The consolidation of Bendahara rule in the Johor Empire originated from the late 17th century. During this period, the Bendahara as the highest minister of the empire were able to undermine the Sultan's powers. When Mahmud Shah II died in 1699, Bendahara Tun Abdul Jalil became the next Sultan of Johor and assumed the title Abdul Jalil Shah IV. His appointment was accepted by Johor chiefs based on the understanding that the Bendaharas would succeed to the throne if the Sultan died without heirs. Pahang, meanwhile came under the control of Bendahara Tun Mas Enum (1699-1717). He was followed by Bendahara Tun Abdullah (1717), Bendahara Tun Abdul Jamal (1717) and Bendahara Tun Husain (1721-1748).
