Brunei
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At a glance
- Region
- South-Eastern Asia
- Capital
- Bandar Seri Begawan
- Population
- 463,000 (2024)
- Area
- 5,765 km²
- Languages
- Malay
- Currency
- Brunei dollar (BND), Singapore dollar (SGD)
- Drives on the
- left
- Calling code
- +673
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Before you go
Overview
Brunei is situated at the northern of the Island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. By 2018 it recorded a population of 428,962 with an area of 5,765 km2.
The capital city is Bandar Seri Begawan. The growth of the economy is driven by oil production which is the country’s main export. The second-largest city is Kuala Belait at the westernmost part of the country.
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.
History
It became a British protectorate in 1888. In October 1967, Sultan Omar was abdicated who was succeeded by his son Hassanal Bolkiah as the sultan. It gained independence in 1984. It adopted the Islamic Sharia law in 2014 despite international criticism.
Food & culture
The country’s culture is influenced by Malay cultures and the Islam religion.
The main food crops in the country are rice, wheat, cassava and maize.
Wildlife
Brunei’s forests have animals like the green crested lizard, proboscis monkey, bats, python, sun bear and sea eagle which is the national animal. Orangutans which are rare to find can also be found here.
Festivals & events
Brunei’s festivals include Ramadan, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Raya Aidiladha, the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day, the National day on 23rd February for commemorating the day when the country became independent and the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.
Things to see
The country has beautiful mosques like Omar Ali Saifuddien and Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah and Islamic architecture.
There is also an artificial lagoon near Brunei River.
Other places to visit include Belait District museum, Silver Jubilee Park and Sungai Liang Forestry Recreation Park.
The best months to visit are between January and May when it is dry.
Interesting facts
Brunei’s official language is Standard Malay; English is also common during the business.
The education system comprises of general education for 12 years divided into pre-school, primary and secondary level; and Islamic religious primary education for 7 years compulsory for all Muslim children.
The predominant religion is Sunni Islam and the most popular sport in the country is association football.
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Brunei
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