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Brunei
absolute monarchy or sultanate
The Sultanate of Brunei's influence peaked between the 15th and 17th centuries, when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines. Internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy subsequently brought on a period of decline. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate; independence was achieved in 1984.
Profile
CapitalBandar Seri Begawan
Population492K
GDP$36.6B
Area5,765 km²
LanguageMalay (Bahasa Melayu) (official), English, Chinese dialects
CurrencyBruneian dollars (BND) per US dollar -
Leadership
Head of State
Hassanal Bolkiah I of Brunei
At a Glance
Population
492K
GDP (PPP)
$37B
