Brunei - Country facts
Location
Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
Background
The Sultanate of Brunei's influence peaked between the 15th and 17th centuries when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines. Brunei subsequently entered a period of decline brought on by internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate; independence was achieved in 1984. The same family has ruled Brunei for over six centuries. Brunei benefits from extensive petroleum and natural gas fields, the source of one of the highest per capita GDPs in the developing world.
Climate
tropical; hot, humid, rainy
Terrain
flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east; hilly lowland in west
Population
372,361 (July 2005 est.)
Ethnic Groups
Malay 67%, Chinese 15%, indigenous 6%, other 12%
Religions
Muslim (official) 67%, Buddhist 13%, Christian 10%, indigenous beliefs and other 10%
Languages
Malay (official), English, Chinese
Map of Brunei
| back | top |