A tranquil nation, Brunei Darussalam’s modest size of 5,765 square kilometres is contrasted by its wealth. Situated along the northwest coastline of Borneo, the nation is home to some of the vastest oil fields and natural gas reserves in Southeast Asia.
Brunei’s economic success was driven by its petroleum industry, which accounts for over half of its gross domestic product (GDP) and 90 per cent of its exports. To reduce sole dependency on the petroleum industry for its economic growth, the government has introduced policies and initiatives to nurture other industries and diversify the economic growth.
Its population is ethnically diverse and has a reputation of being hospitable and accommodating among locals and to visitors alike. The country has an abundance of lush rainforests and forest reserve parks, boasts kilometres of sand beaches and its diving scene has continuously garnered growing interest from both local and international divers.
Brunei is governed by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the country’s 29th ruler, and follows the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), the national philosophy which underscores the Malay and Islamic values and traditions as the citizens’ way of life.
Copyright 2019 Borneo Bulletin Yearbook 2019 All rights reserved.
