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In this Malay name, there is no surname or family name. The name Muhammad Jamalul Alam II is a patronymic, and the person should be referred to by their given name, Ahmad Tajuddin. The word "bin" or "binti"/"binte" means 'son of' or 'daughter of', respectively.
Ahmad Tajuddin
أحمد تاج الدين
Formal portrait, c. 1934
Sultan of Brunei
Reign11 September 1924 – 4 June 1950
Coronation17 March 1940
PredecessorMuhammad Jamalul Alam II
SuccessorOmar Ali Saifuddien III
BornAhmad Tajuddin Akhazul Khairi Waddien
(1913-08-22)22 August 1913
Istana Pekan, Brunei Town, Brunei
Died4 June 1950(1950-06-04) (aged 36)
Singapore General Hospital, Colony of Singapore
Burial
Kubah Makam Di Raja, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
SpousesKadayang Amas
​
(m. 1934)​
IssuePengiran Anak Siti Saerah
Pengiran Anak Siti Zubaidah
Pengiran Anak Siti Halimah
Princess Nor Ehsani
Names
Sultan Sir Ahmad Tajuddin Akhazul Khairi Waddien ibni Sultan Sir Muhammad Jamalul Alam II
HouseBolkiah
FatherSultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II
MotherPengiran Anak Fatimah
ReligionIslam

Ahmad Tajuddin Akhazul Khairi Waddien (Jawi: أحمد تاج الدين اعكاظ الخير والدين‎; 22 August 1913 – 4 June 1950) was the 27th Sultan of Brunei from 1924 until his death in 1950. He was succeeded by his younger brother Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III.[1]

Ahmad Tajuddin has been disregarded by Malcolm MacDonald and frequently ignored and mishandled by others like his Gerard MacBryan.[2] He advocated for the Sultanate to have more financial and political autonomy in a way that was innovative for his day. This, along with his support for a new political confederation governed by the Sultanate over northern Borneo, foreshadowed much of the political process that started in the late 1950s and culminated in January 1984 with the official declaration of Brunei's independence from Britain.

Early life and education

[edit]

Ahmad Tajuddin was born on 22 August 1913 at Istana Pekan in Brunei Town during the reign of his father, Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II. He was his father's eldest son through his royal consort, Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Siti Fatimah. Ahmad Tajuddin's older brother, Pengiran Muda Bongsu had died in 1910. His younger brother, Pengiran Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien succeeded him after his death. Before becoming the sultan, he was known as Pengiran Muda Besar Ahmad Tajuddin.[3]

He received his early education in the palace prior attending formal school. One of the teachers who had been assigned to teach him was Cikgu Salleh Haji Masri.[3] Salleh Haji Masri was one of the famous freedom fighters with anti-colonial sentiments. Ahmad Tajuddin sailed for England, United Kingdom in 1932. According to reports, his mother obstructed the efforts of British Resident Eric Ernest Falk Pretty to transfer him to Malaya or England for his education; nonetheless, he started receiving English instruction from a specially assigned British instructor at the age of fourteen.[4] He had learned English from Mr. H.F. Stalley. He was in England for a year to learn the English language and a description of the western civilisation.[5] He was the first Sultan in history to explore the western world more than his father, who had only sailed to Singapore and Labuan.[6]

Reign

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Early reign

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Ahmad Tajuddin was eleven years old when he ascended to the throne as Yang di-Pertuan on 11 September 1924, following the untimely death of his father at the age of 35. Although his father's official cause of death was listed as malaria, there was no formal inquiry held, and there were strong rumours that he had been poisoned by a close relative.[2] An important historical point is that Brunei began exploring for oil during the rule of Ahmad Tajuddin, and in April 1929, an oil well in Seria was found, providing the country with income. This was acknowledged by the British Government, which resulted in the settling down of British Residents into Brunei.[7]

Due to his young age of 11, the reign was temporarily held by a Council of Regency which consisted of Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman and Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammad Yassin (also known as "the two wicked uncles") from 11 September 1924 to 19 September 1931,[8] they served as joint Regents during his seven-year minority and were said to have had a negative influence on him along with his mother. He was supposedly given a concubine at the age of thirteen, and while he was taking English lessons from a British tutor, his mother reportedly blocked efforts to send him overseas for school. It was also said that he periodically cooked his own food in soda water out of fear of poisoning.[9]

A lavish celebration was thrown in Brunei upon his return from England. Attendees included people from nearby Sabah and Sarawak, who continued to view him as their Sultan. A traditional boat racing on the Brunei River, fireworks from Japan, and a large number of guests from other areas filled the town's residences. Large fires were built on the nearby hills, and buildings were adorned with lanterns and multicoloured lights at night, illuminating the entire town and fostering a lively, celebratory atmosphere.[10]

