As Sultan, Sharif Ali made several changes closely linked to Islamic Law, including basing the administration's rule on the law, straightening the direction of the Qiblah, and creating a law prohibiting people from eating pork. The penalty for violating this law was death. Besides religious affairs, Ali's administration was responsible for a number of legacies including creating an emblem and banner – the "Tunggul Alam Bernaga" – which symbolised the dignity of Brunei and the Crown of the Sultan.
Sultan Sharif Ali's rule was marked by Islamic Law principles, including legal governance, aligning prayer direction with Mecca, and a law against pork consumption. His administration also left behind symbols like the "Tunggul Alam Bernaga" to represent Brunei's prestige and the Sultan's authority.