to that, a degree in International Politics from Kings College in London was completed, both coming to fruition after completing his own stint at RMAS.

    More so, the path from Sandhurst and a military career towards the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs is a similar path pioneered by another Bruneian prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Duli Pengiran Perdana Wazir. HRH Prince Mohamed also trained at Sandhurst during the same time as His Majesty, albeit separately, and upon passing out, HRH was duly commissioned in the Irish Guards.

    In 1970, HRH Prince Mohamed held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in what was then the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment, and two years later the rank of Colonel. And in the 80s, HRH observed at first, and then oversaw Brunei Darussalam’s entry into ASEAN membership and the United Nations General Assembly as Minister of Foreign Affairs following Brunei’s full independence in 1984 from being a British protectorate state.

    While His Majesty stated that HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would continue his military career, within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs itself, HRH can count on guiding hands in the form of HRH’s aunt, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Brunei’s Ambassador at Large and His Majesty’s sister. During a swearing-in ceremony held at Istana Nurul Iman recently for cabinet ministers to pledge their oath of allegiance and receive their official appointments, nephew and aunt were all smiles when they were captured on camera sharing a light hearted moment.

    Meanwhile, YB Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan Bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II is also still serving, and has been a stalwart for Bruneian diplomacy. Especially year-on-year since 2015, firstly as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and then in 2018 after being appointed to his current role. Having served as Special Envoy of ASEAN to Myanmar in 2021, a posting selected by fellow ASEAN Foreign Ministers, YB Dato Erywan is not a lightweight in this arena and is another resource HRH would undoubtedly tap into in this latest chapter of the Sultanate’s diplomacy.

    Junior officers within the Ministry have taken up the royal appointment with enthusiasm, sharing their selfies with HRH on his first day at the ministry on social media. Still, some point to diplomacy needing a deft touch, one that results from having years of experience, a point alluded to by President Putin himself when he welcomed His Majesty recently in Kazan. The Russian president praised His Majesty remarking how monarch is a seasoned and experienced leader.

    Even more insightful was how HRH, with the media glare in full effect, did not miss a step. During meetings with foreign counterparts, he did not look out of place, and reports from Russian and Asian correspondents have stated how HRH was able to hold his own in discussions held on the sidelines of the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit, and while accompanying His Majesty during parallel sideline bilateral discussions as well.

    Personally, for me, it was quite a nice coincidence to see His Majesty and HRH visiting Russia shortly after the His Majesty’s titah announcing the cabinet reshuffle. Simply because, with all the world to see, one of His Majesty’s recent appointment has indeed proven to be quite a deft touch. In that regard, we should trust the judgement of His Majesty, not just as a seasoned leader, experienced statesman and a disciplined soldier, but also as a father… As father to His Majesty’s children, and knowing what Their Royal Highnesses are capable of, and also as a father to our nation, and having faith in his rakyat and confidence in what we can achieve.

  • A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    SOME might see it as diving straight into the deep end, while others have urged for caution when it comes to dealing with diplomacy, but rest assured, I do not think His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would be out of depth when it comes to his new role as Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has now included Their Royal Highnesses Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Prince ‘Abdul Mateen into the list of newly appointed cabinet ministers, with the appointment of HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen as our new foreign minister causing a stir straight away.

    One former news editor at a local newspaper here in Brunei Darussalam contacted me asking for an opinion. I didn’t oblige because I felt I wanted to share my thoughts here first and foremost, whether belated or otherwise. The story that was produced after had many opinions I didn’t agree with.

    How does my own opinion differ? For a start a lot of the international media has picked up on the strong social media following that HRH has, and some have used that as cause to label HRH as some kind of internet sensation. I feel that is a serious disservice, more so that there is hardly any mention of what formal background HRH has, in terms of his training and education.

    To be fair, most are looking at Brunei from the outside, and the most visible HRH has been in the international arena has been when dutifully accompanying His Majesty on many state visits and international meetings. This is where we should dig a bit deeper, and not fall into the trap of parachute journalism.

    Looking back on his own journey into being a ‘Soldier Statesman’, His Majesty himself was trained at the UK’s prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. In fact, this year represents a quietly missed 60th anniversary that passed in January of this year.

    During that two year period of training (cadets now take part in a truncated 44-week course) it has been famously shared that His Majesty achieved the distinction of being one of the more distinguished foreign cadet officers, thanks to his grit and determination in the field.