Relations with the British Residency

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Unlike his father, who had fiercely opposed the Resident's 1909 Land Code, which affected the Kedayan minority, Ahmad Tajuddin's timidity helped to strengthen the British Resident's authority and prevented serious crises during his regency and early reign. However, his resistance was subdued by threats of deposition. Both Ahmad Tajuddin and his grandfather, Sultan Hashim, depended on foreigners to handle their business rather than his residents: Hashim relied on an independent Englishman, and Tajuddin on a Malayan private secretary and Gerard MacBryan.[11]

Ahmad Tajuddin and Patrick McKerron in 1930

Between 1931 and 1950, Ahmad Tajuddin expressed his discontent with Brunei's political system by frequently abstaining from State Council meetings, ostensibly opposing the Resident's authority. Additionally, he appointed Inche Mohamad Hassan bin Kulop Mohamad from Selangor or Perak as his personal assistant, described by an Englishwoman as highly capable and fluent in English, thus enabling the Sultan to rely on him to carry out his wishes effectively. In October 1931, he undertook a three-week trip to Malaya, followed by an extended stay in Britain from July 1932 to August 1933, ostensibly to improve his English language skills. Ahmad Tajuddin was characterised as a tiny, bespectacled guy with long hair who drove in a luxurious Lincoln automobile and was carried in a gold and scarlet litter during formal rituals during a 1935 visit by Sir Shenton Thomas.[11]

It wasn't until he turned eighteen on 19 September 1931, that he attained full sovereignty.[9] Ahmad Tajuddin traveled to Peninsular Malaya from 1 to 21 October 1931, and then, in July 1932, he became the first Sultan of Brunei to travel to England,[12] where he spent around ten months, to observe the changes that had taken place there. He didn't return to Brunei until August 1933, after a protracted visit. As an honorary aide-de-camp (ADC), Pengiran Mohammad bin Pengiran Abdul Rahman Piut accompanied him on both occasions. Pengiran Anak Besar Bagol, his brother, was then named ADC.[13]

Ahmad Tajuddin was known for his hospitality and respect towards guests, including high-ranking visitors such as Rajah Charles Vyner Brooke, whom he hosted at his own residence, Istana Mahkota, in 1934. He treated his friends and peers with generosity and equality, often giving gifts and maintaining an informal demeanour during social events, though he would subtly distance himself from those who sought to take advantage of his kindness.[10] Despite this, he and his family began to feel uneasy with the out distribution of Brunei's wealth from oil exports and for that reason, he encouraged the British government to ease financial regulations for the people of Brunei. In an attempt to suppress the Sultan, his living allowance was raised from $1,000 to $1,500 in 1934, and again was again given an increase of $500 a month in 1938. The Government of the United Kingdom gifted him a car in 1939.[3]

Following the royal conventions of both Brunei and Selangor, he married Tengku Raihani, the daughter of Sultan of Selangor, Alauddin Sulaiman Shah, in a ceremony performed in Istana Mahkota Puri, Klang, on 30 April 1934.[14] Masjid Jami'ah Al-Rahmah in Klang hosted his akad nikah (marriage contract). He was escorted by his mother, brother, public officials, and a royal guard. He visited Klang once more in October, having returned to Brunei in July. Tengku Raihani accompanied him when he returned to Brunei in November 1934, and they were greeted with great fanfare.[10] This marriage improved relations between the Bruneian and Selangor royal dynasties.[15] She would later be crowned on 15 October 1935, and carried the name Tengku Ampuan Raihani.[3]

Early in August 1935, 23-year-old Ahmad Tajuddin wore spectacles, was short in stature, and had unusually long hair, was spotted by Sir Shenton Thomas, the newly appointed Commissioner for the Malay States, on his visit to Brunei.[11] Thomas spoke about the Sultan's stately entry in a sumptuous red and gold litter pulled by thirty men, as well as the reception hall's simple design that used cheap items like Brunei cigarettes and German carpets. He had to deal with his wife's defying Bruneian conventions and perhaps dangerous journey to Klang for the birth of their kid at a period of intense pressure from his brother-in-law, Tengku Kelana Jaya Petra. The British Resident of Selangor offered Thomas advice and assistance, but the Selangor family persisted, and on 15 October 1935, Ahmad Tajuddin and his party flew to Klang, where their daughter Princess (Tengku) Nor Ehsani was born.[16]

By 1936, there had been several arguments between Ahmad Tajuddin and his Resident as their relationship was failing. Acting High Commissioner A. S. Small observed that as the Sultan became older and more self-assured, he became more and more problematic. After previous Resident Pretty was dispatched to Brunei to resolve these difficulties and defuse tensions, the Colonial Office decided to designate more senior officers as Residents going forward.[16] He was greeted cordially by the people of Kuala Belait on his official visit there after attending the Sultan of Selangor's golden jubilee in 1937. Later in August, once again he and his family went to Selangor to attend the golden jubilee celebration of Sultan Alauddin. On his return in December, he went for an official visit to Kuala Belait and to formally declare open a newly built Recreation Club. The visit was received with great joy by the people and the inhabitants there even people from the interior came to town to join in the celebration and to have a look at their Sultan.[10]

The relationship between the Sultan and the British soured when John Graham Black was appointed as the British Resident in 1937. The resident attempted to postpone and sabotage his coronation ceremony and this infuriated the Sultan. This caused the resident to be replaced by Ernest Edgar Pengilley on 1 January 1940. Due to the frustration that Black had caused, he was not given a farewell ceremony by the Sultan as he usually did for other residents.[17] Although the Sultan's early behaviour had been difficult and necessitated strong warnings, Thomas wrote to MacDonald in early 1940 that he had demonstrated progress in the previous five years and had no vices. While recognizing the Sultan's difficult childhood, Thomas also emphasised his commitment, which was exemplified in 1939 by a sizeable payment for Imperial defense. As a result, he suggested that Ahmad Tajuddin get a Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (KCMG) during his coronation, thereby making him the only Malay ruler who had not received an honor from the British Crown before. The Commissioner did not attend the coronation, but Robert Irvine, the private secretary, did give a report.[18]

Coronation

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Following the official transfer of power in 1931, his coronation ceremony took place nine years after his elevation to the throne. The event began by him reciting the Qur'an at the Istana Mahkota on 9 November 1939.[19] On Monday, 26 February 1940, the ceremony was inaugurated in Lapau by raising flags and opening the gandang jaga-jaga ceremony, signaling the, signaling the beginning of the event forty days ahead of the actual coronation ceremony. Throughout the period, traditional drumming was heard, and royal decorations were positioned along the parade path. Prior to the coronation, a variety of events were planned, such as dances, martial arts, and regional performances.[15]

The coronation of Ahmad Tajuddin began on 17 March 1940 at 3 p.m. in a spacious, specifically furnished chamber of the Government Office devoid of any furnishings. The yellow-painted throne from the ancient Lapau Council Chamber, complete with a dome and flags, was situated on an elevated platform at one end, accompanied by a yellow silk-covered cushioned chair. The public was standing behind, with European viewers sat on the left and prominent Asian visitors using seats on the right. A wide, railed-off path ran down the middle to prevent onlookers from intruding, and an elevated dais was placed next to the throne for government delegates.[20]

The procession to the Coronation Hall was delayed, causing a delay in the crowning. On the verandah, delegates from Sarawak, Selangor, and British North Borneo had already gathered, and the two Wazirs had come with the Sultan's Crown. After it was ultimately established that the Sultan had arrived at the Lapau, the litter procession started. A jubilant audience, drums, gongs, and trumpets accompanied the Sultan, who was being carried by twenty-four men in a wooden litter painted yellow. The litter, which had a canopy attached to it, was accompanied by a sizable group of chiefs, regalia bearers, and attendants, five of whom held enormous, vividly colored candles. Throughout the parade, the Sultan, wearing a costume of white velvet with golden trimmings, was bareheaded.[20]

The Chief Police Officer of the 24 Brunei Police commanded the guard of honour that the litter carrying him was put in front of. The Sultan inspected the guard before going to the office verandah, where he was met by delegates. The Sultan took the throne as the procession entered the Coronation Hall. A elevated dais was used by the delegates, which included the British Resident. Chiefs, regalia bearers, and attendants arranged themselves around the throne.[20] The Sultan's right and left Wazir were Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman and Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammad Yassin, respectively, were displayed on the platform next to the throne, with the ADC next to the Pemancha. Armored at each corner of the platform were bearers of regalia who carried a variety of ceremonial items, including as weapons and a brazen lion and arm. With a drawn sword resting on his own chest, an attendant knelt before the Sultan. The Pengiran Shahbandar and the principal chiefs faced the platform, which was surrounded by attendants and regalia bearers. Massive candlesticks were positioned at each corner of the platform and behind the throne.[21]



The coronation ceremony was attended by representatives of the British High Commissioner, Rajah Brooke and the Government of North Borneo. In conjunction with his coronation ceremony, King George VI bestowed on him the Companion of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (CMG). Since the 1940s, the Sultan has not attended the State Assembly as a sign of protest against the British resident.[19] He urged the British to accept Bruneians into higher positions of the Brunei Administrative Service (BAS) in order to train and give experiences to local population. For the first time ever in 1941, 25 locals were appointed to serve in the government bureaucracy.[22][21]

With the help of Syed Abdul Aziz Asimi, the school's instructor, Ahmad Tajuddin opened a private Arabic school in Brunei Town in 1940 as a demonstration of his dedication to furthering Islamic education in Brunei. To promote its growth, the school was located in one of his palaces. Even though the school made great strides and its pupils had great success, it was shut down in 1942 when Brunei was occupied by the Japanese.[15]

Second World War

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Ahmad Tajuddin and members of his court in 1941

