Looking to boost your knowledge of the countries of Southeast Asia? Take a look at these fun facts about Brunei and increase your chances of being crowned the next pub quiz champion!
1. Small but mighty!
Brunei is a tiny country consisting of two distinct sections on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia.
2. It’s got seaside and interesting neighbours.
It is bordered solely by Malaysia to the west, east and south. It also has a coastline along the South China Sea to the north.
3. Want to find Brunei?
To enjoy the stunning sandy beaches or beautiful towns and cities for yourself, head for the coordinates of 4.8903° N, 114.9422° E to explore Brunei.
4. It’s mostly jungles here!
The terrain here is largely covered in jungle, with flat coastal plains rising to mountains in the east and hilly lowlands in the west.
5. Seriously, Brunei is tiny!
The total land area of Brunei is 2,226 square miles (5,765 square kilometres) …that’s slightly larger than Norfolk.
6. It’s also pretty sparse!
Brunei’s population was 449,002 in 2022…that’s around half the population of Norfolk!
7. What’s the capital city of Brunei?
The capital is Bandar Seri Begawan; it covers an area of 39 square miles (100 square kilometres) and had a population of 241,000 in 2011.
8. Grab an umbrella, but don’t wrap up!
Bruneians enjoy a tropical climate with hot, humid and often rainy weather.
9. Do people speak English in Brunei?
The official language of Brunei is Malay, although English and Chinese are also spoken here.
10. Now that’s a motoring maniac!
Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei, reportedly has a collection of more than 5,000 cars!
11. The monarchy goes back centuries.
The same royal family have ruled Brunei for more than 600 years!
12. Brunei used to be protected by the British Empire.
After almost 100 years of protectorship, Brunei gained independence from Great Britain in 1984.
13. Want to get your spending money right?
Brunei Dollar is the official currency here.
14. Watch your digits!
Apparently it is considered rude to point with your finger in Brunei, instead you must point with your thumb!
15. Life expectancy here is pretty impressive.
The average life span here is 74.64 years (2021).
16. Sounds like a great deal!
Citizens of Brunei pay no income tax! Despite this, healthcare and education are free!
17. Keep the bottles down low – or leave them at home.
It is illegal to drink alcohol in public in Brunei.
18. Brunei’s exports and industries are varied.
Brunei grows vegetables, rice and fruits; they also rear chickens.
Its industry consists of petroleum, petroleum refining, construction and liquified natural gas.
The main exports consist of natural gas, crude oil and refined products.
19. The current Sultan of Brunei is one of the world’s richest people.
The Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, was valued by Forbes at approximately 20 billion USD in 2008, making him the second-wealthiest royal and world’s wealthiest king.
FAQs about Brunei
Is Brunei a safe country to visit?
In comparison with other countries in south east Asia, Brunei is considered one of the absolute safest for people to visit.
Is Brunei expensive to visit?
It can be a little more expensive than you imagine - however, it is well worth saving the dollars.
What is the main religion in Brunei?
Brunei’s main religion is Islam, however, there are people who observe Christianity and Hinduism in the country, too.
Do you know any fun facts about Brunei? Share them in the comments below!