Who Is Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei? Meet the Royal Prince Everyone's Talking About
The heartthrob prince has become one of Southeast Asia’s most recognizable young royals.
Published on May 15, 2026
The 48th ASEAN Summit, held in Cebu in May 2026, brought together political leaders and dignitaries from across Southeast Asia. Among the guests who quickly caught the internet’s attention was Prince Abdul Mateen, the son of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
The Bruneian prince attended the summit alongside his father, with photos from the event making the rounds online almost instantly. Between his military background, polo career, and polished public appearances, it’s not hard to see why he has built a strong following far beyond Brunei.
Here are five things to know about the royal.
Who Is Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei?
He is fifth in line to the Bruneian throne.
Born on August 10, 1991, Prince Abdul Mateen is the 10th child and fourth son of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. He is currently fifth in the line of succession to the Bruneian throne.
While his older half-brother, Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah, is the heir apparent, Prince Mateen has steadily taken on more public-facing royal duties over the years. He has accompanied the Sultan to major diplomatic engagements, including ASEAN meetings, royal coronations, and state visits. This included attending the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and the coronation of King Charles III the following year.
He’s a decorated athlete and military officer.
Prince Mateen’s public image is closely tied to sports and fitness. While his Instagram often shows him boxing, golfing, and training, polo remains the sport he is most associated with.
He has represented Brunei in polo at the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games several times, winning bronze medals in 2017 and 2019. In 2025, he also helped Brunei secure a silver medal and another bronze finish at the SEA Games.
Outside of sports, the prince has built an extensive military career. According to reports, he trained at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst before joining the Royal Brunei Air Force.
He later qualified as a helicopter pilot after completing training in England. He has also undergone commando and parachute training over the years, with reports noting that he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 2025.
He studied in London.
Prince Mateen also spent several years studying in the United Kingdom.
He graduated from the prestigious King's College London in 2014 with a degree in international politics. Two years later, he completed a master’s degree in international studies and diplomacy at the SOAS University of London.
He married his childhood friend.
In January 2024, Prince Mateen married Anisha Rosnah in a lavish 10-day royal wedding that drew global attention.
According to Harper’s Bazaar Malaysia, Anisha is the granddaughter of one of the Sultan’s special advisors and had known the prince since childhood. Her brother, Danial Isa-Kalebic, was reportedly a longtime friend of Prince Mateen as well. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Zahra Mariam, on February 8, 2026.
He has become one of Southeast Asia’s most followed royals.
Long before his wedding and ASEAN Summit appearances went viral, Prince Mateen had already built a strong online following.
His Instagram account, where he shares snippets of royal engagements, polo tournaments, military training, and travel, has attracted 3.2 million followers. The prince has also become known for his sharp tailoring and luxury lifestyle, frequently spotted attending Formula 1 events, traveling on yachts, and driving classic cars.
Kat is Preview's Lifestyle Editor, explorer, and occasional rhymer. When not globe-trotting, she's over her computer, writing her next big novel.