Country Profile

Brunei Darussalam has become an important player in regional politics, as well as a major international energy provider and a significant force in the world of global finance, via its sovereign wealth fund. Its people live in a nation that has sought to preserve traditional culture and appreciation of the environment, which is among the most bio-diverse on the planet. The move towards sharia law may attract some criticism in the months ahead and the Sultanate’s handling of legal issues will be an important test. Ahead of the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015, the country’s approach to trade will also stand it in good stead as the region’s nations move towards increased economic integration.

This chapter contains interviews with His Majesty Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam; HRH Al-Muhtadee Billah, Crown Prince of Brunei Darussalam; and HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and a viewpoint from Datin Seri Paduka Hayati Salleh, Attorney General.