11-1-2024 (BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN) Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei, a prominent figure known for his polo skills and often regarded as one of Asia’s most eligible bachelors, tied the knot with his commoner fiancée, Yang Mulia Anisha Rosnah, in a grand Islamic marriage ceremony held at a gold-domed mosque in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, on Thursday (Jan 11). The extravagant 10-day celebration is a testament to the opulence of the oil-rich sultanate.
Prince Abdul Mateen, the 10th child of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, and once the richest man globally, donned a traditional white ensemble adorned with diamond-shaped motifs and a matching headpiece for the ceremony. The event took place in the presence of the sultan, close relatives, and other distinguished guests.
The prince, known for his matinee idol looks and a significant social media following, was driven to the mosque in a luxury saloon. The ceremony, attended exclusively by males, was presided over by an imam. Following the ceremony, Prince Mateen approached his father, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and kissed his hand.
The royal wedding festivities are set to reach their pinnacle on Sunday with a lavish ceremony in the 1,788-room palace and an elaborate procession. The guest list is expected to include international royalty and political leaders.
Bruneians, captivated by the royal spectacle, plan to line the streets on Sunday to witness the procession of the newlyweds. The extravagant celebration showcases Brunei’s extreme wealth, primarily derived from its substantial oil reserves.
As an absolute monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a population of around 450,000, Brunei boasts one of the world’s highest GDP per capita, nearly $36,000, according to the International Monetary Fund. However, challenges lie ahead for Brunei to diversify its economy amid volatile crude prices and diminishing reserves.
Prince Abdul Mateen, although unlikely to ascend the throne, has gained global recognition for his charismatic appeal and social media presence. A helicopter pilot in the Brunei air force, he has often been compared to Britain’s Prince Harry and is known as the “hot royal.” Having represented his country in polo at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, he has also played a growing role in international diplomacy, accompanying his father to significant events such as the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla and Queen Elizabeth’s funeral.
