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Brunei
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Customs and Culture
Customs and Culture
Cultural Attributes
Brunei's culture mainly derived from the Old Malay World, which encompassed the Malay Archipelago, and from this stemmed what is known as the Malay Civilization
Realm of the Golden Sultan
Social Customs & Etiquette
Greetings in Brunei reflect the country's deeply Islamic culture and the influence of Malay traditions. The most common formal greeting is "Assalamualaikum," an Arabic phrase meaning "Peace be upon you," to which the standard reply is "Waalaikumsalam." This exchange is used widely among Muslims and is considered the most respectful way to address someone, particularly in formal or official contexts.
The traditional Malay greeting "Apa khabar?" functions similarly to "How are you?" in English, with the typical response being "Khabar baik," meaning "I am well." These phrases are used in everyday conversation and are appreciated by visitors who make the effort to use them.
Physical greetings follow specific customs rooted in both Islamic practice and Malay culture. The traditional handshake among Malay Muslims involves a light, gentle clasp of both hands rather than a firm Western-style grip, followed by bringing both hands to the chest — a gesture that symbolizes greeting from the heart. This practice is known as the "salam." Men typically greet men and women greet women in this manner. Cross-gender physical contact, such as handshaking between men and women who are not related, is generally avoided unless the woman initiates the gesture first.
When addressing people, titles carry significant weight in Brunei's hierarchical society. Royalty and nobility hold formal honorifics that must be used correctly. For ordinary citizens, using "Awang" for men and "Dayang" for women is a sign of respect in formal contexts. Professional titles such as "Dato" or "Pengiran" denote rank and should be used when applicable.
Visitors to Brunei are encouraged to adopt a respectful and modest approach to greetings, avoiding overly familiar behavior upon first meeting. A slight nod or bow accompanied by a warm smile is always well received, even when language differences exist. Being aware of these customs demonstrates cultural sensitivity and goes a long way in building positive relationships with Bruneian hosts.
Diet
Brunei has a strong Muslim population and some of the eating customs follow Muslim culture. The right hand is used for eating and passing food, and food in all public eating places is prepared according to Muslim food rules and all eating places have to be certified as serving "halal" food. A typical breakfast might include rice porridge, rice with curry, laksa (noodles), roti (flat breads), toast, tea or coffee. Lunch might include rice and a side of vegetables, fish or meat, or murtabak (a meat-filled pastry). Dinner consists of rice and two or three side dishes and dessert, all served at the same time. Typical side dishes are soups made from vegetables, fish or meat while dessert is usually fresh fruit, or some sweet treat made from coconuts. Although fish is preferred, chicken is the second most commonly eaten meat. Typical foods include rice, fish, squash, banana, durian, rambutan, and eggplant.
Dating Customs
Dating and marriage customs in Brunei are deeply shaped by Islam, which is the official state religion, as well as by Malay cultural traditions. The government actively promotes Islamic values in social life, and this influence is clearly visible in how relationships and weddings are conducted.
Public displays of affection between unmarried couples are considered socially inappropriate and can attract disapproval or even legal scrutiny under Brunei's Sharia law framework. Dating, in the Western casual sense, is uncommon among the Muslim Malay majority. Instead, courtship tends to be more structured and family-oriented, often with parental knowledge and approval from an early stage. Introductions through family networks or community connections are a common way for potential partners to meet.
Marriage is regarded as a significant religious and social institution. Muslim marriages are registered through the Jabatan Hal Ehwal Masjid (Department of Religious Affairs) and must comply with Islamic requirements. A Muslim man may marry a non-Muslim woman only if she converts to Islam, and Muslim women are not permitted to marry non-Muslim men under Brunei's religious laws. Polygamy is legally permitted for Muslim men, who may have up to four wives, provided they can demonstrate the financial and emotional capacity to treat all wives equally, and they must obtain permission from religious authorities before taking additional spouses.
Traditional Malay weddings, known as "bersanding," are elaborate multi-day events that include ceremonies such as the "akad nikah" (the formal marriage contract), the solemnization, and a communal feast. Weddings are major social occasions that often involve the extended family and community.
