State Secretary of Brunei

The 1888 Protectorate Agreement and the 1905–1906 Supplementary Treaty between Brunei and the United Kingdom were initially enacted to protect Brunei's territorial sovereignty, particularly from external threats. However, as Brunei's governance evolved to meet modern demands, especially during the adoption of a new constitution, a call to reassess these treaties emerged, particularly from residents of the Belait District. In response to these developments, the British Resident system, which had dominated Brunei's administration, was abolished. The role of the Resident, once the chief administrator, was downgraded to an advisory position to the sultan of Brunei and the State Council. This shift officially paved the way for the creation of new roles such as the chief minister and the state secretary, which were essential to modernising Brunei's political structure and adapting to contemporary governance needs. == Functions ==

The state secretary was established to support the chief minister in overseeing Brunei's administrative functions. The position was specifically reserved for Malay Muslims and required nomination by the sultan. Under the 1959 Constitution, the state secretary became the principal officer managing internal administrative affairs, ensuring departmental coordination and policy consultation. The state secretary also held a seat in the Council of Ministers, and worked alongside other key officials like the attorney general and the state financial officer to implement the sultan's executive authority. Additionally, in legal matters involving government personnel, documents signed by the state secretary, such as those certifying employment details, were accepted as conclusive evidence in court. ==List of secretariats==