His Majesty was born on the 15th July 1946 at a time of peace after the storm of the Second World War. His birth was a welcome relief in the atmosphere of austerity which pervaded in every Bruneian home at that time.


Through his upbringing and education both at home and abroad His Majesty has sampled myriad aspects of life' fostering a unique sense of balance and understanding invaluable in a ruler.


These qualities he combines with a sense of family values' benevolence and generosity rare in modern times. Moreover' the military training he received at Sandhurst in his early years instilled in him a respect for discipline and organisation; a necessary prerequisite in order to govern with confidence and skill' aiding in difficult decision-making processes and ensuring competent command over the country's armed forces.