PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA January 14, 2026 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim has publicly expressed his prayers for the swift recovery and continued well-being of Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, who is set to undergo a scheduled medical procedure in the coming days.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) early this morning, Anwar conveyed his hopes for the Sultan’s health, stating: “Mendoakan agar KDYMM Baginda Tuanku dikurniakan keafiatan yang berpanjangan serta berada dalam lindungan dan rahmat Allah SWT. Semoga Baginda Tuanku kekal qarar memerintah Negara Brunei Darussalam dengan penuh hikmah dan kebijaksanaan.”
This translates to praying for His Majesty’s prolonged health under Allah’s protection and mercy, and wishing for his continued wise and prudent leadership over Brunei Darussalam.
The post symbolizing the strong bilateral ties between Malaysia and Brunei, also included hashtags promoting Malaysia’s MADANI agenda.
The announcement follows Brunei’s official disclosure on January 13, 2026, where cabinet ministers appeared on national broadcaster RTB to inform the public that the 79-year-old monarch will undergo a total knee replacement surgery. The procedure is described as pre-planned and will be performed at Jerudong Park Medical Centre on January 18, 2026, corresponding to the 28th of Rejab 1447 in the Islamic calendar.
Brunei’s Prime Minister’s Office has assured the public that updates on His Majesty’s health will be provided post-surgery, emphasizing the routine nature of the operation for the world’s longest-reigning monarch.
This development comes less than a year after the Sultan’s brief hospitalization in May 2025 at Malaysia’s National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur due to fatigue experienced during an ASEAN summit. At that time, he was discharged after five days and reported to be in stable condition, with Malaysian officials, including Anwar, expressing support.
The close relationship between the two neighboring nations, both members of ASEAN, has been a cornerstone of regional stability. Malaysia and Brunei share deep cultural, economic, and historical ties, with frequent high-level engagements reinforcing cooperation in areas such as trade, defense, and energy.
Anwar’s message underscores the personal and diplomatic solidarity between the leaders, reflecting the mutual respect that has defined Malaysia-Brunei relations for decades. As the Sultan prepares for his procedure, well-wishes from across the region continue to pour in, highlighting his enduring influence in Southeast Asia.
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