Introduction to Brunei Darussalam

Book excerpt: Brunei Darussalam is a small country located in Southeast Asia with a population of approximately 442,400 people. The country is situated on the northern coast of the island of Borneo and shares land borders with Malaysia. Brunei Darussalam has a rich history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the 6th century. The country was ruled by the Bruneian Empire from the 14th to the 16th century and later became a protectorate of the United Kingdom. Brunei achieved independence in 1984 and has since been governed as an absolute monarchy under the Sultan of Brunei. Brunei Darussalam has a thriving economy based primarily on the production of crude oil and natural gas. The country has one of the highest standards of living in Southeast Asia with a relatively low unemployment rate and a well-developed infrastructure. Despite its small size, Brunei Darussalam has a rich cultural heritage with a diverse population consisting of various ethnicities including Malays, Chinese, and indigenous groups. The country is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with pristine rainforests, white sand beaches, and breathtaking coral reefs. Brunei Darussalam is also home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, including the proboscis monkey and the carnivorous pitcher plant.