Brunei Darussalam, commonly known as Brunei, is located on the northwestern coast of the island of Borneo. It is bordered by the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah and is separated from the South China Sea by its northern coastline.
Geography
Climate
Brunei has a tropical rainforest climate characterized by high humidity and consistent temperatures throughout the year. The country experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season from November to March and the dry season from April to October.
Fauna
Brunei’s rainforests are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, orangutans, pygmy elephants, and numerous bird species. The dense forests also harbor a rich variety of flora, with towering trees, vibrant orchids, and unique plant species.
Longest Rivers
The longest river in Brunei is the Belait River, which flows through the Belait District in the western part of the country. Other significant rivers include the Tutong River and the Temburong River, which provide vital water sources and transportation routes.
Highest Mountains
Brunei is relatively flat, with its highest peak, Bukit Pagon, reaching an elevation of 1,850 meters (6,070 feet). Located in the Temburong District, Bukit Pagon offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts.
History
Prehistory
Brunei’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 1,000 years. The earliest settlers were believed to be indigenous tribes who lived in the region’s riverine areas and coastal areas.
Early Kingdoms
Brunei’s history is closely intertwined with the rise of the Bruneian Empire, which flourished from the 14th to the 17th centuries. The empire was a powerful maritime kingdom that controlled vast territories in Borneo and the surrounding islands, engaging in trade and maritime exploration.
Colonial Era
Brunei came under European influence during the colonial period, with the arrival of Portuguese and Spanish explorers in the 16th century. However, it was the arrival of the British in the 19th century that had a lasting impact on the country, as Brunei became a British protectorate in 1888.
Modern Age
Brunei gained independence from Britain in 1984 and transformed into a modern and prosperous nation under the leadership of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. Today, Brunei is known for its stable government, high standard of living, and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
Demographics
Brunei has a population of approximately 450,000 people, with the majority of residents concentrated in urban areas such as the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. The population is ethnically diverse, with Malays being the largest ethnic group, followed by Chinese, indigenous peoples, and expatriates.
Administrative Divisions
Brunei is divided into four districts, each with its own administrative center and local government. These districts are further subdivided into mukims, or sub-districts, and villages.
Administrative Divisions and Population (2022 estimate)
- Brunei-Muara District – Population: 300,000
- Belait District – Population: 120,000
- Tutong District – Population: 70,000
- Temburong District – Population: 10,000
10 Largest Cities by Population
- Bandar Seri Begawan
- Kuala Belait
- Seria
- Tutong
- Bangar
- Gadong
- Muara
- Jerudong
- Mentiri
- Lumapas
Education Systems
Education in Brunei is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The government operates a comprehensive education system that includes primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Brunei has several institutions of higher learning, including the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and the Institute of Technology Brunei (ITB).
Transportation
Airports
Brunei has one international airport, Brunei International Airport, located near the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan. The airport serves as the main gateway to the country, offering connections to major cities in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Highways
Brunei has a well-maintained network of roads and highways that connect its major towns and cities. The main highway, known as the Sungai Brunei Highway, runs along the northern coast of the country, linking Bandar Seri Begawan with other urban centers.
Ports
Brunei has several ports along its coastline, including the Muara Port, which serves as the country’s principal seaport for cargo and passenger traffic. The port plays a vital role in facilitating trade and commerce with neighboring countries in the region.
Country Facts
- Population: 450,000
- Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan
- Language: Malay (official), English, Chinese
- Religion: Islam (predominantly)
- Race: Malay, Chinese, indigenous peoples
- Currency: Brunei Dollar (BND)
- ISO Country Code: BN
- International Calling Code: +673
- Top-level Domain: .bn