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Omar Ali Saifuddien III

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In this Malay name, there is no surname or family name. The name Muhammad Jamalul Alam II is a patronymic, and the person should be referred to by their given name, Omar Ali Saifuddien III. The word "bin" or "binti"/"binte" means 'son of' or 'daughter of', respectively.
Omar Ali Saifuddien III
عمر علي سيف الدين ٣
Official portrait of Omar Ali Saifuddien III prior to his abdication on 4 October 1967
Sultan of Brunei
Reign4 June 1950 – 5 October 1967
Coronation31 May 1951
PredecessorAhmad Tajuddin
SuccessorHassanal Bolkiah
Minister of Defence
Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces
In office
1 January 1984 – 7 September 1986
MonarchHassanal Bolkiah
Preceded byOffice established
Succeeded byHassanal Bolkiah
BornOmar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien
(1914-09-23)23 September 1914
Istana Kota, Brunei Town, Brunei
Died7 September 1986(1986-09-07) (aged 71)
Istana Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Burial8 September 1986
Kubah Makam Di Raja, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Spouse
Dayang Siti Amin
​
​
(m. 1937; div. 1944)​
​
​
(m. 1941; died 1979)​
Pengiran Anak Hajah Salhah
​
​
(m. 1980)​
Issue
List
HouseBolkiah
FatherSultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II
MotherPengiran Anak Siti Fatimah
ReligionSunni Islam
Signature

Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien (Jawi: عمر علي سيف الدين سعد الخير والدين‎; 23 September 1914 – 7 September 1986) was the 28th Sultan of Brunei, reigning from 1950 until his abdication in 1967 to his oldest son, Hassanal Bolkiah.

Over the course of his 17-year reign, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III significantly altered Brunei.[1] He also created the Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) philosophy, which is the country's guiding ideology.[2] In order to prepare his people for the restoration of the state's sovereign rights—which had been started by his predecessor and spurred by the Brunei nationalist movement toward the close of World War II—he also started social and economic reform. He became known as the Architect of Modern Brunei,[3] Royal Poet, Father of Brunei Negara Zikir and Father of Independence.[1][4]

Early life and education[edit]

Pengiran Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien was born at Istana Kota, Kampong Sultan Lama, Brunei Town on 23 September 1914.[5][2] He was the second son of Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II and Raja Isteri Fatimah.[6] In the palace, he received an education that was both in line with Islamic principles and tradition. With the help of several tutors, he was able to learn how to read the Quran and completed reading it through 40 times.[4][7]

At the palace, he was instructed in English language, religious knowledge, customs, and traditions while he was in the palace. Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim, Shaykh Haji Abdul Halim, and T. F. Stalley were among his tutors. While he was still receiving training at the palace, he studied "Dikir Brunei" every day after supper until he became an expert in it.[4][7]

On the behest of his British mentor and father-figure Sir Roland Evelyn Turnbull, the then 18 years old prince enrolled together with two of his cousins, Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam and Pengiran Anak Abdul Kahar, at the Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK) in Perak, British Malaya from 1932 to 1936.[7] As a result, he was the first of the Brunei sultans to receive formal education in a foreign institution.[4][1]

After completing education in Malaya, he returned to Brunei in 1936 to work in the Forestry Department, as a cadet officer. In 1937, he was transferred to the Judiciary Department, also became an administrative officer in 1938.[6] During the Japanese occupation of Brunei from 1941 until 1945, Omar Ali Saifuddien worked under State Secretary Ibrahim bin Mohammad Jahfar.[6] After the Second World War, in 1947, he was subsequently appointed a member of the State Council and chairman of the Syariah Court.[8] He had the title Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara conferred on him by his brother, Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin on 15 July 1947.[9]

One early important contribution of Omar Ali Saifuddien was to regularise Islamic administration in Brunei. In 1948, a religious council, comprising the Mohammedan Religious Advisers was formed. Due to his initiative, the council met for the first time on 31 January 1948. He himself was appointed chairman of this council. After examining several laws on Islamic affairs in the Malay Peninsula, the board made new proposals regarding the religious administration in Brunei.[10] The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is a testament to his commitment to advancing and bolstering the Islamic faith in Brunei.[2]

