Brunei

It may be one of the world’s smallest countries, but this Islamic sultanate has exorbitant wealth due to the success of Shell oil company. A range of attractions are onsite, including traditional Malay villages, beautiful mosques and pristine forests. Expect peaceful evenings, glorious architecture and limitless amenities.

• Opulent mosques: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is the crowning glory of Brunei. It presides over a manmade lagoon and boasts an enormous, golden dome. The other resident mosque is Jame’asr Hassanal Bolkiah, which was built more recently. Both mosques welcome non-Muslim visitors outside of prayer time.
• Staying in extravagant hotels: Brunei’s accommodation scene rivals Dubai’s, albeit on a smaller scale. The hotels here are luxurious and spare no expense, with spacious suites and every amenity imaginable. Even better, visitors will find that the supply outweighs the demand so discounts are often available to those who aren’t afraid to ask for them.
• Istana Nurul Iman: It comes as no surprise that Brunei’s royal palace, home to one of the wealthiest people in the world, is excessively ornate. It boasts thousands of rooms, cost hundreds of millions of dollars to build and is larger than the palace in Vatican City.
• Venice of the east: Kampung Ayer is the hub of Brunei’s water village territory. A total of 28 villages are home to more than 30,000 people in what is arguably Brunei’s most fascinating asset. Shops, schools, homes and restaurants are arranged on stilts and connected by interlinking wooden gangplanks with water taxis navigating the canals.
• First-rate museums: All of the oil revenue pouring into Brunei has paved the way for cultural programs and impressive museums. Foremost among these is the Brunei Museum with its unrivaled Islamic Gallery, a collection of jewelry, ceramics and precious metalwork.
• Upscale shopping: Brunei’s elite residents are discerning shoppers though tourists are a major supplement for the commercial scene. Shopping enthusiasts can head straight

Highlights

• Bandar Seri Begawan: Located in the vibrant brunei-muara district, this bustling capital city is home to the world-famous omar ali saifuddien mosque, one of the most magnificent mosques in asia, the royal regalia building and the brunei museum.
• Kampong Ayer: Just outside of the capital, this renowned water village, described as the venice of the east, is a must-visit place, accessible by boat. walk around this uber-equipped village featuring historic houses, clinics, schools and mosques.
• Tutong: A peaceful town that has several natural spots such as beautiful parks, the country’s largest lake, tasek merimbun, a small island and a beach. the big tamu (an open market) offers a variety of local foods and handicrafts.
• Ulu Temburong National Park: One of the most important attractions in temburong district, this large, unspoiled park offers canopy trails on wooden walkways and rich, fascinating wildlife.
• Beaches: Muara, serasa, kuala belait and lumut beach near tutong boast golden sand and crystal clear waters with plenty of water sports, perfect for a family day out.
• Bandar Seri Begawan: The city of Bandar Seri Begawan is a great place to use as a base while exploring Brunei. This vibrant city is famed for magnificent mosques such as Jame’ Asri Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and Omar Ali Saifuddien, while the interesting and informative Brunei Museum is the perfect place to learn all about this rich and diverse nation. Bandar Seri Begawan also offers some of the best shopping malls and markets in Brunei.

Regions

• Belait District: The country’s westernmost and largest region, Belait takes its name from the Belait people. The town of Kuala Belait makes a good base for visitors and offers plenty of excellent hotels located along Belait River as well as a pristine sandy beach.

  • Kuala Belait: The main town in the district, known for its oil and gas industry, and nearby Silver Jubilee Park.
  • Seria: Another town important to Brunei’s oil industry, featuring the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre.
  • Labi: Known for its natural attractions, including the Labi Hills Forest Reserve and the waterfalls of Wasai Kadir and Wasai Wong Kadir.

• Brunei Muara District: Home to the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan, this is the smallest of Brunei’s districts. Visitors to the capital will find plenty of attractions to explore, such as Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Brunei Museum, while this is also one of the best places in Brunei for shopping and dining.