    Less spoken about was His Majesty’s academic pursuits in having studied International Affairs during his time there, with a focus on Soviet era Russia. Upon completion of his training, His Majesty attained the rank of Captain, but also a firm grounding in Geopolitics that would serve His Majesty well as Brunei’s sovereign and foremost diplomat.

    That has had a significant bearing on Brunei Darussalam’s diplomatic ties with the Russian Federation, and our diplomacy ties as a whole. Make no mistake – it has allowed our country to manage a fine balance between long standing relationships such as the United Kingdom, while succeeding in fostering genuine ties with Russia, which celebrates 35 years of diplomatic ties with Brunei later this year.

    The timing of Vladimir Putin’s first visit to Brunei Darussalam in 2000, when the Sultanate hosted APEC was of particular significance, being the first year of Putin being the Russian President. Warmly welcomed to Istana Nurul Iman, Putin has referenced the inaugural visit in subsequent engagements; during visits by His Majesty to Russia, and at bilateral meetings conducted on the sidelines of ASEAN and APEC summits, and more recently during His Majesty and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen’s visit to Kazan, Russia for the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit. A true testimony to the decades of strong ties between Brunei and Russia, a relationship that has been personally cultivated through a warm friendship between His Majesty and the Russian President.

    Again, for those on the outside looking in, it might be surprising to see that mantle now being taken up by HRH, however, the more people are surprised about the appointment, the more I feel like they have missed some key substantive points.

    We should be duly reminded that HRH received his Masters Degree in International Studies and Diplomacy from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. Prior to that, a degree in International Politics from Kings College in London was completed, both coming to fruition after completing his own stint at RMAS.

    More so, the path from Sandhurst and a military career towards the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs is a similar path pioneered by another Bruneian prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Duli Pengiran Perdana Wazir. HRH Prince Mohamed also trained at Sandhurst during the same time as His Majesty, albeit separately, and upon passing out, HRH was duly commissioned in the Irish Guards.

    In 1970, HRH Prince Mohamed held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in what was then the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment, and two years later the rank of Colonel. And in the 80s, HRH observed at first, and then oversaw Brunei Darussalam’s entry into ASEAN membership and the United Nations General Assembly as Minister of Foreign Affairs following Brunei’s full independence in 1984 from being a British protectorate state.

    While His Majesty stated that HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would continue his military career, within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs itself, HRH can count on guiding hands in the form of HRH’s aunt, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Brunei’s Ambassador at Large and His Majesty’s sister. During a swearing-in ceremony held at Istana Nurul Iman recently for cabinet ministers to pledge their oath of allegiance and receive their official appointments, nephew and aunt were all smiles when they were captured on camera sharing a light hearted moment.

    Meanwhile, YB Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan Bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II is also still serving, and has been a stalwart for Bruneian diplomacy. Especially year-on-year since 2015, firstly as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and then in 2018 after being appointed to his current role. Having served as Special Envoy of ASEAN to Myanmar in 2021, a posting selected by fellow ASEAN Foreign Ministers, YB Dato Erywan is not a lightweight in this arena and is another resource HRH would undoubtedly tap into in this latest chapter of the Sultanate’s diplomacy.

    Junior officers within the Ministry have taken up the royal appointment with enthusiasm, sharing their selfies with HRH on his first day at the ministry on social media. Still, some point to diplomacy needing a deft touch, one that results from having years of experience, a point alluded to by President Putin himself when he welcomed His Majesty recently in Kazan. The Russian president praised His Majesty remarking how monarch is a seasoned and experienced leader.

    Even more insightful was how HRH, with the media glare in full effect, did not miss a step. During meetings with foreign counterparts, he did not look out of place, and reports from Russian and Asian correspondents have stated how HRH was able to hold his own in discussions held on the sidelines of the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit, and while accompanying His Majesty during parallel sideline bilateral discussions as well.

    Personally, for me, it was quite a nice coincidence to see His Majesty and HRH visiting Russia shortly after the His Majesty’s titah announcing the cabinet reshuffle. Simply because, with all the world to see, one of His Majesty’s recent appointment has indeed proven to be quite a deft touch. In that regard, we should trust the judgement of His Majesty, not just as a seasoned leader, experienced statesman and a disciplined soldier, but also as a father… As father to His Majesty’s children, and knowing what Their Royal Highnesses are capable of, and also as a father to our nation, and having faith in his rakyat and confidence in what we can achieve.