Reign[edit]

Accession and coronation[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddien (right) seen at his coronation on 31 May 1951

Upon the sudden death of his brother in Singapore, who left no male heirs, on 4 June 1950, he was proclaimed by Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Muhammad Yasin as the next Sultan at the Hall Government Office on 6 June 1950.[11] Omar Ali Saifuddien embraced his new role and asserted his authority by directing his late brother's burial at the Kubah Makam Di Raja upriver, contrary to Tengku Raihani's preference.[9]

At 2:30 p.m., British Resident Eric Ernest Falk Pretty formally declared Omar Ali Saifuddien as Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and the 28th sultan of Brunei, with the decision's origin remaining unclear between Sarawak's Governor Anthony Abell and Brunei's Council of State. Later, it was revealed that Pretty had installed Omar Ali Saifuddien as sultan "against significant local opposition." During a news conference held in Singapore early on 7 June 1950, MacBryan stated that the intended coronation of Omar Ali Saifuddin would not be possible without the elements of the Brunei royal regalia he had obtained.[9]

Omar Ali Saifuddien with his wife, Pengiran Anak Damit, at his coronation

Omar Ali Saifuddien was crowned as the Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan in the Lapau on 31 May 1951.[6] In conjunction of the coronation, he was conferred with the Honorary Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (CMG) by Queen Elizabeth II.[6][12]

Early reign and educational reforms[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in c. 1958

Upon his ascension to the throne, Omar Ali Saifuddien also became the head of the Islamic religion in the country.[10] Sending locals to study overseas was one of his initiatives to raise the caliber and aptitude of the native student body. Three Malay fifth-graders were transferred to Singapore's Al-Juned Arabic School in 1950. As a result, the number went up every year. In 1963, one of the first local students to graduate from Al-Azhar University did so thanks to this scholarship. Three Bruneians graduated from Al-Azhar University under his reign.[13]

Omar Ali Saifuddien attended the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey, London on 2 June 1953. Later on 9 June, he was conferred with the Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (KCMG) by Queen Elizabeth II.[14]

The Bruneian government spent B$10.65 million in total on educational issues. In 1954, this policy on education was first presented. The equipment of educational institutions, including secondary schools, adult education, and vocational training, is to be determined by this policy for Brunei. This plan calls for the development of thirty schools, and starting in November 1953, free meals will be served at each school. The English-language Raja Isteri Girls' High School in Brunei Town was finished in 1957, but only goes up to Form 3. These children will go to Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien College to sit for Forms 4 and 5 after completing the Lower Secondary Certificate Examination. Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School in Brunei Town, Muda Hashim Secondary School in Tutong, and Sultan Hassan Secondary School in Temburong were the secondary schools that were finished in 1966.[2]

The Department of Religious Affairs, which oversees all national administrative concerns pertaining to Brunei's Islamic Constitution, was established on 1 July 1954, by the Sultan.[15] Aspects of Islam are included in the plan, including legal issues, educational issues, religious message-related activities, and social administration. Two religious officials from Johor were brought to Brunei on 25 September 1954 in conjunction with that.[16] Haji Ismail bin Omar Abdul Aziz and Haji Othman bin Mohammad Said are those individuals. The Bruneian government started holding an evening religious school in September 1956. Additionally, the government provides scholarships to a limited number of students to pursue further education overseas at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt; Islamic College in Klang; and Madrasah Aljunied Al-Islamiah in Singapore.[2]

On 11 October 1956, seven religious schools were established in Brunei utilising the premises of both Malay and English schools, based on the officers' findings and suggestions. Nine religious instructors who were invited from the State of Johor to teach in Brunei were involved in the religious studies program. After Zuhur, the religious schools opened in the afternoon. These religious schools were administered by the Department of Religious Affairs, and their director and administrator were the highest ranking officials in the department.[16]

