Omar Ali Saifuddien III - Later Life and Road To Independence

Later Life and Road To Independence

Although he had retired from the throne and all his responsibilities to his country had been handed over to his son, His Royal Highness Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Waddaulah Mu'izaddin, but as a father, he still held the lead responsibility towards his son’s perfection. That is why he always held open discussion together with his son, both in Council or anywhere, including in London. He wanted to see his son’s success in leading the administration of the State. He always led and guided his son in carrying out the duties as the Sultan of Brunei in preparation for the time Brunei would eventually become an independent and sovereign country.

• His Highness witnessed the signing of the amendment and revision of the 1959 Agreement at the Lapau, Bandar Seri Begawan on 23 November 1971.
• His Highness accompanied his son, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah to London to initial the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation on 29 September 1978.
• His Highness attended the signing of the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation to assume full responsibility towards the independence and sovereignty of Brunei Darussalam, and responsibility for foreign affairs and defence from the United Kingdom. His Highness became one of the signatories of the treaty which was held at the Lapau, Bandar Seri Begawan on 7 January 1979.