Brunei: A Tourist-Friendly Country?

Brunei is a small, oil-rich sultanate on the island of Borneo. It is known for its rainforests, mosques, and lack of tourists. The country is ruled by the Sultan of Brunei, who is one of the richest people in the world. Brunei is a safe, conservative country with a low crime rate. The sale of alcohol is banned, and the country is known for its friendly, welcoming locals. Brunei has a unique culture and stunning natural sights, but some travellers may find it boring due to the lack of nightlife and things to do.

Brunei is one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia

The Bruneian government puts a lot of effort into keeping the country clean and litter-free. Visitors can stroll through the streets without seeing or smelling rubbish. Bandar Seri Begawan, in particular, is in immaculate condition, apart from the inevitable film of gunge at the edges of the Brunei River from Kampong Ayer.

The country's vast oil and gas reserves have made Brunei one of the richest countries in the world, with one of the highest GDPs. Citizens receive free education, healthcare and pensions, along with access to social housing and cheap loans. The country also has excellent medical facilities.

However, it is important to note that Brunei has a strict legal system, and there may be serious penalties for actions that may not be illegal in other countries. For example, there are severe penalties for drug offences, including, in some cases, the death penalty. Additionally, same-sex sexual activity is criminalised and can be punished by death, whipping, imprisonment or fines.

Brunei is one of the cleanest countries in Asia

Brunei's success in keeping its environment clean can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the country has a strong focus on environmental conservation, with approximately 80% of its land covered by virgin rainforests. These forests have remained untouched and preserved in their natural state for thousands of years. The country has avoided the extensive deforestation that has affected neighbouring regions, such as Malaysian and Indonesian Borneo.

Another factor contributing to Brunei's cleanliness is its small population. With a population of around 455,858 as of 2023, the country is one of the least densely populated in the world. This low population density means less pressure on the environment and less waste generation.

In addition, Brunei has a strong cultural emphasis on hygiene and cleanliness. The country's Islamic values promote cleanliness as an important aspect of daily life. The absence of a prominent party scene and the ban on alcohol also contribute to a more orderly and tidy environment.

Furthermore, Brunei has a stable political system with a constitutional absolute monarchy. The country's wealth, derived from its extensive petroleum and natural gas fields, has allowed the government to invest in infrastructure and public services, including waste management and sanitation.

Finally, Brunei has a strong sense of community and social responsibility. The people of Brunei are known for their hospitality and kindness towards visitors. This sense of community extends to taking care of their environment, with a shared understanding of the importance of keeping their country clean and litter-free.

Overall, Brunei's commitment to environmental conservation, low population density, cultural values, stable government, and sense of community contribute to making it one of the cleanest countries in Asia. The country serves as a model for sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Brunei has some of the best-preserved virgin rainforests in the world

Brunei is a small country on the island of Borneo, and while it may not be on many travellers' radars, it is worth visiting for its welcoming locals, safety, cleanliness, and, of course, its pristine virgin rainforests.

The virgin rainforests of Brunei are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. With an estimated 2,000 species of trees and 15,000 species of vascular plants, the country's rainforests support a vibrant ecosystem. A wide variety of wildlife can be found in these forests, including 500 species of marine fish and invertebrates, 622 bird species, 121 species of mammals, and 182 species of amphibians and reptiles. Some native species include the Nycticebus borneanus, Bronchocela cristatella, Bornean Sun Bear, and Pelobatrachus nasutus. The proboscis monkey, with its unusual appearance, is a highlight for many visitors.

Brunei's commitment to conservation is evident in its efforts to protect these precious ecosystems. More than 50% of the country is officially under some form of protection, and the government has taken an active role in reducing logging activities. Clear-cutting is prohibited, and timber exportation is not allowed. The Forestry Department strictly regulates wood harvest for domestic use, and enrichment planting initiatives aim to increase the forest's total timber output.

The virgin rainforests of Brunei offer a glimpse into a vibrant, diverse, and relatively untouched natural world. With its commitment to conservation and the richness of its ecosystems, Brunei is a nature lover's dream and a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore some of the world's best-preserved virgin rainforests.

Brunei is home to the world's largest floating village

Brunei is home to Kampong Ayer, the world's largest floating village. Located just off the Bandar Seri Begawan waterfront, the entire settlement is built on stilts on the Brunei River. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, the village earned the nickname 'Venice of the East' from the European explorers who first visited in 1521.

A Sprawling Village

Kampong Ayer is a sprawling village, with nearly 38 kilometres of wooden and concrete boardwalks connecting its 42 or so villages. It is home to an estimated 13,000 people, nearly half of the downtown city population. The village has all the amenities of a modern city, including mosques, schools, a post office, restaurants, police stations, and a fire department, all built on stilts above the water.

A Unique Lifestyle

The people of Kampong Ayer have maintained a unique way of life for centuries. While some residents spend most of their time on the land, others commute to work in the city centre by boat. The village has a mix of exclusive neighbourhoods and shanty towns, with flashy cars parked along the waterfront belonging to wealthier residents.

A Declining Population

Despite its rich history, Kampong Ayer's population is in decline, with more and more people moving to the landed portion of Brunei. Those who remain are committed to preserving the centuries-old customs and traditions of the former Bruneian Empire.

Brunei is a dry country

Alcohol can only be consumed in private residences or hotel rooms, and it is illegal to be intoxicated in public. Some hotels may allow guests to drink in designated areas, but many Bruneians are devoutly Muslim and may be offended by the sight of alcohol.

The sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products is also forbidden in Brunei, and smoking is prohibited in most public places. Recreational drugs are strictly prohibited, and possession can result in punishment by law.

Brunei's strict laws on alcohol and drugs may seem harsh to some, but they are simple to follow with a little common sense and discretion.

Frequently asked questions