In 1966, Awangku Ismail studied at Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien College before being awarded a government scholarship to continue his education in the UK.

Constructed between 1980 and 1984, the palace is situated atop Bukit Lumadin, spanning approximately 120 hectares (300 acres) along Jalan Tutong in Bandar Seri Begawan.

[3] On 20 October 1986, following the passing of his father, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah announced a reshuffled and expanded cabinet via Radio Television Brunei to ensure the smooth operation of his government.

[4] This reshuffle saw the creation of thirteen ministerial positions, with Pengiran Ismail appointed as the new minister of development, succeeding Abdul Rahman Taib.

[13] As deputy chair of the task force investigating the 1998 collapse of Prince Jefri Bolkiah-led Amedeo Development Corporation (ADC), Pengiran Ismail displayed rare public candour when he said, "I wish I knew what is going on," reflecting the government's confusion with the situation.

While the exact sums involved remain unclear, the task force's preliminary report in September indicated that funds from the Brunei Investment Agency had been embezzled.

[16][17] Pengiran Ismail faced legal troubles after being found guilty of accepting bribes and receiving gratifications during his tenure as minister of development.

The judge ruled that his actions were serious breaches of trust, involving substantial public funds, and ordered him to pay restitution or face additional imprisonment.

[2] On 18 February 2010, the Brunei High Court officially concluded the trial, convicting Pengiran Ismail on 11 corruption charges and sentencing him to seven years in prison.

[20] Additionally, as one of the founders and key leaders of Koperasi Samakaya, Pengiran Ismail attended the cooperative's 45th anniversary celebration in Bandar Seri Begawan on 18th May 2023.