His Majesty the Sultan’s Birthday
Hassanal Bolkiah, the eldest son of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Raja Isteri (Queen) Pengiran Anak Damit, was born on July 15, 1946. Following his father's resignation on October 5th 1967, he became Crown Prince in 1961 and succeeded to the throne as Sultan of Brunei. On August 1, 1968, His Majesty the Sultan was crowned with pomp and splendor in keeping with Brunei's historic customs and traditions. He is Brunei's 29th Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan, continuing a nearly uninterrupted succession that dates back to the 14th century. He also serves as Prime Minister of Brunei, making him one of the few absolute monarchs in the world.
The Sultan's Birthday - one of the most famous festivals in Brunei, is usually followed by two weeks of outdoor food bazaars that line the capital's streets and parking lots, along with traditional dances and local music performances. It's a pleasant experience that shouldn't be missed in a city that generally turns silent at night. This Sultan's Birthday is observed all around the country, with the day commencing with mass prayers. After that, His Majesty the Sultan gives a royal address, followed by an investiture ceremony at the Istana Nurul Iman. Then there are gatherings in each of the four districts, where His Majesty greets and congregates with his subjects.
Date: July 15th
