BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, June 5 – Popular Brunei royal Prince Abdul Mateen has been appointed as Brunei’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs following a major Cabinet reshuffle announced by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
The appointment marks a significant milestone in Prince Abdul Mateen’s public service career and is being viewed as one of the most important changes in Brunei’s government in recent years.
The announcement was made during a televised address by Sultan Hassanal on Thursday as part of the country’s first Cabinet reshuffle since 2022. Prince Abdul Mateen, the Sultan’s third son, takes over the Foreign Affairs portfolio, a position previously held by the Sultan himself.
Known internationally for his active role in royal engagements, diplomatic visits and international events, Prince Abdul Mateen has become one of the most recognisable members of Brunei’s royal family. His appointment is expected to strengthen Brunei’s diplomatic presence on the global stage while introducing a younger face to the country’s foreign policy leadership.
The Cabinet reshuffle comes at a crucial time as Brunei navigates global economic uncertainty and rising energy-related challenges. The nation is also preparing for the Diamond Jubilee celebration of Sultan Hassanal next year, marking nearly six decades of his reign.
Despite appointing his son to the key foreign affairs role, Sultan Hassanal will continue serving as Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Minister of Finance, maintaining his leadership over the country’s major government portfolios.
The reshuffle also saw the appointment of Prince Abdul Malik as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, while Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah retained his position as Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department.
Political observers have noted that the appointment of Prince Abdul Mateen and other members of the royal family to senior government positions may signal a gradual transition toward a new generation of leadership in Brunei.
In addition to the appointments, the government announced several reforms, including the creation of new ministerial positions and the restructuring of ministries to strengthen economic diversification and sustainable growth.
Prince Abdul Mateen’s appointment has attracted widespread attention both within Brunei and internationally. As the country’s new top diplomat, he is expected to play a key role in managing Brunei’s foreign relations, regional cooperation and international partnerships in the years ahead.
