Political overview
Brunei Darussalam is an absolute monarchy ruled by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who serves as head of state and government; the country’s political identity is closely shaped by the Sultanate and the official national philosophy, Melayu Islam Beraja (Malay Islamic Monarchy). The capital and administrative centre is Bandar Seri Begawan, and the country is divided into four districts (Brunei-Muara, Belait, Tutong and Temburong), with Brunei-Muara containing the capital and most of the population.
Cultural heritage and identity
Brunei’s culture is firmly Malay and Islamic in character: mosques, royal ceremonies, and traditional arts (like the water-village life of Kampong Ayer) are central to everyday identity. Visitors most often experience this living heritage at landmarks such as the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Kampong Ayer (the large stilted water village in Bandar Seri Begawan), and the Royal Regalia Museum places that showcase both religious life and the nation’s royal traditions. Internationally, Brunei is also widely recognized for its wealthy royal household and conservative application of Islamic values in public life.
Geographical landscape, area and climate
Brunei sits on the north coast of Borneo and is small in area but ecologically varied: coastal plains and mangroves give way inland to lowland and hill rainforests (notably Ulu Temburong National Park), making it attractive for eco-tourism and river excursions. The climate is tropical equatorial hot, humid and rainy year-round with monsoon influences and the country’s modern prosperity largely stems from oil and natural gas production, which shapes both its economy and its global profile.