Constitutional journey of Brunei[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddien formed a commission to get feedback from locals in various regions, which was the first step towards drafting a written constitution for Brunei. The commission, which had seven appointed members and was called Jawatankuasa Menyiasat Perlembagaan (JKPP) or Tujuh Serangkai,[17] demonstrated his willingness to take into account the opinions of the people in spite of his absolute power. They were tasked with gathering public feedback, creating an extensive report, and offering the Sultan advice on creating district councils, reorganising the State Council, and creating the Constitution.[18]

The Tujuh Serangkai created a report detailing the public's support and agreement with the Sultan's constitutional goals after touring all four districts of Brunei. Under the direction of the Sultan, Brunei's constitution was drafted based on their findings, and on 23 March 1954, the Tujuh Serangkai presented a 50-page Malay report to the Sultan.[19]

The first draft of Brunei's constitution, drafted by Sir Anthony Abell and his peers, protected Brunei's sovereignty and was in line with the goals of the country's Malay constitutional committee. Abell, the Sultan, and his two Wazirs, Pengiran Bendahara and Pengiran Pemancha, met with British Resident John Orman Gilbert on 16–17 December 1954, in Istana Darul Hana. These negotiations resulted in minor changes that were submitted to the Colonial Office, where they were unanimously accepted.[20]

District Advisory Councils were formed in each of the four districts in 1955.[2][21] By mid-1955, Omar Ali Saifuddien's demands to secure roles for his Wazirs in the Legislative and Executive Councils complicated the drafting of Brunei's constitution and disrupted British plans for parliamentary re-organisation.[22]

In 1956, A. M. Azahari's Brunei People's Party (PRB) was popular in Brunei because it supported the Sultan's status as a constitutional monarch while promoting independence through constitutional means. Colonial authorities supported the goals of the PRB, but they believed that the organisation's demands for equal pay, worker welfare, ministerial governance, and public elections were too extreme.[23] The Sultan's resistance to British proposals led to a strong opposition, which made him more determined to maintain his local control. As a result, the draft constitution underwent major changes and deletions.[24]

In 1957, Omar Ali Saifuddien sent a team to London to negotiate the constitution with the British Government. The principal subject of the 1957 London Negotiations was the Rang Undang-Undang Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei, 'Brunei State Constitution Bill', drafted by Panglima Bukit Gantang in Brunei House in Singapore.[25] Azahari made an effort to communicate with British officials, but the Sultan's opposition made the PRB's recommendations unconsidered. Consequently, Azahari said that the British were disregarding the aspirations of the populace, which set the stage for the revolution in 1962.[26]

In 1958, the 1957 London discussions were revisited in Brunei. Omar Ali Saifuddien and Sir Anthony Abell met on 27 October in Istana Darul Hana to review the outcomes of the London discussions. The objective was to finalise the key concepts from the previous talks. Later, on 2 November 1958, a special meeting chaired by the Sultan's adviser resolved to send a delegation led by the Sultan himself to London for further constitutional negotiations. Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang and Neil Lawson were chosen to accompany the delegation because of their legal expertise and roles as consultants on constitutional matters.[26]

Following the Merdeka Talks, Brunei's constitutional problems became the attention of British authorities, who summoned the Sultan to London in early 1959 to finalize the document with the Colonial Secretary. On 14 March, Omar Ali Saifuddien traveled via Singapore with ten members of his team to London for constitutional talks. As a consequence of the discussions, the Brunei Agreement was obtained on 6 April 1959, marking a significant advancement toward the implementation of Brunei's constitution.[27] The outcome of the deal that satisfied the main requests of the Brunei Constitutional Committee in 1954, which included the appointment of a Menteri Besar and the adoption of staggered implementation measures beginning on 1 July.[28]

The Menteri Besar (Chief Minister), the Secretary of State, the General, the State Finance Officer, and the Religious Advisor are the five administrators chosen under this constitution. Dato Ibrahim bin Mohammad Jahfar was Brunei's first Menteri Besar.[2] On 29 September 1959, the constitution of Brunei was signed in Brunei Town. The agreement was signed by the sultan and Sir Robert Scott, the Commissioner-General for Southeast Asia.[29] The British delegation was led by Alan Lennox-Boyd, 1st Viscount Boyd of Merton who was the Secretary of State for the Colonies. The British Government later accepted the draft constitution.[30]

