Brunei - hostels Reservations and Information about Brunai, guesthouse Booking and guesthouse in Bandar Seri Begawan, Jerudong and Kuala Belait.

Southeast Asian Leaders Agree to Form Free-Trade Zone by 2015

Association of Southeast Asian Nations leaders agree at summit in Philippines to establish free-trade zone by 2015; pledge to intensify their fight against terrorism, protect region's migrant workers and improve their campaign against HIV/AIDS; also break from tradition of consensus and noninterference and agree to new charter with broad enforcement powers; group fails to find common ground on how to deal with Myanmar, which has come under fire for its poor human rights record

The Muslim Stereotype

I find the common American stereotypes of Islam profoundly warped.

Indonesian President Is Sworn In, Promising a Cleaner Government

Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono promised a new era of cleaner government and renewed growth for Indonesia.

THREATS AND RESPONSES; President Seems to Gain an Asian Ally

Pres Bush and leader of Brunei, Sultan Sir Bolkiah Hassanal, meet at White House; they agree to expand intelligence-sharing as part of Washington's campaign against terrorism; photo

10 Asian Nations Join With U.S. in Pledge to Fight Terrorism

Ten Southeast Asian nations joined the United States on Thursday in pledging to "prevent, disrupt and combat" global terrorism.

Powell Treading a Thin Line in Rallying Antiterror Support

Secretary of State Colin L. Powell arrived in Brunei on Tuesday night for meetings with fellow foreign ministers aimed at solidifying the campaign against global terrorism.

A Plant Gets Picky

This week's column includes items on the tropical pitcher plant, great white sharks and rules for designating moons.

Brunei: From Oil Rich to Garage Sales

For years, Brunei's Prince Jefri Bolkiah shoveled away at the tiny sultanate's cash reserves. Now the nation is waking up from its swoon of abundance and wondering how it will support itself

Indonesian Chief Cleared in 2 Cases, but Future Seems Dim

Indonesia's attorney general clears Pres Abdurrahman Wahid of involvement in two corruption cases that led to his censure and calls for his ouster by Parliament, but Wahid's options for political survival seem to be narrowing as lawmakers prepare for impeachment vote on May 30; campaign against Wahid has grown from charges of malfeasasnce to referendum on his leadership; photo

Talk of 'Holy War' From Jakarta Leader's Home Base

Soft-spoken and nattily dressed, Abdul Halim does not look as if he is about to set off on a holy war. But when he talks of Indonesia's embattled president, Abdurrahman Wahid, his voice takes on a sudden fervor. ''He is the nation's educator,'' said Mr. Halim, who sells used cars and dabbles in politics in this industrial city in East Java. ''I look up to him because he speaks the truth.''

How to Say No To a Sultan; Brunei and Its Leader Try Economic Discipline

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiash of Brunei, whose lavish spending helped push country into recession, now acts as economic disciplinarian, trying to less its dependence on oil production and into global economy; Brunei has been vowing to diversify its economy since mid-1980's, but reductions in dominance of oil have been achieved largely by raising government outlays; surging oil prices have taken some urgency out of reform drive; photos

Hints of Graft by Indonesian President

Protests against Indonesia's Pres Abdurrahman Wahid erupt into violence in capital of Jakarta as investigative committee submits report to Parliament suggesting he acted improperly in two multimillion-dollar corruption scandals; findings of six-month inquiry suggest Wahid may have been involved in embezzlement of $3.7 million from government agency and that he improperly accepted $2 million from Sultan of Brunei; photo

As in Manila, So in Jakarta? Upset of Leader Is Protests' Aim

Thousands of chanting protesters denounce Indonesia's president, Abdurrahman Wahid, in what has become daily ritual in Jakarta and other major cities; Wahid is embroiled in corruption inquiry, and protests are expected to grow; special parliamentary committee is expected to announce results of its investigation into charges that Wahid's personal masseur embezzled $3.7 million from state agency, and that Wahid failed to report secret $2 million gift from sultan of Brunei; Wahid took office with ...