With the likelihood of war with the Empire of Japan increasing, in 1941, the British began to encourage the establishment of local defence forces in Brunei, and neighbouring Sarawak and Borneo. Ahmad Tajuddin approved the establishment of the Brunei Volunteer Force and Special Police Force to assist the British in stopping the Japanese invasion of Brunei. An estimated 200 Bruneians initially volunteered, but by the time of the invasion few remained and no Allied troops were stationed in Brunei. The Sultan was appointed an Honorary Colonel of the force.[23]

Ahmad Tajuddin's involvement during the Japanese occupation of Brunei, which started after surrendering to the Imperial Japanese Army's Kawaguchi Detachment on 22 December 1941, was mostly symbolic, much like the British approach of keeping local rulers in place but giving them little actual authority.[24] The newly formed Miri province, which comprised sections of Sarawak and Brunei, was included under the Japanese administration, which reduced the Sultan's power while preserving his status as a means of gaining support from the populace. During his visit to Brunei in early 1942, Toshinari Maeda, the Japanese military governor of Miri province, was based in Kuching. He was photographed with his top officers, the Sultan, his brother, and Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammad Yassin.[18]

His function in Brunei during the Japanese occupation was mostly ceremonial; the real government was controlled by the Japanese provincial governor and Inche Ibrahim bin Mohammad Jahfar, the government secretary prior to the war. Despite serving mostly as a symbolic leader, the Sultan was able to bring Labuan, as well as the districts of Limbang, Lawas, and Trusan, back under the nominal authority of Brunei. His initiative, motivated by long-standing animosity over the loss of these regions, was probably evident in this action. Pengiran Muda Omar Ali highlighted the significance of these regions to the Sultanate by openly calling for their restoration once he was crowned Sultan.[18] The Japanese strategy was to maintain the support of their people by allowing the Malay rulers of Malaya and Borneo to remain in position, while denying them any actual authority. He was kept on the throne, while the Wazir and Cheteria continued in their pre–war administrative roles, but doubtless under the command of Japanese military personnel.[25]

Ahmad Tajuddin and Maeda Yoshinori's forces in 1942–1945

During an early 1942 visit to Brunei, Maeda Yoshinori was pictured with his top officers, the Sultan, and Pengiran Anak Besar Bagol. The Japanese continued to recognise the Sultan as the head of the Islamic religion and the Royal Customs so long as he co-operated with them. He was advised by the Japanese to retire and offered a monthly pension together with medals of honour from the Emperor of Japan.[24]

The Borneo Planning Unit of the Colonial Office drew up plans in June 1944 to force Brunei and Sarawak to sign new treaties that would have reduced Brunei to the status of a protectorate under British law, severely undermining the Sultan's authority. Due to military control over the Borneo regions by the United States and then Australia, this plan was put on hold for a while. Negotiated with the Sultan following the battle, the pact sought to give the British complete sovereignty over Brunei. Pre-war Resident Pengilley, however, expected little opposition from the Sultan over the suggested modifications, characterising him as morally deficient and physically inconsequential.[26]

By mid-1945, the Japanese were facing defeat and their forces in Brunei were becoming more violent in their actions toward the populace. Locals were threatened by food shortage during the occupation. A plan was made to save the Sultan and the royal family from the increasing Japanese war crimes. The Sultan and his closest relatives, together with loyal palace officials, were hidden by Pehin Dato Amar Setia Diraja Haji Kassim bin Tamin, the village headman of Kampong Tentaya, Limbang,[27][28][15] in the early months of 1945 due to the intensified Allied bombing of oil installations at Miri and Lutong, as well as the machine-gunning of the Istana Mahkota itself. During the Sultan's absence, a large portion of the palace's contents, including pieces of the royal regalia, were looted. According to a report by Australian physician M. C. Clarke, the Sultan was a colorfully dressed guy in his early thirties who used alcohol, gambling, and partying as ways to escape the trials of his profession. The Sultan's manner remained pretty lighthearted despite the chaos, even striking up conversations with his guests regarding health.[29]

Lieutenant General Leslie Morshead, Ahmad Tajuddin and Major General George Wootten at Bubungan Dua Belas on 29 June 1945

Istana Tantaya had been built in Kampong Tantaya and the Sultan lived there for about three months until Brunei was liberated by the Australian Army.[27] Ahmad Tajuddin was met with great warmth by the Australian 9th Division upon his return to Brunei Town on 17 June 1945. As soon as the Australian military commander arranged for him to be received with a guard of honour and brought to the British Army Headquarters at Bubungan Dua Belas for tea, he made speedy use of medical help for his asthma and was put back in the Istana Mahkota "in protective custody." Despite suspicions of working with the Japanese, investigations proved he had committed no serious crimes, and the British government's pre-war resident Pengilley attested to his allegiance to them prior to the Japanese takeover. Even so, until civilian government was reinstated in July 1946, the Sultan's political power was constrained under the Australian-run British Borneo Civil Affairs Unit and the ensuing British Military Administration.[29]