  • Bandar Seri Begawan: The capital city, known for its magnificent mosques such as Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the Royal Regalia Museum, and the water village of Kampong Ayer.
  • Jerudong: Home to the Jerudong Park Playground, a large amusement park, and the Jerudong Park Medical Centre.
  • Pantai Muara: The location of Muara Port, the country’s primary deep-water port, and Muara Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists.

• Temburong District: Brunei’s eastern district is largely covered with pristine rainforest. Places such as Batu Apoi Forest Reserve and Ulu Temburong National Park are excellent for jungle trekking and are teeming with a diverse range of flora and fauna.

  • Bangar: The district capital, serving as the gateway to the Ulu Temburong National Park.
  • Ulu Temburong National Park: A pristine rainforest known for its diverse flora and fauna, canopy walkways, and ecotourism activities.
  • Batang Duri: A village offering river cruises and traditional cultural experiences.
  • Peradayan Forest Reserve: A serene and lush forest reserve in Brunei, perfect for nature walks, bird watching, and exploring diverse flora and fauna.

• Tutong District: Bordered by the South China Sea to the north, this district features virgin forest and small plantations. The large lake of Tasek Merimbun is a popular spot for visitors to swim in and hike around.

  • Pekan Tutong: The district capital, offering local markets and cultural experiences.
  • Tasek Merimbun: Brunei’s largest natural lake, known for its rich biodiversity and serene environment.
  • Lamunin: A rural area known for its traditional longhouses and cultural sites.

Top Cities

• Bandar Seri Begawan: an interesting collection of Islamic religious and commercial architecture gives Brunei’s capital city a look that is unique in Southeast Asia
• Bangar: a quiet and relatively undeveloped town that provides access to the natural attractions of Temburong
• Kuala Belait: Brunei’s second-biggest city and a river port amid a major oil production area
• Muara: home to Brunei’s sole deepwater port
• Seria: nicknamed Shelltown, Seria is Brunei’s oil capital and the scene of the area’s first oil discoveries
• Tutong Town: known locally as Pekan Tutong, this is the capital of Tutong district

Islands & Beaches

• Jong Batu: a small rocky outcrop that sits in the Brunei River and forms the basis of a local legend
• Lumut Beach: only a few miles from Seria, this is a favorite beach for people in the Western district of Belait
• Meragang Beach: also known as Crocodile Beach, this is one of the most popular beaches in Brunei
• Muara Beach: roughly one mile of pristine white sand stretching along the South China Sea at Pekan Muara
• Panaga Beach: a hugely popular stretch of sand that often features festivals and is home to sailing clubs
• Pantai Seri Kenangan Beach: close to Tutong Town, this beach sits in a particularly pretty setting
• Serasa Beach: only 10 minutes from Muara, this beach offers a good selection of water sports
• Tanjong Pelumpong: this spit-turned-island is covered with attractive pine forests and has a pretty beach on its northern coast

National Parks

• Bukit Shahbandar Forestry Recreational Park: a popular 70-acre recreation area with plenty of room for walking, jogging and cycling
• Gunung Mulu National Park: actually located in Malaysia, this huge and important UNESCO World Heritage site contains stunning karts and caves, borders southern Brunei
• Lambir Hill National Park: an important conservation area featuring trails that lead past many beautiful waterfalls
• Niah Caves National Park: located in Malaysian Sarawak, these incredible caves can easily be reached from Brunei
• Sungai Liang Forestry Recreation Park: one of Brunei’s hidden gems, the park was originally an arboretum and rewards gentle strollers with the opportunity to learn about the many plant species
• Tasek Lama Recreational Park: Brunei’s oldest nature reserve features a lake and spectacular waterfalls
• Ulu Temburong National Park: covers 10 percent of Brunei and features a suspended walkway that stretches through the rainforest canopy