The legal minimum age for marriage in Brunei is 14 for girls and 16 for boys with parental consent under civil law, though Islamic courts may handle Muslim marriages separately. Non-Muslim residents and citizens follow a different legal framework and generally have more flexibility in their personal relationships, though they remain subject to the country's broader social norms and laws.
Holidays
National Day
2/23Independence
1 January 1984 was the date of independence from the UK, 23 February 1984 was the date of independence from British protection. Parades are held at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium before an enthusiastic crowd of up to 35,000 spectators. It is an extravaganza of colour, music and lively displays. The Sultan and other members of the royal family attend the celebrations.
Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day
5/31Other
The formation of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces is commemorated every year on May 31, and the event usually takes place at the Taman Haji Sir Omar Ali Saiffudden in the heart of the city.
It consists of a military parade and displays, such as a parachute show or battle demonstrations.
His Majesty the Sultan's Birthday
7/15Birthday
This is a joyous occasion during which the whole country celebrates with festivities. It usually starts when the people gather at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien, in the centre of Bandar Seri Begawan.
The Sultan meets them and delivers the titah, speech, to mark the occasion. Following this is an investiture at the Istana Nurul Iman, and, for the next two weeks, a series of processions, parades and fireworks brighten the streets.
Chinese New Year
Other
The Chinese community celebrates this festival for two weeks. It begins with a traditional reunion dinner on the eve of the celebration, which all members of the family attend. Ang Pow or red packets are given to unmarried youngsters.
Christmas Day
12/25Christmas
Although not celebrated on a wide scale, Christmas Day is nevertheless a happy occasion well received by the nation. It centers around Bandar Seri Begawan and the Belait District, where the greatest concentration of Christian expatriates reside.
Dates of Interest
- December 25th
Although not celebrated on a wide scale, Christmas Day is nevertheless a happy occasion well received by the nation. It centers around Bandar Seri Begawan and the Belait District, where the greatest concentration of Christian expatriates resides.
What are the dining customs in Brunei?
Dining in Brunei follows Muslim customs, with food eaten and passed using the right hand and all public eating places serving certified halal food.
Do
- Use your right hand for eating and passing food
- Expect halal food at all public eating places
Good to know
- Breakfast may include rice porridge, rice with curry, laksa, roti, toast, tea or coffee
- Lunch might be rice with vegetables, fish or meat, or murtabak (meat-filled pastry)
- Dinner is rice with two or three side dishes and dessert served together
- Fish is preferred, with chicken the second most commonly eaten meat
What should I know about Brunei's culture before I go?
Brunei's culture derives mainly from the Old Malay World of the Malay Archipelago, forming what is known as the Malay Civilization, and has a strong Muslim population.
Good to know
- Typical foods include rice, fish, squash, banana, durian, rambutan, and eggplant
- Desserts are often fresh fruit or sweet treats made from coconuts
Last updated: 2026-07-12 · Sources: CountryReports
Photos of Brunei
Photos of Brunei
Travel and Tourism
Travel and Tourism
- Travel Alert Status
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
- Currency
- 1.386
- Time Difference
- UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
- Climate
- The country's landscape is mainly primary and secondary tropical rainforest with only a narrow coastal strip from Kuala Belait to Bandar Seri Begawan that is cultivated. The rainforest receives as much as 146 inches of rain in the interior, but only 108 inches a year is recorded on the coast. The two defined rainy seasons are from September to January (with December being the wettest month) and May to July. The climate is equatorial with uniform temperatures and high humidity.
- Airports
- 2
- Recommended Vaccinations
- How important is it to do your research about vaccinations? It might just save your life! Make yourself aware of the different types of vaccinations and which ones you may need to travel to your destination. Schedule an appointment with your doctor at least four to six weeks before you travel to ensure you receive all important shots. Be sure that you and your family are up to date on your routine vaccinations. Which vaccinations you need will depend on a number of factors including your destination, whether you will be spending time in rural areas, the season of the year you are traveling, your age, health status, and previous immunizations.