Following the liberation of Brunei Town by the Australian forces, his personal standard was raised. Until 6 July 1946, when civil government was reinstated, Brunei remained under the control of the Allied Forces. Pengiran Ahmad bin Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohd Yassin, presently known as Pengiran Maharaja Anakda, succeeded his brother Pengiran Anak Besar Bagol, who had died during the occupation, in the role of Sanggamara.[30]

Post-war Brunei

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After Allied bombs severely damaged the Istana Mahkota in early 1945, Ahmad Tajuddin, his spouse, and his family relocated to a small home in Brunei Town. After his demands for a new palace and reimbursement for war damages were turned down, he moved to Kuching in the middle of 1949. There, the Brunei flag was flown from his home, Istana Kechil, and royal pennants adorned his vehicle. The British rationale for defying his demands was centered on higher priorities for post-war reconstruction, namely government buildings and hospitals. Tensions over administrative unification and the nomination of Sarawak officials to posts in the Brunei government heightened when the Governor of Sarawak was named ex officio High Commissioner for Brunei in 1947, further subordinating the Sultanate to Sarawak's authority.[31] He then refused to celebrate his silver jubilee as a sign of protest against the residency after Resident Peel refused to build a new palace.[32]

A welcoming arch was built in Brunei Town upon MacDonald's visit there in late 1946. It included the words "Restorer of Peace and Justice" under the Union Jack and the phrase "Sole Right of the Sultan and His Subjects" beneath the Brunei flag. The arch was meant to send a message to the British government that they had to respect the Sultan's and his subjects' rights if they were to establish peace and security to Brunei. The previous slogan was to be removed, per British orders, but Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin stepped in to support the local teenagers and said he liked their "national spirit" for keeping both slogans.[33]

Secretary of State for the Colonies Arthur Creech Jones accepted MacDonald's recommendation to maintain Brunei's independence from the administrations of North Borneo and Sarawak, upholding pre-war arrangements until new constitutional changes were proposed, as the deadline of 1 July 1946, for restoring civilian government in Brunei drew near. Ahmad Tajuddin started to make more of an effort to establish himself during this time. He most famously protested against Rajah Charles Vyner Brooke's intention to hand over Sarawak to the British Crown in February 1947, saying that Brunei should have been the recipient of any such cession. Resident William John Peel did not appear to endorse his remarks, and there was no sign that the Colonial Office was changing its position on the Sultan or that he was being invited to take part in talks in London.[31]

It was during his reign that saw Brunei have its own national anthem "Allah Peliharakan Sultan", which is similar to "God Save the King" in England. In 1947, the national anthem was composed by Haji Besar bin Sagap and lyrics written by Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Haji Mohammad Yusuf bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim.[34] That same year, he gave his approval to fly the red and white flag of the Youth Front, natively known as the Barisan Pemuda (BARIP), on 12 April, the day of the political party's first yearly anniversary of foundation. It conveyed to the British government that the Sultan was secretly endorsing the BARIP, an organisation that was allegedly disseminating revolutionary ideas in the vein of Indonesia.[35] Later on 15 July, he bestowed the title Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara on his brother, Pengiran Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien.[36]

Due to the ever-rising tension between the Sultan and the British Resident, high commissioner's secretary Pretty was sent to defuse the situation.[37] In August 1948, Pretty was reappointed as a resident in an attempt to repair the relationship with the Malay states including Brunei.[38] He recommended that the Sultan write a letter to the Secretary of State in hopes of the British government paying more attention to hardship and difficulties faced by Brunei. Pretty also made an effort to build the Sultan a new palace after the previous was destroyed in the war.[3]

Silver Jubilee

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Ahmad Tajuddin and Tengku Raihani being paraded during the silver jubilee celebration in 1949

Ahmad Tajuddin was only very reluctantly convinced to attend his own silver jubilee celebration in Brunei on 22 September 1949, by his Kuching friend Datu Bandar Abang Hj. Mustapha and Sarawak's Chief Secretary R. Gordon Aikman. Two weeks prior, he had checked himself into Kuching hospital due to severe illness, purportedly caused by advanced alcohol poisoning. The fact that he had to use some of his allowance to cover the cost of the festivities also made him upset. However, upon his return to Brunei, he decided, or was persuaded, to remain in the nation, with the commencement of work on his new Istana no likely having a major influence.[39]

King George VI gave him the Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) at the event, which was facilitated by the British High Commissioner. The Commissioner General for South East Asia and officials from neighbouring nations attended the event, which consisted of a three-day celebration in Brunei Town and a parallel celebration in Kuala Belait. The event was celebrated with a Thanksgiving Ceremony at Brunei Town Mosque and the issuance of commemorative stamps and Jubilee Medals.[30]

Later reign

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Ahmad Tajuddin alongside Omar Ali Saifuddien III in 1950