Alternative Destinations

• Brunei Bay: almost 20 miles across, the bay is a broad expanse of unspoiled wilderness featuring rocky coasts, beaches, islands and reefs
• Jerudong Park: once the biggest, most expensive theme park in Southeast Asia, the park has recently recovered from years of decline
• Kampung Ayer: called Venice of the East, this historic water village is considered a must-see attraction
• Spratly Islands: Brunei lays economic claim to a small southern region of this collection of hundreds of islands, islets, reefs, atolls and cays located in the South China Sea
• Taman Peranginan Tasek Park: a popular park north of Bandar, many visitors relax on the grounds, enjoy a variety of outdoor exercises or visit the beautiful waterfalls
• Yayasan Complex: the most celebrated shopping development in Brunei

The best time to visit Brunei is during the dry season from February to April, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

If you don’t mind occasional rain and prefer fewer tourists, the wet seasons from November to January and May to July can also be enjoyable, particularly if you plan to attend local festivals and cultural events. Brunei is very hot and humid most of the year, although heavy monsoon rains occur between November and December. The average temperature is about 28°C.

• Peak season: the main peak months are March and April, and it is a good idea to book flights in advance if travelling during this time as there is high demand. Flight prices are also significantly higher during these two months. It is worth shopping around for special deals and discounts as the price can vary significantly between Royal Brunei Airlines and other airlines which serve the airport such as Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines and Thai Airways International.

• Off season: flights are rarely fully booked during the off season. The cheapest months to fly are usually November and December, when few people visit due to heavy monsoon rains.

• Dry Season: (February to April) - The dry season is considered the best time to visit Brunei. During these months, rainfall is relatively low, and the weather is slightly cooler and less humid. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the natural beauty of the country.

• First Wet Season: (November to January) - This period experiences heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While the wet weather can lead to lush landscapes and cooler temperatures, it may also cause disruptions in outdoor plans. However, this can be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer tourists and don’t mind the rain.

• Second Wet Season: (May to July) - This season also brings significant rainfall. While not as intense as the first wet season, it can still affect travel plans. Indoor attractions, such as museums and mosques, can be explored during this time.

Cultural Experiences

• Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: One of Brunei’s most iconic landmarks, known for its stunning architecture, marble minarets, and golden domes.
• Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque: The largest mosque in Brunei, featuring 29 golden domes and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Royal Regalia Museum: Showcases Brunei’s royal heritage with an extensive collection of royal artifacts, regalia, and gifts presented to the Sultan.
• Kampong Ayer: Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” this water village consists of traditional stilt houses built along the Brunei River.
• Malay Technology Museum: Offers insights into Brunei’s traditional industries and crafts, with exhibits on boat-making, metalworking, and more.

Natural Experiences

• Ulu Temburong National Park: Offers lush rainforests, canopy walkways, and opportunities for eco-adventures and wildlife spotting.
• Tasek Merimbun: Brunei’s largest natural lake, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
• Bukit Shahbandar Forest Recreation Park: Popular for hiking and picnicking, offering trails through tropical forest and scenic viewpoints.
• Berakas Forest Reserve: Provides a tranquil setting for nature walks and birdwatching, with trails leading through coastal forest.
• Luagan Lalak Recreation Park: Known for its picturesque freshwater swamp, which transforms into a lake during the rainy season.

Urban Experiences

• Bandar Seri Begawan: The capital city, offering a blend of modern and traditional architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.
• Tamu Kianggeh Market: A lively local market offering fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and local delicacies.
• The Empire Brunei: A luxury hotel and resort known for its opulent architecture, extensive facilities, and beachfront location.
• Gadong Night Market: Offers a wide variety of local street food, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
• Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex: A major shopping and entertainment center in the capital, ideal for shopping and dining.

