Syarif was annoyed by James Brooke who intruded Syarif's territory. Together with Datu Patinggi Abdul Gapur from Kuching, he opposed the Brooke rule over Sarawak. Others that who opposed the Brooke's rule are: Pangeran Ersat and his son Pangeran Nipa.
Syarif was upset by James Brooke's invasion of his territory, prompting Syarif to join forces with Datu Patinggi Abdul Gapur from Kuching to challenge the Brooke dynasty's authority in Sarawak. Other notable opponents of the Brookes include Pangeran Ersat and his son Pangeran Nipa.