GOLF: ROUNDUP; Wayne Smith Leads By One in Thailand

Golf Roundup; Wayne Smith takes lead after first round of Johnnie Walker Classic in Bangkok; Pres Clinton shows up at 11:30PM to play at Royal Brunei Golf and Country, after long day of summit meetings; he and Singapore Prime Min Goh Chok Tong play nine holes until 2AM, on lighted course in lush rain forest, despite flashes of lightning

REPORTERS' NOTEBOOK; An Oil Barony Knows How to Entertain Important Visitors

Reporters' Notebook vignettes from Pres Clinton's visit to oil-rich Brunei; photo of Pres Clinton and his daughter, Chelsea, being greeted by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and his two wives

The country offers a wide variety of attractive places to be visited and experienced. The rainforest and National Parks are rich in flora and fauna. Its most magnificent mosques, water village (traditional and historic houses on stilts), rich culture and Jerudong Theme Park are among the uniqueness of Brunei Darussalam.
Brunei Darussalam is divided into four districts namely Brunei/Muara, Tutong, Belait and Temburong. Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital of Brunei Darussalam with an area of about 16 sq. km. And a population of about 46 thousands including Kampong Ayer (Water Village). It is located in the Brunei/Muara District, and is the Centre of government and business activities. Other towns are Muara, about 41 km to the north east of Bandar Seri Begawan where the chief port is located, Seria which is the seat of oil and gas industry, and Kuala Belait, Pekan Tutong and Bangar which are the administrative centres of Belait, Tutong and Temburong Districts respectively.

WHEN TO GO:
National Day Celebration
The nation celebrates this joyous occasion on the 23rd of February and the people usually prepare themselves two months beforehand. Schoolchildren, private sector representatives and civil servants work hand-in-hand rehearsing their part in flash card displays and other colourful crowd formations. In addition mass prayers and reading of Surah Yaasin are held at mosques throughout the country.

Fasting Month (Ramadhan)
Ramadhan is a holy month for all Muslims. This marks the beginning of the period of fasting abstinence from food, drink and other material comforts from dawn to dusk. During this month, religious activities are held at mosques and suraus throughout the country

Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Hari Raya is a time for celebration after the end of the fasting month of Ramadhan. In the early part of the first day, prayers are held at every mosque in the country. Families get together to seek forgiveness from the elders and loved ones. You will see Bruneians decked-out in their traditional garb visiting relatives and friends.
Special festive dishes are made especially for Hari Raya including satay (beef, chicken or mutton kebabs), ketupat or lontong (rice cakes in coconut or banana leaves), rendang (spicy marinated beef) and other tantalizing cuisines. In these auspicious occassion Istana Nurul Iman was open to the public as well as to visitors for 3 days. This provides the nation and other visitors the opportunity to meet His Majesty and other members of the Royal Family, in order to wish them a Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day
31st of May marks the commemoration of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces formation day. The occassion is celebrated with military parades, artillery displays, parachuting and exhibitions.

Hari Raya Aidiladha
This is also known as Hari Raya Korban. Sacrifices of goats and cows are practiced to commemorate the Islamic historical event of Prophet Ibrahim S.A.W. The meat is then distributed among relatives, friends and the less fortunates.

His Majesty the Sultan's Birthday
This is one of the most important events in the national calendar with activities and festivities taking place nationwide. Celebrated on 15th July, this event begins with mass prayer throughout the country. On this occassion, His Majesty the Sultan delivers a 'titah' or royal address followed by investiture ceremony held at the Istana Nurul Iman. The event is also marked with gatherings at the four districts where His Majesty meets and gets together with his subjects.

Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad
In Brunei Darussalam, this occasion is known as the Mauludin Nabi S.A.W. Muslims throughout the country honour this event. Readings from the Holy Koran - the Muslim Holy Book, and an address on Islam from officials of the Ministry of Religious Affairs marks the beginning of this auspicious occasion. His Majesty the Sultan also gives a royal address and with other members of the Royal family, leads a procession on foot through the main streets of Bandar Seri Begawan. Religious functions, lectures and other activities are also held to celebrate this important occasion nationwide.

