Introduction
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.
Location
Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
Geographic coordinates
4 30 N, 114 40 E
Area
total: 5,770 sq km
water: 500 sq km
land: 5,270 sq km
Climate
tropical; hot, humid, rainy
Elevation extremes
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
highest point: Bukit Pagon 1,850 m
Natural resources
petroleum, natural gas, timber
Irrigated land
10 sq km (1998 est.)
Natural hazards
typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are rare
Environment - international agreements
party to: Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Geography - note
close to vital sea lanes through South China Sea linking Indian and Pacific Oceans; two parts physically separated by Malaysia; almost an enclave of Malaysia
Population
365,251 (July 2004 est.)
Capital
Bandar Seri Begawan