While residing in Kuching in May 1950,[39] Ahmad Tajuddin put his faith in MacBryan, who utilised his contact with the Sultan's private secretary, Inche Hassan bin Kulap Mohamed,[39] to rise to the position of Political Advisor to the Sultan.[40] In London, MacBryan represented Brunei's financial and constitutional rights after the country signed the 1905–1906 Supplementary Treaty with Britain.[41] MacBryan drew inspiration for his own political strategies from Ahmad Tajuddin's 1937 reform in Brunei.[39]

The Sultan was not happy with the British government's unwillingness to return his palace, even if he did receive a salary raise and more oil royalties. MacBryan took advantage of the Sultan's unhappiness and convinced him to get involved in politics. One of his plans was to travel to London in order to renegotiate Brunei's constitutional arrangement and push for more royalties from British Malayan Petroleum. The Sultan was frustrated with the Treaties that limited his operations and conveyed his pain over the oilfield concessions in a letter to MacBryan dated 1 June 1950. He also stated his desire for financial resources to help his people.[42]

By 1 June 1950, MacBryan and the Sultan were getting ready to leave Singapore for London in order to talk about Brunei's constitutional relationship with the United Kingdom. The Sultan formally selected MacBryan as his Political Secretary and designated Princess Nor Ehsani as his heir, to be known as Puteri Besar, when they were staying at the Raffles Hotel. While his younger brother Pengiran Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien possessed the title of Pengiran Bendahara, not as heir apparent, the Sultan also questioned the validity of Brooke's cession of Sarawak without his input and wanted $5,000 in tribute. He also expressed his displeasure with Brunei's oilfield exploitation and gave MacBryan permission to bring up these concerns with the Secretary of State for the Colonies.[43]

The four letters dated 1 June 1950, which were purportedly bearing the Sultan's seal and were written in an elegant English, are nowhere to be found, casting doubt on MacBryan's authority over Ahmad Tajuddin. Although it is impossible to rule out fabrication, the substance of the letters fits the Sultan's known problems and worries, indicating that they could be a true reflection of his emotions.[44] MacBryan skillfully handled the Sultan's concerns and sought to establish himself as an important adviser by utilizing his courtly Malay abilities and familiarity with the British system. In addition to overseeing the Sultan's finances, his goals included incorporating Muslims from southern Philippines and northern Borneo into Brunei's post-war government. This latter goal probably alarmed the Colonial Office since it would affect Brunei's oil output and sovereignty.[45]

Illness and death

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Illness

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In 1949, after moving to Kuching, the Sultan secluded himself in his bedroom for 10 days, refusing visitors and work, until an urgent call prompted his sudden departure to the hospital due to deteriorating health. The physician went to the Sultan's home to ascertain the specific cause of the illness. At the hospital, it was revealed that 423 empty beer bottles had accumulated in the Sultan's room during his solitary confinement, indicating an average consumption of 42 bottles per day, offering a plausible explanation for his deteriorating physical condition. With the Silver Jubilee looming two to three weeks away, meticulous care from physicians and nurses ensured the Sultan's presentable appearance for the event, although his grave underlying health condition, with failing kidneys due to prolonged pressure, remained a serious concern.[46]

Death

[edit]
Raffles Hotel as seen in 1920–1939

When Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin made a stopover in Singapore en route to the United Kingdom to revise the 1906 Agreement on raising oil royalties, he fell ill and was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital on 3 June 1950.[47] He arrived at the hospital and later passed away on the following day,[48] from a haemorrhage he suffered at the Raffles Hotel on the night of 3 June.[30] When news of his death spread, the Crown Prince of Johore, Tengku Ismail went to Singapore General Hospital, to bring the body of the late sultan to Istana Besar, Johore Bahru. In Johore Bahru, his body was washed and covered with white cloth by Syed Salim bin Syed Hasan, the Chief Qadhi of Johore while the funeral prayer, led by the Mufti of Johore, Syed Alwi Al-Hadad. Upon completion of his funeral, his body was laid in state at the foyer of the Grand Palace of Johore Bahru, to provide opportunities for national dignitaries, senior government officials and local community leaders from different ethnic and religious, to pay their respects to the late monarch and send their condolences to his wife.[49] MacDonald brought a wreath and attended the funeral on 4 June 1950.[50]

On 5 June 1950, his coffin was taken to Kallang Airport to be flown to Labuan by the Royal Air Force (RAF) Douglas C-47 Dakota, accompanied by his wife and the royal family. Before the plane took off to Labuan, many dignitaries and ambassadors were present at the airport to pay their respects to the late king.[30] Among them were:[51]

Labuan Airport in January 1963

As soon as the plane that carried his coffin arrived at Labuan Airport, it was met with a parade of honour, composed of members of the Labuan Police Force paying their respects to the late Sultan. His coffin was then taken to the Labuan Jetty to be brought to the Customs Wharf in Brunei by ship. When the ship carrying his coffin arrived in Brunei Town, it was greeted by the royal family, State Dignitaries, VIPs, senior government officials, and the people in attendance. His coffin was then taken to the Istana Mahkota with special vehicles. His coffin was then laid in the General Office of the Government of Brunei.[51]

