BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (pic) has called on all sectors of society to uphold and preserve the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy across generations as the foundation of the country’s identity and sovereignty.
In a titah at the opening of the Majlis Ilmu 2026 or Knowledge Convention 2026 at the International Convention Centre in Berakas on Saturday (Nov 7), His Majesty emphasised that MIB must be understood, embraced and practised by all levels of society to strengthen the identity of an independent and sovereign nation.
His Majesty said MIB should not be regarded merely as an expression or slogan, but as the foundation of the country’s history, religious values and distinct system of governance.
His Majesty noted that the theme of this year’s Majlis Ilmu was “Melayu Islam Beraja: Tonggak Kedaulatan Negara” (Malay Islamic Monarchy: Pillar of National Sovereignty).
MIB, His Majesty said, was not foreign to the people of Brunei, as it had been declared the country’s national philosophy during the Proclamation of Independence on January 1, 1984.
Elaborating on its three components, His Majesty said Malay reflects the identity, language, customs and culture that form part of the identity of the people and the nation.
Islam serves as the guiding light for faith, syariah and morality, as well as the conduct of national life, while Monarchy represents the governing institution responsible for safeguarding religion, security and the welfare of the people and country.
His Majesty stressed that independence could not be separated from the MIB philosophy, while sovereignty was something that everyone must uphold and defend.
This responsibility, His Majesty said, was not confined to the Government but was a shared trust that must be carried collectively.
His Majesty expressed confidence that Brunei, grounded in MIB, would continue to be respected and held in high regard, with future generations growing into a progressive generation that works diligently to advance the country to world standards.
His Majesty also called on all parties to ensure MIB remained alive within families, communities, the education system, public and private sectors, religious institutions and national life.
His Majesty further expressed hope that the philosophy would continue to be strengthened and preserved by each successive generation, serving not only to define the nation’s identity and origins but also to guide its future direction. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
