Al-Muhtadee Billah, the oldest son of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and Queen Saleha, was born on 17 February 1974,[4] and is honoured with the college's name.

[5] As the first in line of succession to the Bruneian throne, he has the title of Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota.

[11] In 1976, the school commemorated a momentous event when 26 Malay-medium students from the initial intake were awarded government scholarships by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah to pursue further education in the United Kingdom.

[14] Maktab Duli marked the beginning of pre-university studies with a three-day orientation event for incoming students, which is conducted at the college auditorium.

The curriculum attempts to provide pupils a head start and an overview of the academic and social activities of the sixth form institution.

Parents are present for the first-day event, which featured readings from the Quran, the college principal's address, and the national hymn and alma mater music.