PM Modi Visits Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque During Historic Visit To Brunei | See Photos

Brunei: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday visited Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan as he’s on a visit to Brunei. He will later hold talks with Sultan of Brunei — Sultan Hassanal Bhokiah at world’s largest residential palace.

PM Modi said he’s looking forward to strong bilateral ties, especially in boosting commercial and cultural linkages.

Ceremonial welcome for PM Modi in Brunei

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded ceremonial welcome upon arrival in historic visit to Brunei. Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee welcomed PM Modi at the airport.

PM Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to travel to Brunei on a bilateral visit, said he was looking forward to his meetings with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and other members of the royal family to take the historical relationship to new heights.

As a special gesture, Modi was received by Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah at the airport. From Brunei, Modi will travel to Singapore on Wednesday.

Modi visited the iconic Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Brunei, which was built by the current Sultan's father. He also inaugurated the new chancery premises of the High Commission of India. At both places, he interacted with the Indian diaspora.

He was received by Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Dato Ustaz Awang Badaruddin at the mosque, where he also watched a video depicting its history.

"Looking forward to strong ties between our nations, especially in boosting commercial and cultural linkages. I thank Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah for welcoming me at the airport," Modi said in a post on X shortly after his arrival here.

While inaugurating the new chancery premises, Modi termed it as indicative of stronger ties between the two countries.

"Delighted to inaugurate the new Chancery of the High Commission of India, indicative of our stronger ties with Brunei Darussalam. This will also be serving our diaspora," he said in another post on X.

The prime minister lit a lamp and unveiled a plaque, inaugurating the chancery premises, which embodies a "profound sense of Indianness, masterfully integrating traditional motifs and lush tree plantations", the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press release.

The use of elegant claddings and durable Kota stones further enhances its aesthetic appeal, harmoniously blending classic and contemporary elements, it said.

"The design not only pays homage to India’s rich cultural heritage but also creates a tranquil and inviting atmosphere," it said.

Modi also interacted with the members of the vibrant Indian diaspora who were part of the event, appreciating their contribution as a "living bridge" between the two countries and strengthening bilateral ties. The contribution of Indian doctors and teachers to the growth and development of Brunei’s healthcare and education sectors has been well acknowledged, the release said.

The first phase of Indians arriving in Brunei started with the discovery of oil in the 1920s. Currently, approximately 14,000 Indians are residing in Brunei.

With inputs from PTI