  • A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    A New Path to Brunei’s Trusted Diplomacy

    SOME might see it as diving straight into the deep end, while others have urged for caution when it comes to dealing with diplomacy, but rest assured, I do not think His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would be out of depth when it comes to his new role as Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has now included Their Royal Highnesses Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Prince ‘Abdul Mateen into the list of newly appointed cabinet ministers, with the appointment of HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen as our new foreign minister causing a stir straight away.

    One former news editor at a local newspaper here in Brunei Darussalam contacted me asking for an opinion. I didn’t oblige because I felt I wanted to share my thoughts here first and foremost, whether belated or otherwise. The story that was produced after had many opinions I didn’t agree with.

    How does my own opinion differ? For a start a lot of the international media has picked up on the strong social media following that HRH has, and some have used that as cause to label HRH as some kind of internet sensation. I feel that is a serious disservice, more so that there is hardly any mention of what formal background HRH has, in terms of his training and education.

    To be fair, most are looking at Brunei from the outside, and the most visible HRH has been in the international arena has been when dutifully accompanying His Majesty on many state visits and international meetings. This is where we should dig a bit deeper, and not fall into the trap of parachute journalism.

    Looking back on his own journey into being a ‘Soldier Statesman’, His Majesty himself was trained at the UK’s prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. In fact, this year represents a quietly missed 60th anniversary that passed in January of this year.

    During that two year period of training (cadets now take part in a truncated 44-week course) it has been famously shared that His Majesty achieved the distinction of being one of the more distinguished foreign cadet officers, thanks to his grit and determination in the field.

    Less spoken about was His Majesty’s academic pursuits in having studied International Affairs during his time there, with a focus on Soviet era Russia. Upon completion of his training, His Majesty attained the rank of Captain, but also a firm grounding in Geopolitics that would serve His Majesty well as Brunei’s sovereign and foremost diplomat.

    That has had a significant bearing on Brunei Darussalam’s diplomatic ties with the Russian Federation, and our diplomacy ties as a whole. Make no mistake – it has allowed our country to manage a fine balance between long standing relationships such as the United Kingdom, while succeeding in fostering genuine ties with Russia, which celebrates 35 years of diplomatic ties with Brunei later this year.

    The timing of Vladimir Putin’s first visit to Brunei Darussalam in 2000, when the Sultanate hosted APEC was of particular significance, being the first year of Putin being the Russian President. Warmly welcomed to Istana Nurul Iman, Putin has referenced the inaugural visit in subsequent engagements; during visits by His Majesty to Russia, and at bilateral meetings conducted on the sidelines of ASEAN and APEC summits, and more recently during His Majesty and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen’s visit to Kazan, Russia for the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit. A true testimony to the decades of strong ties between Brunei and Russia, a relationship that has been personally cultivated through a warm friendship between His Majesty and the Russian President.

    Again, for those on the outside looking in, it might be surprising to see that mantle now being taken up by HRH, however, the more people are surprised about the appointment, the more I feel like they have missed some key substantive points.

    We should be duly reminded that HRH received his Masters Degree in International Studies and Diplomacy from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. Prior to that, a degree in International Politics from Kings College in London was completed, both coming to fruition after completing his own stint at RMAS.

    More so, the path from Sandhurst and a military career towards the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs is a similar path pioneered by another Bruneian prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Duli Pengiran Perdana Wazir. HRH Prince Mohamed also trained at Sandhurst during the same time as His Majesty, albeit separately, and upon passing out, HRH was duly commissioned in the Irish Guards.

    In 1970, HRH Prince Mohamed held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in what was then the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment, and two years later the rank of Colonel. And in the 80s, HRH observed at first, and then oversaw Brunei Darussalam’s entry into ASEAN membership and the United Nations General Assembly as Minister of Foreign Affairs following Brunei’s full independence in 1984 from being a British protectorate state.

    While His Majesty stated that HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen would continue his military career, within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs itself, HRH can count on guiding hands in the form of HRH’s aunt, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Brunei’s Ambassador at Large and His Majesty’s sister. During a swearing-in ceremony held at Istana Nurul Iman recently for cabinet ministers to pledge their oath of allegiance and receive their official appointments, nephew and aunt were all smiles when they were captured on camera sharing a light hearted moment.

    Meanwhile, YB Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan Bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II is also still serving, and has been a stalwart for Bruneian diplomacy. Especially year-on-year since 2015, firstly as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and then in 2018 after being appointed to his current role. Having served as Special Envoy of ASEAN to Myanmar in 2021, a posting selected by fellow ASEAN Foreign Ministers, YB Dato Erywan is not a lightweight in this arena and is another resource HRH would undoubtedly tap into in this latest chapter of the Sultanate’s diplomacy.

    Junior officers within the Ministry have taken up the royal appointment with enthusiasm, sharing their selfies with HRH on his first day at the ministry on social media. Still, some point to diplomacy needing a deft touch, one that results from having years of experience, a point alluded to by President Putin himself when he welcomed His Majesty recently in Kazan. The Russian president praised His Majesty remarking how monarch is a seasoned and experienced leader.

    Even more insightful was how HRH, with the media glare in full effect, did not miss a step. During meetings with foreign counterparts, he did not look out of place, and reports from Russian and Asian correspondents have stated how HRH was able to hold his own in discussions held on the sidelines of the ASEAN – Russia Commemorative Summit, and while accompanying His Majesty during parallel sideline bilateral discussions as well.

    Personally, for me, it was quite a nice coincidence to see His Majesty and HRH visiting Russia shortly after the His Majesty’s titah announcing the cabinet reshuffle. Simply because, with all the world to see, one of His Majesty’s recent appointment has indeed proven to be quite a deft touch. In that regard, we should trust the judgement of His Majesty, not just as a seasoned leader, experienced statesman and a disciplined soldier, but also as a father… As father to His Majesty’s children, and knowing what Their Royal Highnesses are capable of, and also as a father to our nation, and having faith in his rakyat and confidence in what we can achieve.

  • Cabinet shake-up sets stage for country’s next chapter

    Cabinet shake-up sets stage for country’s next chapter

    MANY of us that tuned into any local media source around three yesterday afternoon, must have experienced a moment of utter confusion when expecting to hear the special announcement by His Majesty, instead heard regular programming. Many of us waited nonetheless, and stayed glued to our devices – certain that the announcement was just delayed. 

    We waited because we care a great deal for our country, our people and our collective future. We waited because odds were that the monarch’s special announcement was most certainly about the much-anticipated cabinet reshuffle; after all the timing was right and depending on who one asked, the theories and opinions vastly differed as to whom amongst the senior executive members of the government would stay on and whose time was up.

    When the official announcement finally came on air, a half hour behind schedule, followed by the national anthem, everyone listening and watching knew that the new cabinet reshuffle would yield certain clues to the country’s immediate and short-term future but, above all else, that one thing would remain constant and that is His Majesty would still remain the sovereign, and Prime Minister.

    Despite his age, the monarch remains a fighting fit man for whom the country and its people will be celebrating his 80th birthday next month, during which time, His Majesty will still (most likely) continue to pilot the jets and helicopters of His Majesty’s Sultan’s Flight, drive himself (mostly) around town and even still insist on keeping up with the monarch’s demanding daily schedule, but after the recent health scare made those close around him finally realise that time had finally come to naturally signal for His Majesty to slow down.

    Over the past several years, voices of dissent, dissatisfaction, disdain and derision towards the monarch and the Royal Family have noticeably increased but perhaps, the real issue is this: Say you were appointed as a cabinet minister. What would you do in your first week or 100 days? Would your decisions produce a better result?

    Working tirelessly day and night, week after week, months upon months and years onto decades, in duty to the institution of the monarchy and service to his people and subjects, the monarch has never once complained. Most genuine monarchs never do.

    They were born, bred and trained to lead – this is their sole purpose in this world. Even His Majesty’s most loyally devoted subject can now see the toll the years have taken. Although His Majesty still holds court with a palpable aura of grace, charisma, compassion and regal composure, that very distinct voice that is unmistakably His Majesty’s remains distinctive but very much weathered.

    So as this regal voice told his people and country that two new princes would join the 2026 line-up of cabinet ministers, many among us were caught pleasantly surprised and deeply thankful.

    For this observer, the appointments of HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen yesterday could not have happened at a more opportune time in the country’s history to take on the mantles as Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Foreign Affairs respectively. This appointment sent out two seismic signals.

    The first was that His Majesty himself had decided that the time has finally come for his male heirs to help him run the family estate that is Brunei Darussalam. With HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik expecting to celebrate his 43rd birthday at the end of this month whilst HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen will turn 35 years old in August, these two princes now finally join their eldest brother, HRH the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, whom at 52 years and four months old, has been waiting patiently as the sole heir apparent for a signal that his day would come to fulfil the role that he was destined for – that day materialised yesterday.  

    The second signal was the quiet continuity of the changing of the proverbial guard. His Majesty, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and HRH Prince Jefri Bolkiah were all much younger when they were appointed by their late father, Al-Marhum Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien to assume ministerial portfolios as Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Minister of Finance respectively.

