The Sultanate of Brunei's heyday occurred between the 15th and 17th centuries, when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines. Brunei subsequently entered a period of decline brought on by internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate; independence was achieved in 1984. Brunei benefits from extensive petroleum and natural gas fields, the source of one of the highest per capita GDPs in the less developed countries. The same family has ruled Brunei for over six centuries.
Location
Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
Area Comparative
Slightly smaller than Delaware
Maritime Claims
Exclusive economic zone: 200 NM or to median line
Territorial sea: 12 NM
Climate
Tropical; hot, humid, rainy
Natural Hazards
Typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are very rare
Environment Current Issues
Seasonal smoke/haze resulting from forest fires in Indonesia
Environment International Agreements
Party to: Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Geography Note
Close to vital sea lanes through South China Sea linking Indian and Pacific Oceans; two parts physically separated by Malaysia; almost an enclave of Malaysia
