The State Secretary[a] (Malay: Setiausaha Kerajaan; Jawi: ستياءوسها كراجأن) was established to manage Brunei’s internal administrative functions and support the Menteri Besar.

Reserved for Malay Muslims, the position became a key figure under the 1959 Constitution, overseeing departmental coordination, advising the Sultan of Brunei, and holding a seat in the Council of Ministers.

However, as Brunei's governance evolved to meet modern demands, especially during the adoption of a new constitution, a call to reassess these treaties emerged, particularly from residents of the Belait District.

This shift officially paved the way for the creation of new roles such as the Menteri Besar and the State Secretary, which were essential to modernising Brunei's political structure and adapting to contemporary governance needs.

[5] Additionally, in legal matters involving government personnel, documents signed by the State Secretary, such as those certifying employment details, were accepted as conclusive evidence in court.