24/02/2026
Building the Istana Nurul Iman, the World’s Largest Residential Palace
In 1981, DM Consunji Inc. (DMCI) embarked on the construction of the Istana Nurul Iman in Brunei—recognized as the largest residential palace in the world. The goal was clear: complete the monumental project in time for the nation’s Independence Day on February 23, 1984.
In his memoir, A Passion to Build, David M. Consunji shared that the opportunity to build the residence of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah came through Enrique Zobel, then CEO of Ayala Corporation and a close friend of the sultan. Zobel served as project manager for the New Istana, having been entrusted by the sultan to oversee the development.
Zobel tapped renowned architect Leandro V. Locsin—later honored as National Artist for Architecture—to design the palace. The project was bid out in two phases: structural works and finishing works. DMCI successfully secured both.
Despite it being the company’s largest overseas venture at the time, Consunji remained confident. Upon reviewing the plans, he believed the team had the expertise to execute the project without technical difficulty.
The scale was extraordinary. The palace complex spans 210,000 square meters across a 30-hectare site. The multi-level reinforced concrete structure includes a three-level main building, four-level royal suites, a two-level throne hall, banquet halls, a three-level surao, utility buildings, a sports complex, and a marina. Stretching approximately 900 meters long and 40 meters wide, the project required over 100,000 cubic meters of concrete. Materials were sourced globally—Philippine lumber, Italian marble, and other finishes from France and Singapore—featuring extensive marble work in various colors.
Public anticipation in Brunei was intense, with many wondering if the palace would be completed in time for Independence Day. Consunji consistently reassured locals that it would be delivered as promised.
After two years and nine months, DMCI completed the palace on schedule and within the $350 million budget—just in time for Brunei’s Independence Day in February 1984. For DMCI, the successful completion of the New Istana marked a defining milestone, commemorating the company’s first 30 years with a landmark achievement on the global stage.
