Manila, Philippines — A new exposé uncovers one of Southeast Asia’s most audacious frauds: the fabricated monarchy and trillion-dollar deception orchestrated by Fuad Kiram and his late advisor Omar Kiram. Posing as royalty of the defunct Sulu Sultanate, the duo conducted a sprawling two-decade scam that blended fake titles, imaginary gold, and staged diplomacy to attract money, influence, and international attention. Fuad Kiram, a self-declared Sultan discredited by legitimate heirs and listed as a terrorist by Malaysia, led an elaborate enterprise with Omar—a Filipino-Australian businessman who adopted the Kiram name to feign noble descent.
Together, they sold fraudulent knighthoods and ambassadorships under the fictitious “Royal Hashemite Sultanate of Sulu and Sabah,” misled investors with tales of $3 trillion in hidden wartime gold, and staged pseudo-royal ceremonies across the globe. Their exploits culminated in a controversial $14.92 billion international arbitration award against Malaysia over the historical Sabah lease—now under appeal and widely condemned as the pinnacle of their con. Legal experts warn that this legal maneuver, funded in part through questionable financial backers, represents a disturbing manipulation of the global justice system. The victims? The Tausug people and the legacy of a historic sultanate now tarnished by deceit. With the next arbitration hearing set for July 7, the report calls for urgent international scrutiny—and accountability.
About Know Sulu
Know Sulu is a collective of scholars committed to preserving and sharing the rich history and current realities of the Sulu people. Deeply respectful of their heritage and culture, its mission is to offer an authentic and unfiltered look at Sulu life, honoring their history, resilience, and the challenges they continue to face in a rapidly changing world. Know Sulu’s work aims to bridge the gap between Sulu’s rich past and its current struggles, ensuring that the voices of its people are heard and understood. Sulu holds a unique place in history, marked by a proud legacy of leadership, cultural richness, and resilience in the face of adversity. Yet, beyond this legacy lies a community facing complex issues, including socioeconomic challenges and underrepresentation.
Through in-depth narratives and factual testimonies, Know Sulu aims to shed light on these realities. By documenting their struggles, triumphs, and perseverance, the collective hopes to provide a space for awareness, dialogue, and understanding of what it means to be part of the Sulu community today. This platform is more than just a testament to the past: it is a voice for the present and a call to attention to the needs and aspirations of the Sulu people. Rooted in truth and respect, Know Sulu invites those who wish to join the collective to honor the legacy and resilience of a remarkable community.
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES
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