Pengiran Muhammad Salleh (1890 – 1969) was a Bruneian nobleman and politician who formerly held several high-ranking positions which included being a member of the State Council, Privy Council, Legislative Council, and the Chief Kadi.
Biography
Salleh was born in 1890, at Kampong Pemancha Lama of Kampong Ayer. He became the nation's Chief Kadi on 1 January 1940, under the rule of Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin. Additionally, he was also the Brunei State Religious Advisor. In the absence of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, he became a member of Legislative, Privy and State Councils in 1960.
In May 1968, Salleh officially became a member of wazir. The last person to have the title was Pengiran Anak Muhammad Hassan, who held it during Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin's reign from 1900 to 1968. The title was out of usage for more than 50 years after 1900 as a result of a mix of political and economic circumstances. Finally, the title was restored and given to Salleh prior to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's coronation in 1968, marking the resuscitation of one of Brunei's oldest titles.
Pengiran Muhammad Sharifuddin interviewed Salleh in 1968 and 1969 regarding Brunei's ancient royal wedding custom. 'Royal Weddings', an article published in the 1969 Brunei Museum Journal, is a highly significant source on the topic.
Titles and honours
Titles
Upon taking up as one of the wazirs of Brunei, Salleh was bestowed the title of Yang Teramat Mulia Seri Paduka Pengiran Di-Gadong Sahib Mal in May 1968, in which he would hold until his death in 1969. As the Chief Kadi, he held the honorary title of Yang Berhormat (The Honourable) on 1 January 1940, and the cheteria title of Pengiran Shahbandar Sahibul Bandar on 2 August 1958.
Namesakes
Pengiran Digadong Haji Mohd Salleh Religious School, a school in Kampong Sungai Kedayan 'B'
Honours
Salleh has earned the following known honours; Order of Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei Second Class (DPMB; 23 September 1956) – Dato Paduka; Third Class (SMB) Omar Ali Saifuddin Medal (POAS) Meritorious Service Medal (PJK)