    Today, just like during the yesteryears, three young princes again hold court in an official capacity. All that remains now is to ensure that the two younger brothers settle in nicely and discharge their duties and responsibilities, as expected by their father, before another final signal in waiting unfolds.

    There is also another key similarity to that of His Majesty and his immediate brother as the then Minister of Foreign Affairs, with HRH the Crown Prince already a shadow prime minister – watching, listening, observing, all the while learning from His Majesty.

    The fact that HRH the Crown Prince’s immediate brother too is now appointed into the same circle of power must provide some welcome comfort and relief for when the Regent is set to rule one day.

    With the emphasis placed on HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen to attract foreign investment, we asked several local Gen-Z entrepreneurs their opinions of the special announcement yesterday.

    Hadi Othman, a successful AI entrepreneur, shared: “It seems like an exciting time, and the next 100 days will probably be crucial and critical to see how much ourselves as rakyat can contribute with the new cabinet in the country’s drive towards 2035. I think having Their Royal Highnesses in the cabinet does help our nation, but at the end of the day, it is all of us working together – the Royal Family, the good citizens, our government, the corporates, the SMEs, and all other stakeholders, that will drive our success not just in 2035, but before, and beyond. Everyone needs to play their own part and give their best effort – and with Allah’s blessings, all will work out.”

    Hadi Wahab, CEO of GoMamam, replied: “It’s a positive appointment and brings fresh energy and perspectives to the Cabinet. From an entrepreneur’s perspective, I’m optimistic that HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen’s role can help strengthen Brunei’s international profile, attract more investment opportunities, and build stronger connections with the global business community. I wish Their Royal Highnesses all the best in serving the nation.”

    Whilst Riwandi Zakaria, a youth entrepreneur, remarked: “It’s good, I feel very enthusiastic knowing that the younger members of the new cabinet have been introduced, in particular, Their Royal Highnesses Prince ‘Abdul Malik and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen. I share His Majesty’s hope that with these new appointments come new ideas and greater progress.“

    However, another private sector entrepreneur, Abdul Rahman Hj Abdul Aziz, said: “I hope that the new blood will make significant changes. I have a pessimistic view and unfortunately, the data backs it up, but I want to be hopeful for my kids.”

    On the introduction of the new coordinating ministers, she pointed out: “Trying to reach vision 2035 without clear goals, it can be tricky to manoeuvre around and make actual changes when people don’t know where they should go, the positive thing is now that there is younger blood, whilst on the reshuffle itself, noted: ”Political stability is important to ensure plans follow through, I only hope for the best with the changes that were made,” by offering a solution of, “strategic spending, or investments,” needing to be done soon. It is anticipated that along with it Brunei is faced with less issues, such as the electrical and water outage issues that were seen in recent years, and experiences more progress that benefits all.

    What would you do in your first week if you were appointed as a cabinet minister? Tell us your thoughts and your comments and make sure they’re constructive to be of any value.

    Best one receives a free Lamborghini Aventador Spyder, or a Bugatti courtesy of our investors.. the Jedi Temple of Alderaan.

    – Editing and Additional reporting by Izam Said Ya’akub

  • Brunei 2026 Cabinet Members

    Brunei 2026 Cabinet Members

    ‘Hear people’s concerns, respond timely’: as HM ushers new cabinet line-up

    RIGHT from the onset of the titah, His Majesty began by praising the Al-Mighty atas nikmat keamanan at a time when much of the world are bracing from the direct effects of the war in the Middle East, and the blessing of tranquility and stability that Brunei Darussalam has achieved.

    Now at the implementation phase of the blueprint, first announced in 2007, to achieve the national goals set for Wawasan Brunei 2035, satu mercu tanda penting bagi negara indeed as the much-anticipated titah decreed, that now less than a decade away, the journey still on this roadmap rests on the wisdom and disciplined leadership as well as shared sense of cohesion and liability amongst cabinet ministers.

    The monarch then duly abolished the sitting cabinet and approved of several major readjustments beginning with the summary appointment of two princes, after taking into account their natural interest and early exposure to the government’s management systems.

    Declaring tawakal before Allah SWT, His Majesty proclaimed the appointments of the new ministerial and deputies line-up starting with the monarch himself continuing as Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Minister of Finance.

    Second in command, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah reprises the post of Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office with a new role as Deputy Chair of the Executive Council on Wawasan 2035.  