Read the full travel guide — health, safety, vaccinations, disease risk, sanitation, and transit details.
View full travel guideRecipes
Recipes
History
History
Historical Eras
Ancient Po-ni
700 – 1368
Chinese and Arabic records document an early trading kingdom at the mouth of the Brunei River as far back as the seventh or eighth century. Known to the Chinese as Po-ni, it fell under the influence of the Sumatran Srivijaya Empire and later the Javanese Majapahit Empire before reasserting its independence. This period laid the cultural and commercial foundations for the later Brunei Sultanate.
Brunei Sultanate Golden Age
1368 – 1619
The Brunei Sultanate rose to regional dominance, extending its authority over the whole of Borneo and into the Philippines. Sultan Bolkiah, the fifth ruler (1473–1521), led celebrated maritime campaigns and briefly captured Manila, while the ninth sultan, Hassan (1605–1619), formalized an elaborate royal court structure that persists in modified form today. This era represents the height of Bruneian political, cultural, and commercial power.
Decline & European Pressure
1619 – 1888
Internal succession disputes weakened the sultanate as European colonial powers disrupted traditional trade networks across Southeast Asia. British adventurer James Brooke arrived in 1839, suppressed a rebellion, and was rewarded with governance of Sarawak, gradually stripping Brunei of territory. By 1846 Brunei had ceded Labuan to Britain, reducing the sultanate to approximately its present size.
British Protectorate
1888 – 1941
In 1888 Brunei formally became a British protectorate, retaining internal autonomy while ceding control of foreign affairs to London. A Residential System introduced in 1906 placed a British Resident as executive adviser to the sultan on all matters except religion and custom. The discovery of significant oil deposits at Seria in 1929 transformed Brunei's economic prospects and drew renewed strategic interest from Britain.
Japanese Occupation & Decolonization
1941 – 1984
Japan occupied Brunei from 1941 to 1945, severely disrupting oil production and civilian life before Allied forces restored British administration. A 1959 constitution granted self-governance in internal affairs, though an armed uprising by the Parti Rakyat Brunei in 1962 led the sultan to abandon plans for a partially elected legislature. Brunei declined to join the Malaysian federation and on January 1, 1984, became a fully independent sovereign state.
Independent Brunei
1984 – present
Under Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the 29th ruler, independent Brunei has pursued a philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja — Malay Islamic Monarchy — as its national ideology. Vast petroleum and natural gas revenues have sustained among the highest per capita incomes in the developing world and funded extensive public welfare provisions. Brunei joined ASEAN in 1984 and has maintained political stability under continued absolute monarchical rule.
Overview
The Brunei Empire had its golden age from the 15th to the 17th centuries, when its control extended over the entire island of Borneo and north into the Philippines. Brunei was particularly powerful under the fifth sultan, Bolkiah (1473-1521), who was famed for his sea exploits and even briefly captured Manila; and under the ninth sultan, Hassan (1605-19), who fully developed an elaborate Royal Court structure, elements of which remain today.
After Sultan Hassan, Brunei entered a period of decline due to internal battles over royal succession as well as the rising influences of European colonial powers in the region that, among other things, disrupted traditional trading patterns, destroying the economic base of Brunei and many other Southeast Asian sultanates. In 1839, the English adventurer James Brooke arrived in Borneo and helped the Sultan put down a rebellion. As a reward, he became governor and later "Rajah" of Sarawak in northwest Borneo and gradually expanded the territory under his control.
Meanwhile, the British North Borneo Company was expanding its control over territory in northeast Borneo. In 1888, Brunei became a protectorate of the British Government, retaining internal independence but with British control over external affairs. In 1906, Brunei accepted a further measure of British control when executive power was transferred to a British resident, who advised the ruler on all matters except those concerning local custom and religion.