Among the things stated in the constitution were: The Sultan was made the Supreme Head of State. Brunei was responsible for its internal administration. The British Government was now responsible for foreign and defence affairs only. The post of Resident was abolished and replaced by a British High Commissioner.[31] Additionally, the five councils that were set up are: Executive Council, Legislative Council (LegCo), Privy Council, Council Of Succession and the State Religious Council.[32]

...The success which we had get in this year (1959) had attract and made us happy, especially as a victory which our people had dreamed of, that is the Written Constitution for Brunei. With this Constitution, our country now faced one great change. With the enforcement of this Written Constitution, which, hopefully, can be enforced, this mean Brunei will had its internal self government.

— Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, on his Titah on his 43rd Birthday celebration on 23 September 1959

Economic growth and infrastructure[edit]

Brunei saw fast growth in its oil industry between 1950 and 1967, with the first oil platform in Brunei was constructed off Seria in 1952. Omar Ali Saifuddien officially opened the B$14 million gas pipeline installation three years later. The Seria oil field produced 114,700 tons of oil per day a year later.[2] Initiated in 1953, the first National Development Plan (NDP) lasted five years. E. R. Bevington served as the National Development Commissioner during the time.[33] He was designated to present Brunei with any new plans. The LegCo allocated $100 million for this project in July 1953. One of the primary goals of this plan is to supply enough water, create bridges, telephones, buildings, and electric power plants for the convenience of Bruneians, and widen highways for communication.[2]

A deepwater Muara Port was also constructed under the plan. Power requirements were met and studies were made to provide electricity to rural areas.[34] Efforts were made to eradicate malaria, with the help of the World Health Organization, under the plan. Efforts were successful, bringing the down the cases of malaria from 300 cases in 1953 to only 66 cases in 1959. The death rate was also brought down from 20 per thousand in 1947 to 11.3 per thousand in 1953. This has been attributed to public sanitation and improvement of drainage and the provision of piped pure water to the population.[35]

The newly built Brunei Airport as seen in late 1962

Developments on education were made, as well as a written policy on education in 1952. By 1958, expenditure on education totaled B$4 million.[33] Communications were also improved with new roads built and reconstruction works at Brunei Airport being completed at 1954. A $14 million gas industrial plant was built under the plan. In 1954, survey and exploration works were undertaken by Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) on both offshore and onshore fields. By 1956, production reached 114,700 bpd.[36] The BSP was founded in 1957. With 705,000 tons of natural gasoline (gasoline) produced from gas pipeline planting in Seria, the yield of crude oil has reached 39.5 million tons.[2]

Aerial photograph of Brunei Town in c. 1960

The Second NDP was launched in 1962.[36] This strategy aims to propel Brunei's economic and social development to new heights. One obvious indicator of economic growth is the area that has been turned over to commercial rice farming, which will improve the nation's agricultural sector and lessen the need to import rice from overseas. For their own knowledge and as a result of exporting goods outside, people can also learn how to grow coffee, bananas, wheat, peanuts, and other crops.[2] The plan also saw an increase of production of meat and eggs. The fishing industry increased its output by 25% throughout the course of the plan.[34]

Brunei's first state election was held on 30 and 31 August 1962. This was to elect members to sit in the Brunei LegCo. These elected members would then be involved in discussions of governmental policies. Despite this, the Sultan still held absolute power and authority in the government. Among the political parties which contested in the election were PRB, Barisan Nasional Organisation (BNO), and Brunei United Party (BUP). The polling went on for two days, which ended with the PRB winning the election.[37]

A major oil and gas field was discovered in 1963, with this discovery, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) became important. Developments in the oil and gas sector has continued actively and oil production has steadily increased since then.[34] He had launched the first delivery of a 10-inch oil pipeline from the seabed off the coast of the Seria oil field on 28 October 1964.[36]

Omar Ali Saifuddien delivering a titah through Radio Brunei in 1962, from Istana Darul Hana