The British High Commissioner, a representative of the Sarawak government, and the British Malayan Petroleum Company were among the foreign dignitaries that attended Ahmad Tajuddin's traditional funeral at the Royal Mausoleum in Brunei Town. Prior to the body being buried, a succession ceremony was held in front of the hearse at what is known as Lapau.[46]

MacDonald sent his sympathies to Tengku Raihani, his Malaysian consort:


Shortly after, MacDonald was forced to get involved personally in the succession dispute in Brunei. Omar Ali Saifuddin III, the new Sultan, was proclaimed on 5 June 1950, with MacDonald's full approval, as the late Sultan left no male heir. This decision was confirmed by a special State Council meeting attended by prominent Bruneian figures, including British Resident Eric Ernest Falk Pretty and High Commissioner Anthony Abell. Pengiran Muda Omar Ali Saifuddin became an apparent heir when he was appointed to the position of first wazir (vizier) since he became the most senior member of Brunei's political system.[40]

Personal life

[edit]
Tengku Raihani and Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin

Throughout his life, Ahmad Tajuddin has a passion for sports. In addition to being a football player, he loved to ride horses. In addition, he was regarded as an artist who had a strong interest in literature. Printed by Mohd. Darwi of Mohamediah Press, 'Guidance for Security' is a book that he left behind.[30]

Family

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With authorities and members of his family present, Ahmad Tajuddin wed Tengku Raihani on 30 April 1934; their daughter, Princess Nor Ehsani, was born in Klang in 1935.[15] Ahmad Tajuddin had three daughters from his first marriage to Kadayang Amas (Maskaton) binti Ampuan Salleh, but no boys. His travels to Selangor, such as those made in 1937 for the Golden Jubilee of the Sultan of Selangor, served to further cement the alliance between the two royal houses.[15] He and Kadayang Amas have three daughters;[52]

  • Pengiran Anak Datin Seri Setia Siti Saerah (Balabab Besar), born in 1929, died on 4 November 2013.[53]
  • Pengiran Anak Datin Seri Setia Siti Zubaidah (Balabab Tengah)
  • Pengiran Anak Datin Seri Setia Siti Halimah (Balabab Damit), born in 1935, died on 4 January 2008.

Tengku Kelana Jaya Petra, the brother-in-law of the Sultan and a former Raja Muda of Selangor, put a lot of pressure on the Sultan at the time to have the heir born in Malaya, against Bruneian custom, put the mother at risk. She tried not to give in to the pressure, but the Selangor family's might won out, and Princess Nor Ehsani was born at Klang towards the end of August 1935.[16] He would also enrolled his kids at Brunei's Catholic school.[54]