In 1959, a new constitution was written declaring Brunei a self-governing state, while its foreign affairs, security, and defense remained the responsibility of the United Kingdom. An attempt in 1962 to introduce a partially elected legislative body with limited powers was abandoned after the opposition political party, Parti Rakyat Brunei, launched an armed uprising, which the government put down with the help of British forces. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the government also resisted pressures to join neighboring Sabah and Sarawak in the newly formed Malaysia. The Sultan eventually decided that Brunei would remain an independent state.
In 1967, Sultan Omar abdicated in favor of his eldest son, Hassanal Bolkiah, who became the 29th ruler. The former Sultan remained as Defense Minister and assumed the royal title Seri Begawan. In 1970, the national capital, Brunei Town, was renamed Bandar Seri Begawan in his honor. The Seri Begawan died in 1986.
On January 4, 1979, Brunei and the United Kingdom signed a new treaty of friendship and cooperation. On January 1, 1984, Brunei Darussalam became a fully independent state.
Timeline of Key Events
1521
Brunei visited by Spanish navigator Juan Sebastian del Cano.
Brunei visited by Spanish navigator Juan Sebastian del Cano.
1841
Sultan of Brunei Omar Ali Saifuddin II rewards British army officer James Brooke.
Sultan of Brunei Omar Ali Saifuddin II rewards British army officer James Brooke for helping to quell a civil war by granting him control of Sarawak.
1846
Brunei reduced to its present size after ceding the island of Labuan to Britain.
Brunei reduced to its present size after ceding the island of Labuan to Britain.
1888
Brunei becomes a British protectorate.
Brunei becomes a British protectorate.
1941 – 1945
Japan occupies Brunei.
Japan occupies Brunei.
1984
Brunei becomes independent.
Brunei becomes independent.
1998
Sultan Bolkiah removes his younger brother, Prince Jefri Bolkiah.
Sultan Bolkiah removes his younger brother, Prince Jefri Bolkiah, as chief of Brunei Investment Agency over concerns about his stewardship of agency; Sultan Bolkiah’s eldest son, Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah, becomes heir apparent.
Read the full history profile — narrative overview, defining eras, and the complete timeline in one place.
View expanded historyInteresting Facts
Interesting Facts
This tiny oil-rich Islamic sultanate on the northwest coast of Borneo is known chiefly for the astounding wealth of its sultan, its tax-free, subsidised society, and the fact that (statistically at least) its population enjoy one of the highest per capita incomes on earth.
See every fact — trivia, oddities, and curious tidbits gathered from across the country.
View all interesting factsGeography and Environment
Geography and Environment
- Terrain
- flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east; hilly lowland in west
- Climate
- The country’s landscape is mainly primary and secondary tropical rainforest with only a narrow coastal strip from Kuala Belait to Bandar Seri Begawan that is cultivated. The rainforest receives as much as 146 inches of rain in the interior, but only 108 inches a year is recorded on the coast. The two defined rainy seasons are from September to January (with December being the wettest month) and May to July. The climate is equatorial with uniform temperatures and high humidity.
- Natural Hazards
- typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are rare
- Current Environmental Issues
- seasonal smoke/haze resulting from forest fires in Indonesia
Read the full geography and environment profile — terrain, climate, natural resources, hazards, land use, and international agreements.
