Last week saw the son of the sultan of Brunei, Prince Abdul Mateen, and his wife, Princess Anisha, share the happy news that their first child had been born. And on Wednesday, the couple posted the first photo of their new arrival, as well as revealing her name.
Proud father Prince Abdul Mateen took to Instagram to share the cute details about their daughter, writing: "Zahra Mariam Bolkiah. Anisha & I are so grateful to the incredible team at JPMC for their exceptional care and support, and so thankful to everyone for the kind wishes."
This heartfelt post comes after the more formal announcement from his father, Hassanal Bolkiah, the sultan of Brunei, who wrote: "In compliance with the orders of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Office of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, hereby announces that His Royal Highness Princess Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, wife of His Royal Highness Prince Muda 'Abdul Mateen ibni His Royal Highness Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, with the permission of Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala, has safely given birth to a daughter on Sunday, 20th, Syaaban, 1447 corresponding to 8th, February, 2026, at 8.50 am."
© InstagramPrince Abdul Mateen's post
The Prince's photo showed himself and Princess Anisha cradling their tiny baby, with Princess Anisha gazing lovingly at her husband.
The photo appears to have been captured at their home, which looks surprisingly low-key for a royal residence. Behind the royals, a baby gym can be seen, alongside a cabinet with a few toys in it.
Both Anish and Abdul are dressed in chic black outfits, with their casual attire perfect for new parents.
© IQBAL DATO HJ SELAMATThe baby name
The royal Brunei baby has a name fit for a princess, with Zahra an Arabic name meaning brilliance, splendour, bright and flower.
Her middle name, Mariam, is related to the Latin name Mary, with meanings including beloved, drop of the sea and star of the sea. Mariam is the name of Prince Abdul Mateen's mother, with whom he shares a close relationship.
Princess Anisha's mother's name is Siti Mariam, so it's clearly a moniker close to the hearts of the couple.
