Country Profile

While both 2015 and 2016 have held numerous important changes for Brunei Darussalam, the nation has long maintained its unique balance of tradition and modernity. Classified as a unitary Islamic monarchy, the Sultanate has maintained a stable form of government since its independence in 1984. Historically, the oil and gas industry has dominated the Bruneian economy and has allowed the Sultanate to accumulate its considerable wealth. However, the nation is making earnest efforts to diversify its economy in order to ensure future economic stability and sustainability. This chapter contains an interview with Le Luong Minh, Secretary-General, ASEAN.