View full geographyPeople & Demographics
People & Demographics
Religion
Languages Spoken
Malay (official), English, Chinese
- English
- Malay
Population
- Population
- 484,000
- Population in Major Urban Areas
- BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (capital) 241,000 Note: the boundaries of the capital city were expanded in 2007, greatly increasing the city area; the population of the capital increased tenfold
- Nationality Noun
- Bruneian(s)
- Ethnic Groups
- Malay 67%, Chinese 15%, indigenous 6%, other 12%
Education
- Literacy Definition
- Age 15 and over can read and write
Health Information
- Life Expectancy at Birth
- Life expectancy at birth in Brunei stands among the highest in Southeast Asia, reflecting the country's well-funded healthcare infrastructure and relatively high standard of living. As of recent estimates, the average life expectancy at birth is approximately 75 to 76 years overall, with women typically living longer than men — around 78 years for females compared to roughly 73 years for males. Brunei's strong life expectancy figures are closely tied to the government's commitment to universal healthcare. The country operates a heavily subsidized public health system that provides citizens and permanent residents with access to hospitals, clinics, and specialist care at minimal or no cost. The Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in Bandar Seri Begawan serves as the country's main referral hospital and is equipped with modern medical facilities and trained specialists. Several factors contribute to the relatively favorable life expectancy outcomes. Brunei benefits from a high per capita income, largely driven by its oil and gas sector, which enables significant government investment in health services, clean water infrastructure, and sanitation. These conditions reduce mortality risks associated with poverty-linked diseases common in less developed nations. However, Brunei also faces health challenges that place pressure on longevity trends. Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity are growing concerns. The country has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the region, and sedentary lifestyles combined with dietary habits high in refined carbohydrates and fats have contributed to rising rates of metabolic conditions. Public health campaigns and national wellness programs have been introduced to address these trends and promote preventive care. Infant mortality rates in Brunei are low, contributing positively to overall life expectancy calculations. The government provides comprehensive maternal and child health services, which has helped keep neonatal and infant deaths at minimal levels. When compared globally, Brunei's life expectancy figures are competitive with many middle- and high-income nations, placing it well above the global average and reflecting a healthcare system that, while not without challenges, successfully supports the longevity of its population.
Life Expectancy
- Life Expectancy at Birth
- Life expectancy at birth in Brunei stands among the highest in Southeast Asia, reflecting the country's well-funded healthcare infrastructure and relatively high standard of living. As of recent estimates, the average life expectancy at birth is approximately 75 to 76 years overall, with women typically living longer than men — around 78 years for females compared to roughly 73 years for males. Brunei's strong life expectancy figures are closely tied to the government's commitment to universal healthcare. The country operates a heavily subsidized public health system that provides citizens and permanent residents with access to hospitals, clinics, and specialist care at minimal or no cost. The Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in Bandar Seri Begawan serves as the country's main referral hospital and is equipped with modern medical facilities and trained specialists. Several factors contribute to the relatively favorable life expectancy outcomes. Brunei benefits from a high per capita income, largely driven by its oil and gas sector, which enables significant government investment in health services, clean water infrastructure, and sanitation. These conditions reduce mortality risks associated with poverty-linked diseases common in less developed nations. However, Brunei also faces health challenges that place pressure on longevity trends. Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity are growing concerns. The country has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the region, and sedentary lifestyles combined with dietary habits high in refined carbohydrates and fats have contributed to rising rates of metabolic conditions. Public health campaigns and national wellness programs have been introduced to address these trends and promote preventive care. Infant mortality rates in Brunei are low, contributing positively to overall life expectancy calculations. The government provides comprehensive maternal and child health services, which has helped keep neonatal and infant deaths at minimal levels. When compared globally, Brunei's life expectancy figures are competitive with many middle- and high-income nations, placing it well above the global average and reflecting a healthcare system that, while not without challenges, successfully supports the longevity of its population.
Read the full people and society profile — demographics, health, education, religion, languages, and notable people.
