POLITICAL SYSTEM

Brunei Darussalam is an absolute monarchy, where His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam serves as the Head of State and Government, holding authority over religious, political, legislative and executive matters. The Constitution grants the Sultan executive powers, which are supported and advised by five key councils. The Privy Council is responsible for constitutional amendments and ceremonial customs; the Religious Council advises on Islamic matters and helps draft religious laws; the Council of Ministers is tasked with administrative functions and policy approvals, the Legislative Council oversees legislative processes; and the Council of Succession determines matters of royal succession.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzadin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has reigned since 1967, and is currently the world’s longest-serving monarch. His Majesty also serves a Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance and Economy. Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince of Brunei Darussalam holds the role of Senior Minister of the Prime Minister's Office.