Chinese New Year
Celebrated by the Chinese community, this festival lasts for two weeks. It begins with a reunion dinner on the eve of the Lunar New Year to encourage closer rapport between family members. For the next two week, families visit one another bringing with them oranges to symbolize longevity and good fortune. Traditional cookies and food are aplenty during this festivity. Unmarried young people and children will receive 'angpow' or little red packets with money inside, a symbolic gesture of good luck, wealth and health.

Christmas Day
Throughout the world, 25th of December marks Christmas day, a significant day for all Christians. Christmas is nevertheless a joyous and colourful celebration enjoyed by Christians throughout the country.

Teachers' Day
Teachers' Day is celebrated on every 23rd September in recognition of the good deeds of the teachers to the community, religion and the country. It is celebrated in commemoration of the birthday of the late Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Saadul Khairi Waddien, the 28th Sultan of Brunei for his contribution in the field of education including religious education. On this occassion, three awards are given away namely, Meritorious Teacher's Award, Outstanding Teacher's Award and "Guru Tua" Award.

Public Service Day
The date 29th September is observed as the Public Service Day with the objective to uphold the aspiration of the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam towards creating an efficient, clean, sincere and honest public service. The Public Service Day commemorates the promulgation of the first written Constitution in Brunei Darussalam. The Public Service Day is celebrated with the presentation of the meritorious service award to Ministries and Government Departments.

Climate
Brunei Darussalam has an equatorial climate characterized by a uniform high temperature, high humidity and heavy rainfall. Temperatures range from 23 - 32 Degree Celsius, while rainfall varies from 2,500 mm annually on the coast to 7,500 mm in the interior. There is no distinct wet season.