Merger with Malaysia and the 1962 revolt[edit]

When Tunku Abdul Rahman, the prime minister of the Federation of Malaya announced his proposal for a merger of Singapore, North Borneo, Sarawak, and Brunei, Omar Ali Saifuddien saw this as an opportunity for Brunei to achieve independence from British influence. He sent a congratulatory telegraph to Tunku Abdul Rahman, showing his support for the merger.[38] For him, Brunei as a small country, still needed a protection of a larger country; the only way to achieve this was by merging with Malaysia and the rest of the states. This view was also shared by Lee Kuan Yew, the then-prime minister of Singapore.[39][40] The Sultan considered the Federation of Malaya's proposals more carefully before making the ultimate decision because it may have an impact on Brunei's nationality, the country, and the future of religion. When the Malaysian Solidarity Consultative Committee (MSCC) initially convened in Jesselton in August 1961, Brunei abstained from the proceedings. The MSCC had its second debate in Kuching in December 1961, followed by the third debate in Kuala Lumpur, in January 1962.[2]

Personnel of the Queen's Own Highlanders on a river patrol around Seria in 1962

The PRB, including its leader who had considerable popular support, Azahari was against the merger. According to them, if Brunei was to join the Federation, Brunei would not have achieve full independence as it was viewed as a transfer of power from Britain to Malaya. On 8 December 1962, the PRB led a rebellion against the government. With British military aid deployed from Singapore, the rebellion was later crushed and the PRB were defeated.[41] Notably, the 2nd Gurkha Rifles was sent to Brunei in 1962, the year the Brunei Revolt started. Omar Ali Saifuddien and his son, Hassanal Bolkiah was saved from his palace by Digby Willoughby and a small group of Gurkha soldiers, earning the Sultan's unwavering gratitude.[42]

After the rebellion, the discussion of joining the proposed North Borneo Federation continued. Omar Ali Saifuddien sent a delegation to attend meetings of the Malaysian Solidarity Consolidation Committee (MSCC). The views of the people were sought by the committee, which was chaired by Chief Minister of Brunei Dato Marsal bin Maun.[43] Notably, Omar Ali Saifuddien decided in 1963 to open religious classes for adults. It aims to provide a better understanding for the people about the importance of obeying Allah, the Prophet and the Ruler. This practice, initiated by an emergency meeting of the Religious Affairs Committee on 7 January 1963, aimed to foster and protect loyalty to the Sultan.[44]

Angus Mackintosh and Omar Ali Saifuddien leaving the Brunei Airport Building in late 1963

In 1963, a meeting was held to discuss the prospect of Brunei joining Malaysia. Still, arguments arose due to differences about taxes. Omar Ali Saifuddien considered the discussion and held off on making a fast decision since he was offended by Tunku Abdul Rahman's proposals. Singapore and Brunei were not present when the Malaysia Agreement was signed in London in July 1963. The Federation of Malaysia was established in September 1963, but Brunei chose not to join the federation for its own reasons.[2] Even the initial date for the federation (which was 31 August 1963) was postponed to 16 September, no agreement was reached between the two sides.[1]

First of all, Omar Ali Saifuddien disagrees with the Federal (Central) Government, which only permits Brunei to retain and profit from its oil production for ten years, following which the Federal Government will acquire the oil production proceeds. Furthermore, because the Head of the Association regarded him as holding the lowest status among the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, he disapproved of the planned rotational structure for the Agong's appointment. The proposed five-year term for Omar Ali Saifuddien to serve as Malaysia's Yang Di-Pertuan Agong is another point of contention for the people of Brunei.[2]

Establishment of Islamic education[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddien established a school where students may only learn Arabic, carrying on his tradition of developing Islamic education. On 24 September 1964, he laid the "foundation stone" for the Hassanal Bolkiah Boys' Arabic Secondary School, which would become the nation's first Arabic-language institution. At this occasion, he discussed his goals for the institution:[45]

The government is interested at this time to establish religious secondary schools with appropriate educational policies in accordance with the progress of time. They must learn Islamic knowledge, Sharī’ah, and Arabic language as well as knowledge of the country and the modern sciences.

— Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, 24 September 1964

The creation of local religious instructors from pupils who finished seven grades was one of the direct results of Omar Ali Saifuddien's religious education program. These "trained religious teachers" had to pass a specific exam and attend weekly sessions in order to become "Untrained Teachers." On 22 May 1966, evening religious training sessions were instituted five days a week for a year in order to improve their abilities and enable them become completely qualified "Trained Religious Teachers."[46]

Abdication[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddien seen at his son, Hassanal Bolkiah's coronation in 1967

On 4 October 1967, after 17 years in reign, Omar Ali Saifuddien declared his voluntary abdication in favor of his 21-year-old oldest son, Crown Prince Hassanal Bolkiah.[47][48] After the announcement, the Crown Prince went back to Brunei before completing his education at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to take over his father's position as head of state and people.[49][2] The announcement was made on Radio Brunei at night by Pengiran Pemancha Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, the Ketua Adat Istiadat.[50]

Whereas I am happy to tell from the feelings of my word in declaring to the Government and all the citizens and residents of Brunei is that I will abdicate the Throne on 4 October 1967 is fixed and final and irrevocable.

— Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III announced his abdication on 4 October 1967

The 29th Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Muiz'zaddin Wad'daulah, was crowned the next day, 5 October 1967, at 3:00 p.m. in Balai Singgahsana Istana Darul Hana. During the event, state dignitaries like the Wazir, Cheteria, Acting Menteri Besar, and members of the Legislative Council (LegCo) were present.[50] The Peristewa 4hb. Oktober (4th October Event) is the name given to the historic night that shocked the entire nation.[51] Apart from abdicating the throne, Omar Ali Saifuddien has chosen to become Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan (His Highness the Retired Sultan).[52][6] His spouse, Pengiran Anak Damit, will become Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Suri Seri Begawan.[51] He would hold this title until his death in 1986.[6]

The President of the Council declared that on 4 October 1967, His Royal Highness Maulana Al Sultan Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien has, pursuant to Chapter 19 of the Proclamation of the Coronation of King and Regent in 1950, declared that his intention cannot be withdrawn, to retire from the throne. The National Assembly, in its conference session on 4 October 1967 confirms the installation of His Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Hassanal Bolkiah, the Crown Prince as the rightful heir under the law to His greatness as the Sultan of Brunei.

— Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Haji Muhammad Yusof bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim, on 5 October 1967

Later life[edit]

Hassanal Bolkiah and Omar Ali Saifuddien (seated, middle) at the opening of the 1967 LegCo

Even after his abdication in 1967, Omar Ali Saifuddien continued to be involved in matters pertaining to the lives of the people, counselling and mentoring his oldest son in the roles of both a politician and a father.[6]

On 23 November 1971, Omar Ali Saifuddien was there when the 1959 Agreement modification, Brunei–British Friendship Agreement, was signed in Bandar Seri Begawan.[53] He was conferred with the Honorary Grand Commander of the Victorian Order (GCVO) by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Brunei on 29 February 1972.[54] In 1978, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah headed a delegation to London with Omar Ali Saifuddien to discuss Brunei's independence with the British government. As a consequence, Britain was relieved of its responsibility for overseeing Brunei's military and foreign policy with the signing of the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation on 1 January 1984.[55]

At the stroke of midnight on 31 December 1983 in a public event held at the Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien Park, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah officially proclaimed that Brunei Darussalam had achieved its independence and sovereignty after 97 years of British protection. Soon after the reading of the declaration, Omar Ali Saifuddien led masses of people chanting Allahu Akbar (God is Great) three times. This was followed by the singing of the national anthem, a 21-gun salute by the Royal Brunei Land Forces and a prayer was read by the State Mufti for God to bless the newly independent nation.[56]

Although he had abdicated for years and Brunei had achieved its independence, he continued to play an important role after his appointed by the Sultan as Minister of Defence in Brunei's first cabinet ministers and consequently conferred the rank of Field Marshal in the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.[57][58] He also welcomed the arrival of Yasser Arafat, the Chairman of Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) on his official visit to Brunei on 26 July 1984.[59] Additionally, he granted audience from both Commander Thomas Anthony Boam and Commander L. B. Moerdani in 1985.[60]

