FACTS
Did you know that Brunei’s national dish was borne of a time of strife and hardship? Everything you need to know about Brunei today, and a look at how the country’s history has influenced its society.
‘Ambuyat’
Brunei’s national dish was borne out of a period of hard times. ‘Ambuyat’, which is made of sago from the rumbia tree, was a staple food during World War II, when rice and meat were too expensive. Nowadays, it’s served in several restaurants as a local delicacy with sauces on the side and eaten with a form of wooden chopsticks called ‘candas’.
‘Bah’
If one Bruneian word could express a plethora of emotions, it would be ‘Bah’. It can be used to say yes, as a greeting, as a way to express frustration, or even resignation, depending on the tone of one’s voice!
‘Baru Nah’
When Brunei was discovered by a group of brothers looking for a new home, led by Pateh Berbai, he’d exclaimed, “Baru nah!”, loosely translated to “Now we’ve found it!”, which is the origin of the country’s name.
Capital City
Bandar Seri Begawan, affectionately referred to as ‘Bandar’ by the locals, is the capital city of the sultanate, and hosts some of Brunei-Muara District’s most prominent tourist attractions as well, including the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Kampong Ayer! The city also lies along the Brunei River, and you can spend an entire day walking around to explore its charms and historical marvels.
‘Darussalam’
‘Darussalam’ was added to the country’s name by the third ruler, Sultan Sharif Ali, revered in history as the first Sultan to build a mosque in the country and governing according to Islamic principles. The term, which is Arabic (and consequently, so was Sultan Sharif Ali!), means ‘Abode of Peace’.
Islam
Brunei has a rich Islamic heritage, and its practices are regularly observed by the people as the country’s official religion. The nation has some of the region’s most beautiful and iconic mosques, with ancient artifacts of the country’s history. All are welcomed to explore and understand the Islamic values which are integrated with the culture and civilisation of Brunei and its people.
Location & Population
Brunei has a population of 421,300, with an incredibly colourful mix of cultures! The country has four districts and is located on Borneo island, between the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. It also has a 160km long coastline of sandy beaches, all of them a perfect spot to gaze at Brunei’s golden sunsets.
Language and Culture
Bahasa Melayu, or Malay, is the official language of Brunei. However, English is the language of business and is widely spoken at all levels. Mandarin, Chinese dialects and native Borneo languages are also spoken by various segments of the population. Bruneians are predominantly Malay, though signicant Chinese, Indian and indigenous Bornean populations add to the cultural makeup of Brunei.
National Day
Brunei celebrates National Day on February 23rd, in the very place that it declared independence: the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, right in the heart of the capital. It’s also one of the best times to visit Brunei, as the city truly comes alive for the annual National Day celebrations!
National Philosophy (Malay Islamic Monarchy)
The philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (Melayu Islam Beraja) is a system that encompasses traditions dating back to the early days of the South East Asian Malay Kingdoms and that stresses the Malay cultural influence on the nation’s fabric, the importance of the Islamic religion in many aspects of daily life and governance (known as the Negara Zikir concept), and the acceptance and respect for Brunei’s ancient Monarchic tradition.
Oil & Gas
In 1929, oil was first discovered in Seria, in the Belait District, and marked the start of the economy’s upward trajectory for Brunei. In 1991, that first oil field produced its billionth barrel and a monument was built near the original site to mark the achievement! Thanks to the oil and gas industry, the people have enjoyed significant benefits such as practically free healthcare and an affordable housing system.
Weather
Sunny with a chance of showers would be the best way to describe the weather in Brunei. Clear, blue skies are pretty much a daily phenomenon, but do take note that the wettest months are from October to January and from May to July. An up-to-date, daily forecast of the weather can be found here.