Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a historic visit to Brunei today, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister has traveled to this Southeast Asian country. This two-day visit is designed to enhance diplomatic ties and celebrate 40 years of friendship between India and Brunei. The invitation comes from Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who is renowned as the second-longest reigning monarch globally.
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is famous for his remarkable wealth and lavish lifestyle, including what is widely regarded as the world’s largest private car collection. His impressive fleet, valued at around $5 billion, includes more than 7,000 luxury vehicles. His collection features about 600 Rolls-Royces, earning him an official Guinness World Record. It also boasts approximately 450 Ferraris and 380 Bentleys.
The Sultan’s car collection extends to other prestigious brands such as Porsches, Lamborghinis, Maybachs, Jaguars, BMWs, and McLarens. Highlights include a Bentley Dominator SUV worth about $80 million, a Porsche 911 with a Horizon Blue finish and an X88 power package, and a Rolls-Royce Silver Spur II plated in 24-carat gold. A particularly unique item is a custom Rolls-Royce with an open roof and an umbrella, lavishly designed with gold. In 2007, he purchased a custom gold-coated Rolls-Royce for his daughter Princess Majededah's wedding.
Beyond his car collection, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah leads a life of grandeur. He resides in the Istana Nurul Iman Palace, the world’s largest residential palace, which spans over two million square feet and is decorated with 22-carat gold. The palace includes five swimming pools, 1,700 bedrooms, 257 bathrooms, and 110 garages.
The Sultan also owns a private zoo featuring 30 Bengal tigers and various bird species, and he has a Boeing 747 aircraft.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit is a significant step in strengthening India-Brunei relations and fostering economic cooperation. Given Brunei's wealth from oil and gas reserves, there are vast opportunities for collaboration across various sectors. This visit is anticipated to further cement the strong ties between the two nations and open new avenues for partnership.
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