Pengiran Setia Negara

Could a place named after a man hold the echoes of his extraordinary life? Here, at Kampong Pengiran Setia Negara, in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, the spirit of Pengiran Muhammad Yusuf, also known as Yura Halim, seems to linger. Pengiran Setia Negara isn’t just a village; it’s a testament to a man who wore many hats – poet, chief minister, diplomat, and survivor. Born in Tutong in 1923, Yusuf’s journey began humbly. He trained as a teacher at Sultan Idris Training College, a breeding ground for political awareness. His path took an unexpected turn when he was selected to study in Japan. He arrived in Hiroshima in 1945, only to face the devastating atomic bombing. This experience shaped him, instilling in him a deep appreciation for peace and a drive to serve his nation. Back in Brunei, Yusuf became a key figure in the fight for independence. He served as Brunei’s first state information officer and played a crucial role in drafting the 1959 constitution. His contributions didn’t stop there. He ascended to the position of chief minister, navigating Brunei through a period of significant transformation. He oversaw the renaming of Brunei Town to Bandar Seri Begawan, a symbolic gesture marking the nation’s progress under a new Sultan. Beyond his political career, Yusuf’s creative spirit flourished. He penned the lyrics to Brunei’s national anthem, “Allah Peliharakan Sultan,” forever etching his words into the nation’s identity. He wrote under the pen name Yura Halim, crafting poems, stories, and novels that reflected Brunei’s history and culture. He served as High Commissioner to Malaysia and Ambassador to Japan, further demonstrating his dedication to his country. Pengiran Muhammad Yusuf, the man behind Pengiran Setia Negara, passed away in 2016 at the age of 92. He left behind a legacy of service, creativity, and resilience. As you stand in Kampong Pengiran Setia Negara, remember the man whose name it bears. Remember the poet, the statesman, and the survivor. His story is interwoven with the fabric of Brunei, a story that echoes through this quiet corner of Bandar Seri Begawan.