    Following the royal hint, it was much expected for His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik’s name be called out by His Majesty – as a Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, whilst also reaffirming HRH’s role as Chair of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation.   

    His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen was indulged a more elaborate introduction in HRH’s appointment as Brunei’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, “whilst continuing a career in the armed forces,” and as the country’s newest statesman, His Majesty listed out HRH’s additional active roles in the Executive Council for Wawasan 2035, “specifically to push economic development and national trade through diplomatic relations, strategic cooperation and international investment.” 

    Three new posts were created – coordinating ministers – perhaps borrowing from the Singapore model; to coordinate national security policies appointed to YB Pehin Datu Lailaraja Maj Gen (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohd Halbi Bin Hj Mohd Yussof by reinforcing all ministries efforts to safeguard the nation; whilst YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Abd Manaf Bin Hj Metussin will coordinate economic policies by minimising economic wastage within the ministries tasked to advance primary sectors as YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Ahmaddin Bin Hj Abd Rahman coordinates social and manpower policies. The new Coordinating Minister for Economic Policy was also appointed to lead the newly restructured Ministry of Economy, Trade and Investment.

    The formerly known as Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism portfolio now renamed Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, or METI for short, was His Majesty explained, “to accelerate the development of the primary sectors as well as embrace efforts to diversify in order to ensure sustainable economic growth as well as achieve meaningful employment.”  

    Seven sitting ministers – namely YB Pehin Datu Lailaraja Maj Gen (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Hj Halbi Bin Hj Mohd Yussof as Minister at PMO, YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Ahmaddin Bin Hj Abd Rahman as Minister of Home Affairs, YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Erywan Bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Hj Mohd Yusof as second Minister of Foreign Affairs, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Bin Abdullah as second Minister of Finance (Investment), YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Isham Bin Hj Jaafar as Minister of Health, YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Mohd Juanda Bin Hj Abd Rashid as Minister of Development, YB Datin Seri Setia Dr Hjh Romaizah Binti Hj Mohd Salleh as Minister of Education – were reappointed to continue on their incumbent functions and duties for cohesion and stability. The second Minister of Finance was also called upon by His Majesty to “be responsible in leading investment portfolios locally and internationally as well as monitor performances of government-linked companies.”

    The four deputy ministers appointed to full ministerial rank – YB Dato Seri Paduka Hj Sufian Bin Hj Sabtu as Minister at PMO (Security & Legal), YB Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohd Azmi Bin Hj Mohd Hanifah as Minister at PMO (Energy), YB Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohd Tashim Bin Pengiran Hj Hassan as the new Minister of Religious Affairs and YB Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohd Riza Bin Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos as Minister of Transport and Info-Communications – came with a comment by His Majesty that their appointments was also hoped to bring “new perspectives and ideas”.

    Over the course of their four-year term, His Majesty urged the new ministers “serve as one team, provide the best services to His Majesty’s subjects, listen to their concerns, provide timely responses, with full commitment and integrity to carry the country forward to achieve the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.”

    Towards the end of the monarch’s titah, His Majesty read out in clipped procession, the names of the new deputy ministers at the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Development and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry – Pengiran Datin Seri Paduka Hjh Zety Sufina Binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Hj Sani, Puan Dr Nor Imtihan Binti Hj Abd Razak and Puan Hjh Tutiaty Binti Hj Abd Wahab – quietly shattered another progressive glass ceiling for the country, as this 2026 cabinet now includes four women. The highest number appointed at this level, one minister and three deputy ministers, sent in to do what has traditionally been a man’s job.   

  • Brunei sets sights on Economy as it celebrates National Day

    Brunei sets sights on Economy as it celebrates National Day

    AS BRUNEI DARUSSALAM celebrates its 42nd National Day, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam firmly set the nation’s sights on efforts to build a more robust economy as the Sultanate navigates its course towards Wawasan 2035.

    In His Majesty’s titah, our monarch highlighted the unique timing of this year’s National Day, coinciding with that of the holy month of Ramadhan. His Majesty duly reminded us all in Brunei that our independence and completing Ramadhan, “would not be realised without sacrifice, patience and pure intentions”.

    Further pointing out that, “while doing so, we should boost our efforts in building an economy for the welfare of the Rakyat and the nation.”

    For the last few years we, as a country, have pushed very hard to realise and achieve His Majesty’s desire to diversify from Brunei Darussalam’s life blood of oil and gas. And while casual observers may be quick to judge on how that may be slow in fruition, the groundwork continues to be laid by Brunei as it redoubles its efforts to pivot and build an economy that is less dependent on our hydrocabon natural resources.

    It has to be duly noted that the Maritime Eco-System that His Majesty touched upon in the very same titah is a very poignant development. Transshipment activities have received significant boost with the development of a ship-to-ship Lay-up Designated Area.

    For Brunei Darussalam, with its close proximity to trade shipping routes, and a protected bay in the form of Muara giving safe and secure shelter, it is a positive result for us as businesses in Brunei have a better potential in being competitive regionally.

    In essence, the timely development is a maritime area specifically for mooring, maintenance and transferring shipping cargo between vessels, allowing to reduce significantly operating costs, in particular during low demand. The latter part of that sentence has proven to be a thorn in Brunei’s side as many products come into the country, and little coming out resulting in exorbitant rates to export.

    It serves to be another part of the jigsaw puzzle for businesses in Brunei Darussalam to be able to get out there, now, on the logistics side, it seems like we are continuing to make steps in the right direction.

    A few years ago, I had the opportunity to work closely and assess some proposals to a private company, a client based in Serasa, which was looking at business opportunities, and, in particular, exports.

    Japanese entities are among those that came to view their site in Serasa, and recently still there has been firm Japanese interest in setting up in Brunei Darussalam, their goal was to leverage on Brunei Halal and Food & Beverage exports. Another visitor from the Republic of Korea that came to the same site to assess business opportunities was very excited in the potential at food packaging and Halal food exports from the sultanate. The parties stated their interests but at that point in time the numbers didn’t sit quite right.

    Those same interested parties would be greatly interested in another development that Brunei Darussalam is pursuing with its ASEAN neighbour, and partner, Singapore.

    The city state and sultanate are committed to another regional strategic partnership, one of many that the two share, notably the Brunei-Singapore Agri-Tech Food Zone. The initiative is aimed firmly at shoring up the supply chain and food security for both countries, and in the same instance, creating business activities for local business and further employment opportunities.

    It is this in-depth focus on pragmatic economic problem-solving, such as the maritime developments, in our economy, which may allow the follow through that some of businesses in Brunei require to flourish. We need the impactful consequences on the ground that can help the business case for local businesses to secure partnerships, foreign direct investment to flow, and to make good on the hard work currently carried out by Brunei Darussalam. All of which is designed to see the citizens and residents of Brunei reap what they are able to sow.

  • Severe traffic accidents concerning Brunei society

    Severe traffic accidents concerning Brunei society

    Recently there have been two significant road accidents resulting in fatalities, a number of other accidents which have gone viral due to the photos highlighting the severity of the crashes. The most recent severe accident took place in Temburong on the eve of National Day, all of which have concerned our society.

    Most tragic are undoubtedly the lives lost, with grieving family members left to pick themselves and move on, it leaves every Bruneian with a grim feeling, especially when we sit back and realise that many accidents can be prevented and curbed.

    Sometime ago, when it was called the Ministry of Communications and not what it is today, I was in the Belait District to speak to the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, after he had delivered a key note address at the launch of a programme aimed at raising the calibre of driving instructors nationwide.

    It remains very firmly in my mind as its been the only time a Permanent Secretary, who had to rush back to Bandar Seri Begawan to attend to his other responsibilities, instructed me to call him in 20 mins on his personal line. He gave me his number, and departed in his official government vehicle, and the following conversation he outlined what the aim for the programme was. I was grateful that it wasn’t just lip-service or a ploy to leave me standing at the altar so to speak.

    Apologizing for his haste in leaving, Dato at the time explained that the education aspect, or training the trainers, was crucial in delivering a higher standard of driver. However, he did admit that it would take time and the standards upheld in order for there to be a significant change in accidents.

    My point in highlighting this isn’t to criticise or question whether or not the policy bore fruit, but rather to encapsulate what the severity of those accidents have in common.

    Speed.

    In my time as the motoring columnist at the Brunei Times, I had the privilege of speaking to accident investigators from the Royal Brunei Police Force, in particular when they invited Australian experts to help assist and teach them on specific aspects of understanding vehicle accidents.

    It was made very clear to all, with no uncertain terms, that the number one cause of fatalities in road accidents is speed.

    I go back to this simply because the images shared online show very clearly aspects of the road accidents, cars which have already been designed to crumple to reduce the impact on other vehicles, pedestrians and road users, compacted to highlight the forces involved.