Death and funeral[edit]

Istana Darussalam in 2022

On 7 September 1986, Omar Ali Saifuddien passed away in Istana Darussalam at the age of 71.[61] It was reported that he has been sick for weeks prior to his death.[62][63] He was granted a state funeral the following day, which Radio Television Brunei covered, proceeded by a lying in state at the Istana Nurul Iman. Prior to being taken to the neighboring Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque for a funeral prayer, his body was first placed in state at the Lapau. His royal standard flag was put over the coffin, which was pulled by a horse during the funeral procession throughout the capital. Along with his wife, father, Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II, grandfather, Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin, and eldest brother and immediate predecessor Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin, he was laid to rest at Bandar Seri Begawan's Kubah Makam Di Raja.[64]

... As a son of a dear father, I still feel the feelings of sadness and grief, and will always be felt, which is not limited to a period of time. Because his death is a great loss for me and my family. Moreover, he is not only a father who always pour a friendly affection to his children, he always gave me advice up to the end of his life.

— Hassanal Bolkiah, in his speech broadcast by Radio Television Brunei, October 20, 1986

Notable state dignitaries and foreign leaders whom attended the funeral were:[65]

Several foreign leaders had attended the funeral and given their quotes about Omar Ali Saifuddien.

I know the Paduka Seri (Sir Omar) since 1959. My late father was so close to him. I also highly respect him because to me he was a brilliant man

— Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang, in an interview with Utusan Malaysia journalist, 25 April 1984

The Late Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien III is a honourable special friend to Britain. His death were deeply felt by the United Kingdom.

— Queen of the United Kingdom, Elizabeth II

The Late Highness had a vision, for sightedness and wise leadership coupled with his outstanding services to his people.

— President of Bangladesh, Hussain Muhammad Ershad

The Late Highness had a unique position in the history of Brunei and in the hearts of all who knew him in Britain.

— British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher

Foreign policy[edit]

Sir Edward Hallstrom and Omar Ali Saifuddien (carrying a koala) at Taronga Park Zoological Gardens in Sydney, 1964

Limbang dispute[edit]

Upon his accession to the throne, Omar Ali Saifuddien maintained his predecessor's stance that the territories of Labuan and Limbang be returned to Brunei. Although Sarawak and Sabah had been a long time ago separated from Brunei, he advocated for their possible reunification into the Sultanate as well and a recreation of the old territorial extent of British Borneo.[69] The Bruneian administration continued to demand the district's restitution from the Malaysian government until 1950. The Limbang dispute resurfaced in 1973 following the escape of Zaini Ahmad of the PRB together with seven other detainees via Limbang. Zaini was granted political asylum in Malaysia and was also permitted to open an office of the PRB. In response, the government of Brunei revived their claim to the Limbang.[6][70]

In actuality, Omar Ali Saifuddien was able to gather petitions from residents of the Lower Limbang expressing their wish to join Brunei by sailing up the Limbang River in a launch. As a result of the Sarawak government's anti-Brunei protests and Brunei's recall of all its students enrolled at Malaysian universities, there was a negative impact on relations between the two countries.[6] This advocacy continued even after he abdicated.[69]

Notable visits during his reign[edit]

Personal life[edit]

Family[edit]

Family photo of Omar Ali Saifuddien in 1965
Omar Ali Saifuddien (right) at the wedding of his son, Hassanal Bolkiah, on 29 July 1965

In 1937, Omar Ali Saifuddien married his first wife Dayang Siti Amin binti Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Setia Laila Diraja Awang Haji Hashim, but the couple had no children and later divorced in 1944.[75] At Istana Banderung Kayangan on 6 September 1941,[76] he married his cousin as his second wife, Pengiran Anak Damit binti Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman. After meeting with a representative of the Limbang pengirans and Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin in February 1941, Gerard MacBryan was able to effectively arrange settlements with both parties, resulting in Omar Ali Saifuddien receiving Straits $2,000 as a wedding present.[9] She was the great-granddaughter of Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin. They had 10 children:

On 13 September 1979, his wife, Paduka Suri Seri Begawan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit died. After that, for the last time, he married Pengiran Bini Pengiran Anak Hajah Salhah binti Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman, who was also his sister-in-law.[78]

Personal interests[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddien made a design of flowers on his clothes, the "Tenunan Brunei" which he wore on several occasions. Also, he was interested in self-defence martial arts such as silat and kuntao.[79] Apart from that, he was also known for designing the national medals. Additionally, he has written numerous poems that express his majesty's desire to struggle for the nation's independence are among his well-known works:[2]

  • Syair Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei [Brunei State Constitution Poem] (in Malay). 1960.
  • Rampaian Laila Syair (in Malay). 1966.
    • Syair Laila Hasrat
    • Syair Laila Cinta
    • Syair Laila Jenaka
  • Syair Asli Rajang Hari [Traditional Horoscope Poem] (in Malay). 1967.
  • Syair Nasihat [Verses of Advice] (in Malay).
  • Syair Perkakas Pekarangan (in Malay).
  • Syair Rajang Jawi (in Malay).
  • Syair Kemerdekaan [Independence Poem] (in Malay). 1984.

Legacy[edit]

With his commitment to social welfare, healthcare, and education, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien made Brunei a modern Islamic state, gaining him the moniker "Architect of Modern Brunei."[80] The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque stands as a permanent homage to his long legacy, and the people of Brunei continue to be moved by his magnanimous reign and visionary leadership.[81] His son, Hassanal Bolkiah, emphasised the contributions made by Omar Ali Saifuddien to the development of the nation and country during his 2007 titah honoring the 22nd National Day. There is no comparable for Omar Ali Saifuddien's national development efforts, which he made selflessly and without external pressure.[80]

Admiration of Winston Churchill[edit]

He was a keen admirer of the wartime British Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill.[82] It housed the only museum in the whole world devoted exclusively to the former British prime minister. Now that Churchill's famed Victory sign monument, which stood at about 8 feet (2.4 m) tall.[82] In 1971, his admiration became clear when his son opened the world's only museum solely dedicated to Winston Churchill and it was named the Churchill Memorial Building, Bandar Seri Begawan which costed an estimated $5 million.[83] The opening ceremony was attended by Churchill's daughter Mary Soames.[74] Since its opening, it had been a notable tourist attraction in Brunei and also became well known throughout Southeast Asia.[84] In 1992, in conjunction with Silver Jubilee of His Majesty's Ascension to the Throne celebrations, the memorial had become the Royal Brunei Regalia Building.[82] The monument is now in storage.[82] Also in 2017, the building was renamed to Royal Regalia Museum in conjunction with the Golden Jubilee.

Namesakes[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque
Jalan Sultan Omar 'Ali Saifuddien

Appearance in currency[edit]

  • His portrait is depicted on the obverse of the 1967 issue of coins. The reverse of these coins, and all subsequent series, was designed by Christopher Ironside OBE. The coins issued were 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent.[96]
  • His portrait appears on all the first issue notes (dated 1967) in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50 and 100 ringgit/dollar.
  • His portrait is also depicted on Brunei's current issue 500 ringgit/dollar notes dated 2006 and 2013.
  • An image of him crowning his son as his successor appears on the reverse of the commemorative 25 ringgit/dollar note dated 1992.

Honours[edit]

Portrait of Omar Ali Saifuddien in his full military dress

The honours given to him is as follows:[97]

National

Main article: Orders, decorations, and medals of Brunei

Foreign

References[edit]

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Bibliography[edit]

Omar Ali Saifuddien III
Born: 23 September 1914
Regnal titles
Preceded by Sultan of Brunei
1950–1967 		Succeeded by
Political offices
New title
Position established
 Minister of Defence of Brunei
1 January 1984 – 7 September 1986 		Succeeded by
Bruneian royalty
Preceded by Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara
1947–1950 		Succeeded by
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Omar_Ali_Saifuddien_III&oldid=1232959381"