KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, one of the wealthiest individuals globally and the longest-reigning monarch, was recently discharged from a Malaysian hospital after a five-day admission due to fatigue. The 78-year-old Sultan, who has been ruling Brunei for over 57 years, was hospitalized at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur while attending an annual summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Brunei's government announced on social media late Saturday that the Sultan has been moved to a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, where he will rest for a few days before returning to Brunei. The information department of Brunei released photographs showing the Sultan walking into the hotel lobby accompanied by his wife, along with images of him in a room with family members, including two of his sons.

Sultan Hassanal was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday, following medical advice, as he was reportedly feeling tired. His office has stated that he is in "good health," although he was advised to take time to rest. The Sultan's reign has seen significant transformations in Brunei, including the country's full independence from Britain in 1984, marking a pivotal moment in its history.

In addition to his role as Sultan, Hassanal Bolkiah holds several key governmental positions, including prime minister, finance minister, defense minister, and minister of foreign affairs. He is known for his opulent lifestyle, including a vast collection of luxury and rare automobiles, as well as residing in a grand palace that is recognized as the world's largest private home, featuring 1,788 rooms.

The Sultan's regime has also attracted international attention due to the implementation of strict Islamic criminal laws in Brunei, which include severe penalties such as amputating limbs and stoning convicted individuals to death. Such measures have sparked controversy and criticism from human rights organizations and activists around the world.

Overall, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's recent health scare highlights the ongoing public interest in his leadership and the current affairs of Brunei, as well as the socio-political context in which he rules. His return to health is welcomed news for both the citizens of Brunei and the international community observing his reign and the implications of his policies.