Unique Experiences

• Istana Nurul Iman: The official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, renowned as the world’s largest residential palace. It opens to the public during Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
• Oil & Gas Discovery Centre: An interactive science and technology museum in Seria, showcasing the history and importance of Brunei’s oil and gas industry.
• Jerudong Park: One of the largest amusement parks in Southeast Asia, offering a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.
• Proboscis Monkey River Safari: A guided boat tour along the Brunei River to spot the unique and endangered proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat.
• Mangrove Boat Tour: Explore Brunei’s mangrove forests and observe the rich biodiversity, including various bird species and other wildlife.

Visas

Depending on the traveler’s country of origin, they may be able to enter without a visa. Nationals from the United Kingdom are permitted to stay for 30 days, nationals from Canada up to 14 days, nationals from the USA up to 90 days and nationals from Australia up to 30 days visa-free. Nationals of other countries and those wishing to stay longer are advised to visit their local Brunei embassy or consulate.

• US/Can: on arrival (90/14 days)
• EU/UK: on arrival (14/30 days)
• Aus/NZ: on arrival (14/30 days)

By Plane

BSB is well served by international routes and you will find that flying through Brunei on Royal Brunei Airlines might be the cheapest ticket around into Southeast Asia. The airport is located about 20 minutes drive from the center of BSB. From the airport, you can take bus 11 and 26 from the airport to the town center passing by the youth center.

• Brunei International Airport: (BWN) - Situated approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city of Brunei. Brunei International Airport offers modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, car rental services, and free Wi-Fi. It serves as the main gateway for international travelers. The airport is the hub for Royal Brunei Airlines, the national carrier, which operates flights to various international destinations. Other airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and AirAsia, also operate flights to and from Brunei.

By Bus

BSB’s main bus station is located at the bottom of a multi-storey carpark in the center of town, about 1 km from the youth center. From the bus station, head away from the water and toward the Lapan Diraja. You can reach Brunei by bus from Sarawak via Kuala Belait and Seria. From the border at Sungei Tujuh, buses to Kuala Belait reach in 30 minutes (B$5.50) and from there you need to buy another ticket to Seria (B$1). From Seria, there are hourly buses until late afternoon to BSB (B$6, 2 hours). You can also take buses from Limbang, Malaysia to Kuala Belait every morning.

By Ferry

The boat-road Sabah to Sarawak crossing goes through Brunei. If coming from Kota Kinabalu, you need to take a morning ferry to Labuan and then switch for the 90 minute ride to Brunei. The ferry lets off at Muara’s ferry terminal and you can take express bus #38 to town. You might need to walk to the main gate to get this bus.

From Asia

Brunei is well-connected to several major cities in Asia through direct flights.

• Singapore: Royal Brunei Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and low-cost carriers like Scoot and AirAsia offer direct flights from Singapore to Brunei.
• Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia provide direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Brunei.
• Hong Kong: Royal Brunei Airlines operates direct flights from Hong Kong to Brunei.
• Bangkok: Royal Brunei Airlines offers direct flights from Bangkok to Brunei.
• Manila: Philippine Airlines and Royal Brunei Airlines have direct flights from Manila to Brunei.
• Jakarta: Garuda Indonesia and Royal Brunei Airlines operate direct flights from Jakarta to Brunei.

From Australia

Brunei can be reached from Australia with a stopover, typically in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.

• Sydney, Melbourne, Perth: Travelers can fly with Singapore Airlines or Malaysia Airlines to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur and then connect with a flight to Brunei.

From Europe

Traveling to Brunei from Europe usually involves one or more stopovers in major Asian hubs.

• London: Royal Brunei Airlines operates flights from London to Brunei with a stopover in Dubai. Alternatively, travelers can fly with major airlines like Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Emirates, connecting via Singapore, Doha, or Dubai.
• Other European Cities: Travelers from cities such as Paris, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam can fly with major carriers like Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Emirates, with stopovers in their respective hubs.

From North America

There are no direct flights from North America to Brunei, but travelers can reach Brunei with connections through major Asian hubs.

• Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver: Travelers can fly with major airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, or Japan Airlines, connecting via Singapore, Hong Kong, or Tokyo, and then onward to Brunei.

