“Born in Kampong Pengiran Bendahara Lama” whispers the old stone. That’s where it all began for Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam. He wasn’t just any man. He was the Pengiran Pemancha. This very spot his birthplace. Now known as Bandar Seri Begawan.
Pengiran Pemancha Lama holds a special place in Brunei’s history. It’s not just a name on a map. It’s a legacy. A reminder of the powerful Pengiran Pemancha family. Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam’s family was highly esteemed. His father was a wazir a high-ranking official.
His life was full of service. He started as a clerk. Then a magistrate. Later a district officer. He held several important positions in government. Pengiran Pemancha Alam rose to become the third most senior wazir. He even served as the fourth speaker of Brunei’s Legislative Council. Quite an achievement.
His legacy extended beyond politics. Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam was Brunei’s first chief of Adat Istiadat Negara. He oversaw customs and traditions. He was instrumental in shaping Brunei’s identity. His work ensured Brunei’s culture was preserved. A cultural guardian. He played an important role during the 1962 Brunei revolt. He remained loyal to the Sultan. He condemned the rebellion. He was a pillar of strength in troubled times.
His personal life was equally remarkable. He was the father of Pengiran Anak Saleha. She became the queen consort to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. He was the maternal grandfather of Al-Muhtadee Billah the Crown Prince. His family ties are woven into Brunei’s royal tapestry. Pengiran Pemancha Alam married Pengiran Anak Besar. Together they had nine children.
Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam was a man of many talents. A skilled administrator a devoted family man and a steadfast patriot. His contributions are still felt today. His name lives on in the roads. Also in a mosque and a school. This is the Kampong Pengiran Pemancha Lama a place of great significance. A true reflection of this remarkable man’s life. A life that shaped Brunei’s past and continues to influence its present. Remember Pengiran Pemancha Lama. Remember the legacy of Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam.