The Sultan of Brunei has successfully undergone a total right knee replacement surgery, the Bruneian prime minister’s office (PMO) has announced. The 78-year-old ruler, one of the world’s few remaining absolute monarchs, was admitted to Jerudong Park Medical Centre and underwent the operation on Sunday, January 18, according to local media. He was discharged today and was seen being accompanied by his wife, Queen Saleha of Brunei.

The royal couple, as well as other members of the family, were greeted on their way out of the hospital by government officials, with pictures being released on social media. According to the Malaysian newspaper Star, upon his discharge, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah expressed his “deepest” gratitude to the people of Brunei for their well wishes for his swift recovery.

He also thanked hospital staff for the “excellent care and treatment” during his stay.

A special announcement was broadcast from the hospital regarding the ruler’s health.

It was delivered by the minister at the PMO and the minister of Defence, the minister of Religious Affairs and the minister of Health.

They said Hassanal Bolkiah is in stable condition and good health, adding that he will now be recuperating at home under medical team supervision.

He is also set to have physiotherapy following the surgery; however, his royal duties will not be interrupted.

However, they added that each engagement will be determined by his health.

After the announcement, a doa, a special prayer, was recited by a priest for the Sultan’s swift recovery.