Located 443 km north of the equator, Brunei Darussalam’s land area covers 5,765 sq km. It faces the South China Sea on Borneo’s northwestern shore and shares a common border with the East Malaysian State of Sarawak.
Brunei Darussalam is rich in oil and gas.
There are four districts : Brunei-Muara, Temburong, Tutong and Belait. The coastal oil and gas towns of Seria and Kuala Belait are about 100 km from the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan.
The population as at July 2011 is estimated to be 401,890. It comprises two-thirds Malay and the rest other indigenous peoples, Chinese and expatriates. Malay is the official language but English is widely used. Though the official religion is Islam, other faiths are also practised.
Most of the country is covered with tropical rain forests, teeming with exotic flora and fauna species. Eco tourism has played an important role in efforts to preserve Brunei Darussalam’s lush surrounding.
The Ulu Tembulong National Park is the pride of Brunei Darussalam as it holds the prestigious Outward Bound Brunei Darussalam as well as the Kuala Belalong Field Study Centre, both very popular among local and foreign tourists alike. Other places of interest include the following :
- Kampong Ayer
- Jame’Asr Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque
- Royal Regalia Museum
- The Arts and Handicraft Centre
- Jerudong Park Playground
