General Brief on Brunei Darussalam

Brunei Darussalam (Brunei, Abode of Peace) is a small, peaceful, prosperous, oil rich Kingdom located on the northern shore of the ecologically rich island of Borneo. Modern and distinctly Asian, Brunei maintains a quiet, contemplative respect for tradition, reflected in its noble Islamic Architecture, hospitable people and reverence for six-centuries old monarchy. The total land area of the country is just over 5,765 square kilometers, making the Sultanate one of the smallest sovereign nations in the world with a population of 372,000.

Bruneians are predominantly Malay, though significant Chinese, Indian and Indigenous Borneon populations add to the cultural makeup of Brunei. The nation's official language is Malay, but English is widely spoken by most of the population.

Brunei Darussalam is also known as a nation that practices strong Islamic faith since Islam's arrival to the country in the 14th century, thus becoming the official religion of Brunei.

Apart from that fact, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the 29th Sultan of Brunei officially proclaimed MIB philosophy on the first of January 1984, the very moment Brunei Darussalam assumed its independent and sovereign status.

MIB which stands for ‘Melayu Islam Beraja' where in English means ‘Malay Islamic Monarchy' since then become the nation's formal guiding light and as a new way of life for Brunei Darussalam.

The nation's Malay Islamic Monarchy is a uniquely Bruneian blend combining the best of Malay culture with the teachings of Islam and a mutual respect between ruler and subjects.

The national philosophy is aimed at forging a stronger sense of identity as well as fostering unity and stability. While Brunei is indeed a devoutly Muslim country, the national philosophy is one of respectful tolerance, allowing for the practice of other religions and belief.

The strong presence of Islam in Brunei Darussalam spans over 600 years of recorded history with plenty of Islamic architectures visible throughout the country dotted by beautiful mosques with the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque being the largest and arguably the most magnificent.


Places To Stay

There is a wide choice of hotels, guesthouses and serviced apartments in the capital and throughout the country. Hotel accommodation in Brunei Darussalam caters to all types of visitors, from luxury to business to tourist class. From the impeccable elegance of the "7-stars" Empire Hotel & Country Club or the business refinement and efficiency of the Sheraton Utama and Orchid Garden Hotel, to a number of mid-range and budget hotels and guesthouses throughout the nation, visitors will be greeted with friendly service and Brunei's trademark hospitality.