BRUNEI DAR EL SALAM	USEFUL FIGURES, DATA and TABLES for BRUNEI
Brunei Sunset Brunei	LATEST NEWS LATEST NEWS Southeast Asian Leaders Agree to Form Free-Trade Zone by 2015 Association of Southeast Asian Nations leaders agree at summit in Philippines to establish free-trade zone by 2015; pledge to intensify their fight against terrorism, protect region's migrant workers and improve their campaign against HIV/AIDS; also break from tradition of consensus and noninterference and agree to new charter with broad enforcement powers; group fails to find common ground on how to deal with Myanmar, which has come under fire for its poor human rights record The Muslim Stereotype I find the common American stereotypes of Islam profoundly warped. Indonesian President Is Sworn In, Promising a Cleaner Government Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono promised a new era of cleaner government and renewed growth for Indonesia. THREATS AND RESPONSES; President Seems to Gain an Asian Ally Pres Bush and leader of Brunei, Sultan Sir Bolkiah Hassanal, meet at White House; they agree to expand intelligence-sharing as part of Washington's campaign against terrorism; photo 10 Asian Nations Join With U.S. in Pledge to Fight Terrorism Ten Southeast Asian nations joined the United States on Thursday in pledging to "prevent, disrupt and combat" global terrorism. Powell Treading a Thin Line in Rallying Antiterror Support Secretary of State Colin L. Powell arrived in Brunei on Tuesday night for meetings with fellow foreign ministers aimed at solidifying the campaign against global terrorism. A Plant Gets Picky This week's column includes items on the tropical pitcher plant, great white sharks and rules for designating moons. Brunei: From Oil Rich to Garage Sales For years, Brunei's Prince Jefri Bolkiah shoveled away at the tiny sultanate's cash reserves. Now the nation is waking up from its swoon of abundance and wondering how it will support itself Indonesian Chief Cleared in 2 Cases, but Future Seems Dim Indonesia's attorney general clears Pres Abdurrahman Wahid of involvement in two corruption cases that led to his censure and calls for his ouster by Parliament, but Wahid's options for political survival seem to be narrowing as lawmakers prepare for impeachment vote on May 30; campaign against Wahid has grown from charges of malfeasasnce to referendum on his leadership; photo Talk of 'Holy War' From Jakarta Leader's Home Base Soft-spoken and nattily dressed, Abdul Halim does not look as if he is about to set off on a holy war. But when he talks of Indonesia's embattled president, Abdurrahman Wahid, his voice takes on a sudden fervor. ''He is the nation's educator,'' said Mr. Halim, who sells used cars and dabbles in politics in this industrial city in East Java. ''I look up to him because he speaks the truth.'' How to Say No To a Sultan; Brunei and Its Leader Try Economic Discipline Sultan Hassanal Bolkiash of Brunei, whose lavish spending helped push country into recession, now acts as economic disciplinarian, trying to less its dependence on oil production and into global economy; Brunei has been vowing to diversify its economy since mid-1980's, but reductions in dominance of oil have been achieved largely by raising government outlays; surging oil prices have taken some urgency out of reform drive; photos Hints of Graft by Indonesian President Protests against Indonesia's Pres Abdurrahman Wahid erupt into violence in capital of Jakarta as investigative committee submits report to Parliament suggesting he acted improperly in two multimillion-dollar corruption scandals; findings of six-month inquiry suggest Wahid may have been involved in embezzlement of $3.7 million from government agency and that he improperly accepted $2 million from Sultan of Brunei; photo As in Manila, So in Jakarta? Upset of Leader Is Protests' Aim Thousands of chanting protesters denounce Indonesia's president, Abdurrahman Wahid, in what has become daily ritual in Jakarta and other major cities; Wahid is embroiled in corruption inquiry, and protests are expected to grow; special parliamentary committee is expected to announce results of its investigation into charges that Wahid's personal masseur embezzled $3.7 million from state agency, and that Wahid failed to report secret $2 million gift from sultan of Brunei; Wahid took office with ... GOLF: ROUNDUP; Wayne Smith Leads By One in Thailand Golf Roundup; Wayne Smith takes lead after first round of Johnnie Walker Classic in Bangkok; Pres Clinton shows up at 11:30PM to play at Royal Brunei Golf and Country, after long day of summit meetings; he and Singapore Prime Min Goh Chok Tong play nine holes until 2AM, on lighted course in lush rain forest, despite flashes of lightning REPORTERS' NOTEBOOK; An Oil Barony Knows How to Entertain Important Visitors Reporters' Notebook vignettes from Pres Clinton's visit to oil-rich Brunei; photo of Pres Clinton and his daughter, Chelsea, being greeted by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and his two wives Brunei Darussalam is situated on the north-west of the island of Borneo, between east longitudes 114 degrees 04' and 11 degrees 23' and north latitudes of 4 degrees 00' and 5 degrees 05'. It has a total area of 5,765-sq. km. with a coastline of about 161-km along the South China Sea. It is bounded on the North by the South China Sea and on all the other sides by Malaysian State of Sarawak. Brunei Darussalam's vision is to promote the country as a unique tourist destination and gateway to tourism excellence in South East Asia. The objectives are to create international awareness of Brunei Darussalam as a holiday destination; to maximise earnings of foreign exchange and make tourism as one of the main contributor to GDP. In addition, it will create employment opportunities. The country offers a wide variety of attractive places to be visited and experienced. The rainforest and National Parks are rich in flora and fauna. Its most magnificent mosques, water village (traditional and historic houses on stilts), rich culture and Jerudong Theme Park are among the uniqueness of Brunei Darussalam. Brunei Darussalam is divided into four districts namely Brunei/Muara, Tutong, Belait and Temburong. Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital of Brunei Darussalam with an area of about 16 sq. km. And a population of about 46 thousands including Kampong Ayer (Water Village). It is located in the Brunei/Muara District, and is the Centre of government and business activities. Other towns are Muara, about 41 km to the north east of Bandar Seri Begawan where the chief port is located, Seria which is the seat of oil and gas industry, and Kuala Belait, Pekan Tutong and Bangar which are the administrative centres of Belait, Tutong and Temburong Districts respectively. WHEN TO GO: National Day Celebration The nation celebrates this joyous occasion on the 23rd of February and the people usually prepare themselves two months beforehand. Schoolchildren, private sector representatives and civil servants work hand-in-hand rehearsing their part in flash card displays and other colourful crowd formations. In addition mass prayers and reading of Surah Yaasin are held at mosques throughout the country. Fasting Month (Ramadhan) Ramadhan is a holy month for all Muslims. This marks the beginning of the period of fasting abstinence from food, drink and other material comforts from dawn to dusk. During this month, religious activities are held at mosques and suraus throughout the country Hari Raya Aidilfitri Hari Raya is a time for celebration after the end of the fasting month of Ramadhan. In the early part of the first day, prayers are held at every mosque in the country. Families get together to seek forgiveness from the elders and loved ones. You will see Bruneians decked-out in their traditional garb visiting relatives and friends. Special festive dishes are made especially for Hari Raya including satay (beef, chicken or mutton kebabs), ketupat or lontong (rice cakes in coconut or banana leaves), rendang (spicy marinated beef) and other tantalizing cuisines. In these auspicious occassion Istana Nurul Iman was open to the public as well as to visitors for 3 days. This provides the nation and other visitors the opportunity to meet His Majesty and other members of the Royal Family, in order to wish them a Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day 31st of May marks the commemoration of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces formation day. The occassion is celebrated with military parades, artillery displays, parachuting and exhibitions. Hari Raya Aidiladha This is also known as Hari Raya Korban. Sacrifices of goats and cows are practiced to commemorate the Islamic historical event of Prophet Ibrahim S.A.W. The meat is then distributed among relatives, friends and the less fortunates. His Majesty the Sultan's Birthday This is one of the most important events in the national calendar with activities and festivities taking place nationwide. Celebrated on 15th July, this event begins with mass prayer throughout the country. On this occassion, His Majesty the Sultan delivers a 'titah' or royal address followed by investiture ceremony held at the Istana Nurul Iman. The event is also marked with gatherings at the four districts where His Majesty meets and gets together with his subjects. Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad In Brunei Darussalam, this occasion is known as the Mauludin Nabi S.A.W. Muslims throughout the country honour this event. Readings from the Holy Koran - the Muslim Holy Book, and an address on Islam from officials of the Ministry of Religious Affairs marks the beginning of this auspicious occasion. His Majesty the Sultan also gives a royal address and with other members of the Royal family, leads a procession on foot through the main streets of Bandar Seri Begawan. Religious functions, lectures and other activities are also held to celebrate this important occasion nationwide. Chinese New Year Celebrated by the Chinese community, this festival lasts for two weeks. It begins with a reunion dinner on the eve of the Lunar New Year to encourage closer rapport between family members. For the next two week, families visit one another bringing with them oranges to symbolize longevity and good fortune. Traditional cookies and food are aplenty during this festivity. Unmarried young people and children will receive 'angpow' or little red packets with money inside, a symbolic gesture of good luck, wealth and health. Christmas Day Throughout the world, 25th of December marks Christmas day, a significant day for all Christians. Christmas is nevertheless a joyous and colourful celebration enjoyed by Christians throughout the country. Teachers' Day Teachers' Day is celebrated on every 23rd September in recognition of the good deeds of the teachers to the community, religion and the country. It is celebrated in commemoration of the birthday of the late Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Saadul Khairi Waddien, the 28th Sultan of Brunei for his contribution in the field of education including religious education. On this occassion, three awards are given away namely, Meritorious Teacher's Award, Outstanding Teacher's Award and "Guru Tua" Award. Public Service Day The date 29th September is observed as the Public Service Day with the objective to uphold the aspiration of the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam towards creating an efficient, clean, sincere and honest public service. The Public Service Day commemorates the promulgation of the first written Constitution in Brunei Darussalam. The Public Service Day is celebrated with the presentation of the meritorious service award to Ministries and Government Departments. Climate Brunei Darussalam has an equatorial climate characterized by a uniform high temperature, high humidity and heavy rainfall. Temperatures range from 23 - 32 Degree Celsius, while rainfall varies from 2,500 mm annually on the coast to 7,500 mm in the interior. There is no distinct wet season.
Brunei Mosque picture of Brunei
Burnei Brunei by night Brunei Med Dar El Salam Brunei By Night Brunei Culture

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