Besides being the Sultan and the Ruler, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah is concurrently the Prime Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister, and head of the religion of Brunei Darussalam. Being a working monarch, he is involved in the conduct of the State affairs internally and internationally.

Like his illustrious father, who is fondly remembered as the Architect of Modern Brunei, His Majesty is a caring monarch and tirelessly works for the continued well-being of his people. In addition to the usual day-to-day administration of the government and receiving foreign dignitaries. His Majesty is always on the move, visiting government departments and related institutions, security forces on military maneuvers, and villages including remote parts of the State. This brings him very close to the people, who love and revere him.

The promotion and strengthening of relations with the outside world also get top priority from His Majesty. He has traveled widely in Southeast Asia, East Asia, The Middle East, Europe, and the United States. He addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Brunei Darussalam's admission to the UN in September, 1984.

His Majesty takes great interests in sports, including polo in which he has excelled in matches against international teams both locally and outside of the State.

One of His Majesty's remarkable achievements was the setting up of the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation in 1992. The foundation is a gift of His Majesty to his people and is devoted to, among other things, financing research-related works, particularly in the fields of knowledge.

His Majesty is married to Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajjah Saleha and has ten children - four princes and six princesses.

His Majesty's official residence is the Istana Nurul Iman, which is also the country's seat of administration.

(Provided by the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in China)