Prince Azim of Brunei, who also had a short career as a Hollywood filmmaker, has died. He was 38 years old.
The son of the wealthiest sultan of Brunei, and the fourth to the throne, died Saturday in the capital, Port Seri Begawan. Like in Muslim countries, his funeral was also held shortly after Saturday.
The government made the announcement on national radio. It said the country had now entered a seven-day period of mourning and the population should dress accordingly.
The cause of death was not given, although local media reports said he had been ill for some time.
Ajim’s London-based production company was Daryl Prince Productions. His Hollywood credits under the name Azim Bolkia include 2014’s Hillary Swank starrer “You Are Not” and 2018 Rupert Everett starrer “The Happy Prince”. The prince and company were eventually understood to be involved in an untitled film project about fashion designers Alexander UnderQ and Isabella Blow.
Azim was also said to be a high profile figure on the international party scene, and was frequently seen in the company of Pamela Anderson, Janet Jackson and Maria Carey.
The sultanate has been sharply criticized in recent years for advocating a ruler punishing criminals who are compliant with Muslim Sharia law, but in the West it is seen as particularly brutal.
Neighboring Malaysia’s Prime Minister Muhiddin Yassin posted his condolences on Facebook. “His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolikia, Sultan of Brunei Darussalam His Highness Prince, Duli Yang Mulia Paduka Seri Pangiran M. Azim’s death condolences and prayers for all the people of Paduka Seri Baginda Be strong to face the moment. May Allah have mercy on the soul of the deceased. “