Honours

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References

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Citations

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  1. ^ Kershaw, Roger (4 January 2002). Monarchy in South East Asia: The Faces of Tradition in Transition. Routledge. pp. XVII. ISBN 978-1-134-66707-9.
  2. ^ a b Reece 2009, p. 82.
  3. ^ a b c d e Mohamed, Muhaimin. SULTAN AHMAD TAJUDDIN 1924-1950: HUBUNGAN RAJA DENGAN PENASIHAT (PDF) (in Malay). Pusat Sejarah Brunei.
  4. ^ Reece 2009, p. 92.
  5. ^ Colonial Reports--annual. H.M. Stationery Office. 1932. p. 29.
  6. ^ Hussainmiya, B. A. (1995). Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin III and Britain, The Making of Brunei Darssalam. Kuala Lumpur: Oxford University Press. p. 46.
  7. ^ Horton, A. V. M. (1985). The Development of Brunei During the British Residential Era 1906-1959: A Sultanate Regenerated. University of Hull. p. 125.
  8. ^ Horton, A. V. M. (1985). The Development of Brunei During the British Residential Era, 1906-1959 : A Sultanate Regenerated. University of Hull. p. 622.
  9. ^ a b Reece 2009, p. 83.
  10. ^ a b c d Reece 2009, p. 126.
  11. ^ a b c Reece 2009, p. 84.
  12. ^ a b Great Britain Colonial Office (1965). Brunei. H.M. Stationery Office. pp. 226–227.
  13. ^ Reece 2009, p. 125.
  14. ^ Dr Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong (2009). Memoir seorang negarawan (in Malay). Pusat Sejarah Brunei, Kementerian Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan. p. 64. ISBN 978-99917-34-69-9.
  15. ^ a b c d e f Reece 2009, p. 127.
  16. ^ a b c Reece 2009, p. 85.
  17. ^ Brunei State Council Minutes. 31 December 1939.
  18. ^ a b c Reece 2009, p. 86.
  19. ^ a b Brunei State Council Minutes. 16 March 1936.
  20. ^ a b c Reece 2009, p. 118.
  21. ^ a b Reece 2009, p. 119.
  22. ^ Brunei States Council Minutes. 28 October 1940.
  23. ^ Brunei in the Second World War, Harun Abdul Majid, Rebellion in Brunei: The 1962 Revolt, Imperialism, Confrontation and Oil - Volume 14 of International library of twentieth century history, I.B.Tauris, 2007, pages 12-13, ISBN 184511423X, 9781845114237
  24. ^ a b "The Japanese Interregnum...," Graham Saunders, A history of Brunei, Edition 2, illustrated, reprint, Routledge, 2002, p. 129, ISBN 070071698X, 978-0700716982
  25. ^ Gin Ooi Keat (29 May 2013). Post-War Borneo, 1945-1950: Nationalism, Empire and State-Building. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-134-05810-5.
  26. ^ Reece 2009, p. 88.
  27. ^ a b Zullkiflee, Amalina (2019). Strategi Awang Haji Kassim dalam Usaha Menyelamatkan Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin: Satu Kajian Awal (PDF). Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali.
  28. ^ Melayong, Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad (2009). Memoir seorang negarawan (in Malay). Pusat Sejarah Brunei, Kementerian Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan. p. 59. ISBN 978-99917-34-69-9.
  29. ^ a b Reece 2009, p. 87.
  30. ^ a b c d e Reece 2009, p. 128.
  31. ^ a b Reece 2009, p. 89.
  32. ^ MacDonald Papers, Durham University Library, minute by H.E. The Commissioner General, 1949.
  33. ^ Hussainmiya, Bachamiya Abdul. "Resuscitating Nationalism: Brunei under the Japanese Military Administration (1941･-1945)": 291. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  34. ^ Hab, Rasidah (12 April 2016). "HM pays last respects to ex-chief minister". Brunei Times. Archived from the original on 20 May 2016. Retrieved 7 May 2016.
  35. ^ Hussainmiya, Bachamiya Abdul. "Resuscitating Nationalism: Brunei under the Japanese Military Administration (1941･-1945)": 291. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  36. ^ Mohd Jamil Al-Sufri (Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Diraja Dato Seri Utama Haji Awang.) (2010). Royal Poet Al-marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien. Brunei History Centre. p. 1. ISBN 978-99917-34-74-3.
  37. ^ Horton, A. V. M. (1985). The Development of Brunei During the British Residential Era 1906-1959: A Sultanate Regenerated. University of Hull. p. 299.
  38. ^ Brunei State Council Minutes. 29 March 1949.
  39. ^ a b c d Reece 2009, p. 90.
  40. ^ a b B.A. Hussainmiya (3 September 2014). "Malcolm MacDonald and Brunei: Diplomacy with intimacy, Journal of Southeast Asian Studies" (PDF). fass.ubd.edu.bn. pp. 401–402. Retrieved 15 May 2024.
  41. ^ Reece 2009, p. 95.
  42. ^ Reece 2009, p. 96.
  43. ^ Reece 2009, p. 95–96.
  44. ^ Reece 2009, p. 97.
  45. ^ Reece 2009, p. 97–98.
  46. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference :4 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  47. ^ Reece, R.H.W. (1993). The Name of Brooke, The End of White Rajah Rule In Sarawak. Kuala Lumpur: Oxford University Press. p. 279.
  48. ^ Sidhu, Jatswan S. (22 December 2009). Historical Dictionary of Brunei Darussalam. Scarecrow Press. p. 169. ISBN 978-0-8108-7078-9.
  49. ^ "SULTAN OF BRUNEI DARUSSALAM AHMAD TAJUDDIN WHO DIED IN …". www.nas.gov.sg. Retrieved 2 October 2022.
  50. ^ "COMMISSIONER-GENERAL FOR SOUTHEAST ASIA MALCOLM MACDONALD …". www.nas.gov.sg. Retrieved 2 October 2022.
  51. ^ a b Tengkusyah (27 July 2013). "Maharum Bugis Syah (MBS): Al-Marhum Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin - Sultan Brunei Ke-27". Maharum Bugis Syah (MBS). Retrieved 2 October 2022.
  52. ^ Zullkiflee, Nurul Amalina binti (July 2020). Implikasi 25 Tahun Pemerintahan Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin (in Malay). Vol. 3. Brunei Darussalam: Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali. p. 50.
  53. ^ "YAM Pg Anak Datin Seri Setia Hajah Siti Saerah passes away". www.sultanate.com. 5 November 2013. Retrieved 2 October 2022.
  54. ^ Saunders, Graham (5 November 2013). A History of Brunei. Routledge. p. 118. ISBN 978-1-136-87394-2.
  55. ^ Rozan Yunos (15 December 2008). "Sultans of Brunei Series I - Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin". The Brunei Times. Retrieved 15 May 2024.
  56. ^ "Honour CMG for HH the Sultan of Brunei (Ahmad Tajudin Akhazul Khairi Waden) II visit of HE Mr S W Jones to Brunei & Labnan". www.nas.gov.sg. Retrieved 15 May 2024.

Bibliography

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  1. ^ Horton, A. V. M. (1985). University of Hull. p. 301. {{cite book}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
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