Background:The Sultanate of Brunei's heyday occurred 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. Brunei benefits from extensive petroleum and natural gas fields, the source of one of the highest per capita GDPs in the less developed countries. The same family has now ruled Brunei for over six centuries.
Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
Geographic coordinates: 4 30 N, 114 40 E
Area:5,770 sq km
Coastline:161 km
Climate:tropical; hot, humid, rainy
Population:365,251(July 2004 est.)
Ethnic groups:Malay 67%, Chinese 15%, indigenous 6%, other 12%
Languages:Malay (official), English, Chinese
conventional long form: Negara Brunei
Government type:constitutional sultanate
Capital:Bandar Seri Begawan
Administrative divisions:4 districts (daerah-daerah, singular - daerah); Belait, Brunei and Muara, Temburong, Tutong
Independence:1 January 1984 (from UK)
Economy:This small, wealthy economy is a mixture of foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government regulation, welfare measures, and village tradition. Crude oil and natural gas production account for nearly half of GDP. Per capita GDP is far above most other Third World countries, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements income from domestic production. Brunei's leaders are concerned that steadily increased integration in the world economy will undermine internal social cohesion although it became a more prominent player by serving as chairman for the 2000 APEC (Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) forum.
Religions:Muslim (official) 67%, Buddhist 13%, Christian 10%, indigenous beliefs and other 10%
Natural resources:petroleum, natural gas, timber