    In one image, a government vehicle, a Pajero, was smashed head on and the chassis clearly contorted. In another incident this week, the vehicle remained mostly in one piece, but was turfed so far away from the road and facing the opposite direction, that people wondered how it got there, another telling aspect of this accident was that there were hardly any indications or markings on the ground nearby, implications of a vehicle traveling at speed and then in the air before landing in a heap.

    Just my humble opinion, but maybe we should continue with the current push to raise the calibre of drivers, while at the same time, we raise awareness and enforcement to curb the severity of these incidents.

    In the past, the Ministry of Transport and Info Communications had made notable strides in doing so, alongside the Road Safety Council. Maybe it is timely for us to revisit some of the initiatives that made it such a success, and see if we can replicate it for the benefit of all road users in Brunei.

  • Stay tuned for more stories!

    Stay tuned for more stories!

    The New Brunei Digest is home to Opinion and Analysis articles centred on Brunei Darussalam. Our Writers and Contributors span from the Sultanate’s News and Media sector as well as experts from a wide variety of Industries. It is our hope that our readers will benefit from our insights and perspectives, spurring Brunei Darussalam’s efforts to achieve its ‘Wawasan 2035’ targets.

  • Brunei Darussalam’s 42nd National Day and Welcome to The New Brunei Digest

    Brunei Darussalam’s 42nd National Day and Welcome to The New Brunei Digest

    As’salamu’alaikum warrahmatullahi wabbarakatuh.

    Bismillāhir-Rahmānir-Rahīm.

    First and foremost, on behalf of the management and administration of The New Brunei Digest, we would like to take this humble opportunity to greet our readers, old and new, on the auspicious occasion of our nation’s 42nd National Day.

    As some of us may know, the theme for this year’s National Day is ‘Bersatu Mencapai Cita Negara’, which roughly translates to united in achieving our nation’s aspiration. A rather fitting theme for not only our country as we look towards Wawasan 2035 in the coming years, but also for this platform.

    When I touched upon earlier in my greeting to readers both old and new, it is a nod to those readers who have read all our stories in the past. It has been a long journey for myself and fellow founder, Waleed PD Mahdini, and without the support and encouragement of our readership in the past, the professional network and acquaintances we have built up over the years, we would not even begin to consider this substantial undertaking.

    However, I digress… it was during His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 78th royal birthday celebrations that we had decided to venture back into this arena, with a new platform.

    In His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan’s titah to mark the occasion, His Majesty highlighted that 2035 was nearing, and that we, as a nation, need to pull together in order to reach the targets that His Majesty laid out years ago.

    It was during that moment where His Majesty asked us, the rakyat, to question ourselves what can we do for the nation, and for one another, that spurred us both on to put together The New Brunei Digest.

    You see, for my own part, I have been in this industry for over 22 years, and my colleague longer still. Between us is almost five decades of working in communications, first and foremost on the frontlines and in the newsroom. Our bylines include that of Radio Television Brunei, where most of the Bruneians working today will have seen my colleague on their screens; and the Borneo Bulletin; and then came the inception of The Brunei Times, where we spent most of our years working together, as well as several other notable enterprises along our journey.

    In the corporate world also, ranging from Corporate Affairs in various organisations, we have been in the Oil and Gas sector, Banking and Finance, and as Media and Communications consultants in one way or another for past members of the State Legislative Council, and a number of smaller medium enterprise companies. At one point we even ran and delivered a car magazine, the first of its kind in Brunei Darussalam, with foreign contributors filling in where necessary as newly released cars would only be arriving on our shores much later on.

    With all that in the proverbial bank, it was a clear sign for us that it is now or never. Albeit with a new approach, better focus, still the hallmarks of the kind of writing and language that drew readers to our stories all those years ago, this time around we hope that we can bring more likeminded individuals to participate on a broader scale.

    As we firm up our platform, our forté will be Opinion and Analysis, Talking points involving Business and our Economy, with video content to come later down the road. Our wish is to deliver content and material that is relevant to our sovereign and the decision makers, and more importantly to break it all down for the rakyat and residents alike. As it is only with your support will our endeavour not only endure, but insya’Allah more importantly, thrive.

    So, please feel free to write in to The Driven Company, our publisher’s email address at driven.BN@gmail.com should you like to schedule an interview or discussion to collaborate. As we begin to move forward with our plans to grow this platform, we are open to explore all opportunities to engage with collaborators and contributors alike.

    Lastly, best wishes also to all observing the holy month of Ramadhan and to the members of our community currently enjoying the festive celebrations of the Lunar New Year. May this special time of the year unite us as we celebrate 42 years of nationhood.