View full people and societyGovernment & Politics
Government & Politics
Country Identity
- Country Name
- Brunei
- Full Country Name
- Negara Brunei Darussalam
Government Structure
- Government Type
- constitutional sultanate
- Legal System
- based on English common law; for Muslims, Islamic Shari'a law supersedes civil law in a number of areas
- Executive Branch
- chief of state: Sultan and Prime Minister Sir HASSANAL Bolkiah (since 5 October 1967); note - the monarch is both the chief of state and head of government head of government: Sultan and Prime Minister Sir HASSANAL Bolkiah (since 5 October 1967); note - the monarch is both the chief of state and head of government; Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah has served as Senior Minister in the Prime Minister's Office since 2005 cabinet: Council of Cabinet Ministers appointed and presided over by the monarch; deals with executive matters; note - there is also a Religious Council (members appointed by the monarch) that advises on Islamic affairs, a Privy Council (members appointed by the monarch) that deals with constitutional matters, and the Council of Succession (members appointed by the monarch) that determines the succession to the throne if the need arises elections: none; the monarch is hereditary; Brunei is an absolute monarchy governed in accordance with a constitution and the principles of the Melayu Islam Beraja (Malay Islamic Monarchy) national philosophy
- Legislative Branch
- Brunei's Legislative Council (Majlis Mesyuarat Negara) has no elected members and functions in a purely appointed advisory capacity. The council was reconvened on 25 September 2004 for the first time in 20 years, with 21 members appointed by the Sultan, and subsequently passed constitutional amendments calling for a 45-seat council with up to 15 elected members. The Sultan dissolved the council on 1 September 2005 and appointed a new, expanded council effective 2 September 2005. The council has continued to operate in an appointed form, with membership periodically revised by royal decree. As of recent years, the council consists of appointed members drawn from ex-officio officials, nominated representatives, and appointed members chosen by the Sultan. No elections have been held since March 1962, and no date for future elections has been announced, reflecting Brunei's status as an absolute monarchy governed under a framework that does not currently provide for democratic electoral participation at the national legislative level.
- Judicial Branch
- Supreme Court - chief justice and judges are sworn in by monarch for three-year terms; Judicial Committee of Privy Council in London is final court of appeal for civil cases; Shariah courts deal with Islamic laws (2006)
- Suffrage
- none
- Constitution
- 29 September 1959 (some provisions suspended under a State of Emergency since December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984)
- Independence
- 1 January 1984 (from UK)
- National Holiday
- National Day, 23 February (1984); note - 1 January 1984 was the date of independence from the UK, 23 February 1984 was the date of independence from British protection
Capital City
- Capital Name
- Bandar Seri Begawan
- Capital - geographic coordinate
- 4 53 N, 114 56 E
- Capital Time Difference
- UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
named in 1970 after Sultan Omar Ali SAIFUDDIEN III (1914-1986; "The Father of Independence") who adopted the title of "Seri Begawan" (approximate meaning "honored lord") upon his abdication in 1967; "bandar" in Malay means "town" or "city"; the capital had previously been called Bandar Brunei (Brunei Town)
Military
Branches: Royal Brunei Armed Forces: Royal Brunei Land Forces, Royal Brunei Navy, Royal Brunei Air Force (Tentera Udara Diraja Brunei)
Embassy / Diplomatic Mission
U.S. Embassy Bandar Seri Begawan
Simpang 336-52-16-9
Jalan Kebangsaan
Bandar Seri Begawan BC4115, Brunei Darussalam.
Mail from the United States can be sent to the Embassy's address:
U.S. Embassy, P.O. Box 2991, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8675, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Telephone: 673-238-4616
After-hour emergency telephone: (673) 873-0691
Fax number: (673) 238-4606
Read the full government profile — flag symbolism, national anthem, and other national symbols.
View full government detailsEconomy
Economy
Brunei's small but wealthy economy blends foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government regulation, extensive welfare provisions, and longstanding cultural traditions. Crude oil and natural gas remain the dominant industries, together accounting for approximately half of GDP and the vast majority of government revenue and export earnings. Per capita GDP is among the highest in Southeast Asia, and the country benefits from substantial returns on overseas investments that supplement domestic production. The government continues to provide free medical services and heavily subsidizes essential goods including rice, fuel, and housing.
Brunei's leadership remains mindful of the social pressures that come with deeper global economic integration, while actively pursuing international partnerships through forums such as APEC, ASEAN, and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, which Brunei ratified as a founding member. Economic diversification has become an urgent national priority, captured in the long-term development strategy known as Wawasan Brunei 2035, which aims to transform the country into a knowledge-based, highly skilled economy by that year. Key focus areas include expanding the financial services, halal food manufacturing, downstream petrochemicals, information and communications technology, and tourism sectors. Major investments such as the Hengyi Industries refinery and petrochemical complex on Pulau Muara Besar have helped broaden the industrial base, though they remain tied to the hydrocarbons value chain. Efforts are also ongoing to increase private sector participation, reduce dependence on public sector employment, and attract greater levels of foreign direct investment. While progress on diversification has been gradual and the economy contracted in several recent years due to fluctuating energy output and global price pressures, Brunei's considerable sovereign wealth reserves provide a stable financial cushion as the country works to broaden its economic base beyond hydrocarbons.