Navigating Brunei is relatively straightforward, thanks to its well-maintained infrastructure and compact size.

Train

Brunei does not have a train network. Travelers rely on other forms of transportation such as buses, cars, and boats to get around.

Bus

Brunei has a limited but functional public bus system mainly serving the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, and its surrounding areas.

The main bus terminal is located at Jalan Cator in Bandar Seri Begawan. Buses run on several routes, connecting key points in the city and nearby districts. Bus fares are affordable, typically costing around BND 1 per trip.

Buses generally operate from early morning until around 6 PM, with reduced services on weekends and public holidays.

Car

Renting a car is a popular and convenient way to explore Brunei, especially for visiting more remote areas. Several international and local car rental agencies operate in Brunei, including Avis, Hertz, and Budget. Rental services are available at Brunei International Airport and in major towns.

Roads in Brunei are well-maintained, and traffic is generally light. Drive on the left side of the road. Be aware of local driving laws and regulations.

Ferries

Ferries are an essential mode of transport for reaching some of Brunei’s water villages and neighboring regions.

Regular ferry services connect Brunei with the Limbang district in Malaysia. Ferries depart from the Serasa Ferry Terminal.

Brunei’s extensive waterways make boats a practical and scenic mode of transportation. Water Taxis are commonly used in Kampong Ayer and for traveling along the Brunei River.

Air

While Brunei is a small country, air travel is not typically used for domestic transport due to the short distances involved. However, Brunei International Airport serves as the main hub for international flights.

Ride Share

Ride-sharing services are available and offer a convenient option for getting around, especially for those who prefer not to drive.

Dart is the only ride-hailing service operating in Brunei, Dart provides an easy and reliable way to book rides via their mobile app. It functions similarly to other popular ride-hailing services like Uber and Grab.

Taxis

Taxis are available but are not as commonly used as in other countries. Taxis can be found at the airport, major hotels, and shopping centers. However, they are less common on the streets, and it’s often necessary to book in advance.

Taxi fares in Brunei are relatively high compared to buses and ride-sharing services. Always ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.

Bicycles

Cycling is an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to explore Brunei, particularly in urban areas and parks. Bicycles can be rented from various locations in Bandar Seri Begawan and recreational areas like Tasek Lama Recreational Park.

Where is Brunei?

Brunei is a small, wealthy nation located on the northern coast of the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by the South China Sea to the north and completely surrounded by the Malaysian state of Sarawak to the south, east, and west. The country is divided into two separate parts by the Malaysian district of Limbang. The larger western part includes the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, while the eastern part, known as the Temburong District, is less developed and primarily covered by rainforest.

Geography

Brunei’s geography is characterized by a flat coastal plain rising to mountainous regions in the east. The country is endowed with vast tracts of unspoiled rainforest, which cover about 70% of its land area. Key geographical features include the Brunei River, which flows through the capital, and the Belait River in the west. The country is rich in biodiversity, with numerous protected areas and national parks such as Ulu Temburong National Park, which showcases Brunei’s commitment to conservation. The coastal areas are marked by mangrove swamps and sandy beaches, while the interior regions feature rolling hills and dense tropical forests.

Brunei is one of the healthiest countries in Asia, having clean cities, world class hospitals, and competent medical staff. The water is even said to be safe to drink in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. However, caution is advised when eating out at markets and the risk of infection from mosquito bites is quite high.

Serious health threats include dengue fever, typhoid, and polio. All water may be contaminated, so drink bottled water. Medical service is excellent, although supplies occasionally run low and complex cases are often evacuated to Singapore.

As far as Southeast Asia goes, Brunei ranks alongside Singapore for safety though not being as developed it is advisable for visitors not to stray too far off the beaten track without a guide. Crime is little heard of, as are scams, and visitors are free to roam every corner of the country.

Scams & Petty Crime

Brunei has a very low crime rate, but travelers should still exercise basic precautions to avoid any inconvenience.

