Prime Minister Narendra Modi Embarks on Historic Visit to Brunei

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced a landmark two-day visit to Brunei, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Southeast Asian nation. During this significant trip, PM Modi will meet Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the ruler of Brunei, at the magnificent Istana Nurul Iman Palace.

The Istana Nurul Iman Palace, located near Brunei’s capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, holds the title of the world’s largest residential palace as recognized by Guinness World Records. The grand structure boasts 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, and 44 staircases constructed from 38 different kinds of marble.

History of Istana Nurul Iman

The name “Istana Nurul Iman” translates to “Palace of the Light of Faith.” This awe-inspiring residence was commissioned by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in 1981, with its construction costing approximately $1.4 billion. Completed in 1984, just before Brunei gained independence from British rule, the palace was designed by Filipino architect Leonardo Locsin to symbolize a new era for the country.

Notable Features

Spanning an impressive 200,000 square meters, Istana Nurul Iman is the largest residential palace globally. It contains 1,788 rooms, including 257 bathrooms, and features a banquet hall capable of hosting 5,000 guests. The palace also offers parking space for 110 cars, an air-conditioned stable for 200 polo ponies, five swimming pools, and a mosque with a capacity for 1,500 worshippers. The 44 staircases within the palace are made from 38 types of marble, adding to its opulence.

Architectural Style

The architectural design of Istana Nurul Iman is a harmonious blend of Brunei’s Islamic culture and Malay traditions. The grand white exterior is complemented by golden domes, including a central dome adorned with 22-carat gold. The palace’s interior was designed by Khuan Chew, who is also renowned for his work on Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, featuring lavish use of gold and marble.

The palace has hosted several significant events, including the 28th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting, which was held virtually from this grand setting.

Although Istana Nurul Iman is the largest residential palace in the world, it doesn’t hold the title for the most expensive. That distinction belongs to Buckingham Palace in London, valued at approximately $2.9 billion.