Brunei in Brief
Brunei in Brief
Journey to Brunei Darussalam
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM - lying of the island of Borneo is one of the oldest kingdoms yet one of the youngest independent nations of the region. A small country with a total land area of just 5,765 sq km with a coastline that runs 161 km along the South China Sea, its tiny size has not impeded its social and economic progress. The recent years has seen Brunei emerging as an audible voice and competitive player in world affairs with active participation in international , regional and sub-regional core groups such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), ASEAN, BIMP-EAGA, WHO and other high-powered organisations. At the same time, keen to sharpen its competitive edge, the country has made leaps and bounds in the area of technology and infrastructure.
But while the nation keeps pace the modernisation, tranquility still resides in its heart and for that, Brunei has been called to the Abode of Peace, an apt description of the serene haven that the country really is. Filled with gentle people and a culture of decorum and hospitality, Brunei is a true reflection of the Malay way of life. Indeed, the majority of the population (about 74%) is made up of the central role in the life of every Muslim in Brunei Darussalam. The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of the Sultanate is the head of the faith and rule the country according to the established values and traditions of Islam.
Additional Information
Currency & Credits Cards:
The exchange rate of one US Dollar to Brunei Dollar varies between B$1.75 to B$1.85. Internationally recognized currencies, credit cards, travelers cheques are accepted in banks and hotels for exchange.
Time Zone: Brunei Darussalam time is GMT Plus 8 hours.
Electricity: The available power supply in Brunei Darussalam in 220 volts with 3 pin plug. Please carry your adapters should you need to plug in appliances.
Telephone & Internet: Overseas calls can be made using the phone booth at the hotel or telephone in the hotel. Internet access through prepaid card and Internet cafe with wireless networking widely available in Brunei Darussalam.
| Brunei Government Official Website http://brunei.gov.bn | Brunei Tourism Department http://tourismbrunei.com | Royal Brunei Airlines http://bruneiair.com | Brunei Darussalam Daily Dairy http://bruneidairy.inf |
People and Culture
Although Malay is the official language, English is widely spoken especially in business, and the English language is a compulsory subject in all schools.
With such a varying ethnic composition, it no surprise that a great diversity of religions is prevalent throughout Brunei Darussalam. Although the official religion is Islam, freedom of worship is practiced.
LOCAL CUSTOMS
When visiting Brunei Darussalam, the visitor should observe local customs and practices. Some common courtesies and customs are as follows:
Although handshakes generally suffice for men and women, some Muslim ladies may acknowledge an introduction with gentlemen with a nod of her head and smile. A handshake is only to be reciprocated if the lady offers her hand first. The traditional greeting of "salam" resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friends's outstretched hands, and then brings his hands to his chest to mean, "I greet you from my heart". The visitor should reciprocate the "salam".
Shoes must be removed when entering a Bruneian home. It is also customary to do so upon entering a mosque.
The right hand is always used when eating with one's hand or when giving and receiving objects. The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with the four fingers, folded under is preferred usage.