• Pickpocketing and Theft: Although rare, it can occur in crowded areas such as markets and tourist spots. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items.
• ATM Safety: Use ATMs located in well-lit and secure places, such as banks and shopping malls. Be cautious of your surroundings when withdrawing cash.

Political Unrest

Brunei is known for its political stability and is considered one of the safest countries in the region.

• Public Gatherings: Political protests and demonstrations are rare. However, it’s always wise to avoid any large gatherings or public demonstrations if they do occur.
• Government Regulations: Respect local laws and regulations. The Sultanate has strict laws, and penalties for breaking them can be severe.

Diseases

Brunei has a high standard of healthcare, but travelers should still take certain precautions to stay healthy.

• Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus. Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are also recommended.
• Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and sleep under mosquito nets if necessary to prevent diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, although the risk is relatively low.
• Food and Water Safety: Stick to bottled or boiled water, and ensure that food is properly cooked to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Road Conditions

Brunei has well-maintained roads, but there are some things to keep in mind for safe travel.

• Driving: Bruneians drive on the left side of the road. Ensure you have a valid international driving permit if you plan to rent a car.
• Road Safety: Roads are generally in good condition, but be cautious of sudden stops by other drivers, pedestrians, and animals. Speed limits are strictly enforced.
• Public Transport: Buses and taxis are available, but public transport options are limited compared to other countries. Car rentals are a convenient option for getting around.

Nature’s Fury

Brunei is relatively free from natural disasters, but travelers should still be aware of potential environmental risks.

• Flooding: Heavy rainfall can cause flooding, particularly during the wet season (November to January and May to July). Stay updated on weather conditions and avoid flood-prone areas during heavy rains.
• Heat and Humidity: The tropical climate can be hot and humid. Stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and use sunscreen to protect against sunburn.

Sexual Harassment

Brunei is a conservative society, and respectful behavior is expected from both locals and visitors.

• Public Conduct: Avoid public displays of affection, as they may be frowned upon. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Reporting Harassment: If you experience harassment, contact local authorities immediately. Brunei has strict laws against harassment, and the police are generally helpful to tourists.

Food

For the most part, you can easily get Malay food in Brunei as well as a sprinkling of Indian and Chinese food. Western food is freely available in the town areas and you won’t have too much trouble finding a KFC or Pizza Hut in downtown BSB. There are no real specialties in Brunei and the food is not quite as nice as Malaysia but still quite ok.

History

Brunei is a relatively new country, having achieved its independence from Britain in 1983. Formerly Brunei was very powerful and its borders stretched across much of the whole of Borneo, and even some southern parts of the Philippines, but the sultanate’s power declined and subsequently the country was split into two parts.

In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate, gaining its independence from British rule less than 100 years later in 1984. Although Brunei is small, it is a very wealthy nation thanks to its oil and gas deposits. Visitors will find a country steeped in Muslim culture and natural beauty.

• 40,000 years ago: Brunei has a long history of settlement, with the first evidence of human life in Borneo dating back 40,000 years ago. Being an island, Borneo has received settlers from all over Southeast Asia and this makes the country’s cultural make-up very diverse.

• 6th century: Being an island nation, Brunei’s history is steeped in trade. As early as the 6th century, Brunei emerged as a major trading nation, trading sought-after spices and woods with countries such as India and China.

• 15th century-17th century: In 1405 Brunei’s ruler, Sultan Muhammad, introduced Islam to the country. He is the founding member of the Sultanate dynasty that rules today. This period marked Brunei’s strongest and most powerful time, when the ruling Sultan for a short period captured Manila and controlled the whole island of Borneo.

• 1888-1984: During this period Brunei was a British protectorate, which evolved primarily from the British trading companies that took over control of Sabah in the early 19th century. The Sultanate became independent from the British in 1984.

• 1984-present: Brunei has been ruled by a Sultan since its independence from Britain and this title has been passed down in the same family since the 15th century. The current Sultan is His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and he is the 29th ruler of Brunei.