Snapshot
- Currency Name and Code
- Bruneian dollars (BND)
- GDP Real Growth Rate
- 1%
Banknotes
Budget & Public Finance
- Fiscal Year
- calendar year
- Annual Budget
- $4,815,000,000 (USD)
- Economic Aid
- $4,300,000 (USD)
Labor, Industry & Trade
- Labor Force by Occupation
- government 48%; production of oil; natural gas; services; and construction 42%; agriculture; forestry; and fishing 10%
- Industries
- petroleum, petroleum refining, liquefied natural gas, construction
- Agriculture Products
- rice, vegetables, fruits, chickens, water buffalo
- Export Commodities
- crude oil, natural gas, refined products
- Export Partners
- Japan 40%, South Korea 12.2%, Thailand 12%, Australia 9.1%, US 8.1%, China 6.4%, Singapore 5.6%
- Import Commodities
- machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, chemicals
- Import Partners
- Singapore 30.7%, Japan 21.5%, Malaysia 17.4%, UK 6.1%
Energy
- Oil Production
- 200,800 bbl/day
- Oil Consumption
- 10,770 bbl/day
- Oil Reserves
- 1,255,000,000 bbl/day
- Natural Gas Production
- 11,400,000,000 cu m
- Natural Gas Consumption
- 1,730,000,000 cu m
- Natural Gas Imports
- 0 cu m
- Natural Gas Exports
- 9,000,000,000 cu m
- Natural Gas Reserves
- 390,800,000,000 cu m
Communications
- Telephone System
- General Assessment: service throughout the country is good; international service is good to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Western Europe, and the US Domestic: every service available International: country code - 673; landing point for the SEA-ME-WE-3 optical telecommunications submarine cable that provides links to Asia, the Middle East, and Europe; the Asia-America Gateway submarine cable network provides new links to Asia and the US; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
- Internet Country Code
- .bn
News & Weather
News & Weather
Current Weather
Latest News
Chinese PLA Navy's 83rd task force conducts exchange activities in Brunei - China Military Online
China Military Online · 53m ago
Taliban Envoy, Brunei's Grand Mufti Discuss Religious and Bilateral Cooperation in Malaysia - thekabultribune.com
thekabultribune.com · 6d ago
Brunei - World Population Review
World Population Review · 3d ago
China, Brunei set example for bilateral ties between large, small nations: Chinese FM - Xinhua
Xinhua · 4d ago
Chinese naval fleet arrives in Brunei for friendly visit - bastillepost.com
bastillepost.com · 3d ago
Chinese Naval Task Group Arrives In Brunei For Visit - Ministry of National Defense People's Republic of China
Ministry of National Defense People's Republic of China · 3d ago
The Sultan of Brunei turns 80: Inside His $16 billion fortune and record-breaking reign - HOLA
HOLA · 12d ago
Chinese naval vessel visits Brunei, public can visit free of charge - The Star
The Star · 3d ago
News via Google News
Climate Overview
The country's landscape is mainly primary and secondary tropical rainforest with only a narrow coastal strip from Kuala Belait to Bandar Seri Begawan that is cultivated. The rainforest receives as much as 146 inches of rain in the interior, but only 108 inches a year is recorded on the coast. The two defined rainy seasons are from September to January (with December being the wettest month) and May to July. The climate is equatorial with uniform temperatures and high humidity.
Videos
Videos
1 curated YouTube videos.
Source: YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Brunei?
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What should I know about Brunei's culture before I go?
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Last reviewed 2026