Brunei’s Military Intelligence Leader Honored with U.S. Legion of Merit

Colonel (U) Pengiran Haji Mohammed Hasreen bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan, Director of Intelligence at Brunei’s Ministry of Defense, has been awarded the Legion of Merit by the United States government in recognition of his exceptional service as Brunei’s Defense Attaché to the United States from July 2021 to July 2024.

The award, presented by the U.S. Embassy in Bandar Seri Begawan, acknowledges Colonel Hasreen’s contributions to strengthening defense cooperation between Brunei and the United States during his tenure as attaché. The Legion of Merit, established in 1942, is awarded to members of the armed forces of friendly foreign nations for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services.

Colonel Hasreen’s career in Brunei’s military intelligence spans over a decade. He attended the inaugural Royal Brunei Armed Forces Command and Staff Course in 2010–2011 and later pursued a master’s degree at the Indonesian Defence University from 2012 to 2013. His leadership has been focused on modernizing Brunei’s military intelligence capabilities and enhancing regional security cooperation amid evolving hybrid threats and maritime challenges.

As Brunei’s spymaster, Colonel Hasreen has emphasized the importance of technological advancement and strong international partnerships in addressing regional security dynamics. His work reflects Brunei’s broader strategy to maintain a credible defense posture while engaging constructively with global partners.

The recognition underscores the growing depth of Brunei-U.S. Defense relations and highlights the role of military intelligence collaboration in fostering stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Takeaways

• Colonel (U) Pengiran Haji Mohammed Hasreen bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan received the U.S. Legion of Merit for his service as Brunei’s Defense Attaché to the United States (2021–2024).
• The award recognizes exceptional meritorious conduct in strengthening Brunei-U.S. Defense cooperation.
• Colonel Hasreen has led Brunei’s military intelligence modernization efforts since attending the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Command and Staff Course in 2010–2011.
• His leadership focuses on countering hybrid threats and enhancing maritime security through regional partnerships and advanced systems.
• The honor reflects the strengthening strategic ties between Brunei and the United States in the Indo-Pacific.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Legion of Merit?

The Legion of Merit is a military award of the United States Armed Forces established in 1942. It is awarded to members of the armed forces of friendly foreign nations for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services.

What was Colonel Hasreen’s role in the United States?

Colonel (U) Pengiran Haji Mohammed Hasreen bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan served as Brunei’s Defense Attaché to the United States from July 2021 to July 2024, representing Brunei’s Ministry of Defense in Washington, D.C.

What is Colonel Hasreen’s background in military intelligence?

Colonel Hasreen attended the inaugural Royal Brunei Armed Forces Command and Staff Course in 2010–2011 and earned a master’s degree from the Indonesian Defence University between 2012 and 2013. He currently serves as Director of Intelligence at Brunei’s Ministry of Defense.

Why was Colonel Hasreen awarded the Legion of Merit?

He was recognized for his exceptional service in strengthening defense cooperation between Brunei and the United States during his tenure as Defense Attaché, demonstrating outstanding leadership in military intelligence engagement.