- Brunei is an island country located in Southeast Asia with a population of around 407,000. It has a tropical climate and its economy relies heavily on petroleum and natural gas exports. - The country is an absolute monarchy and has been ruled by the Bolkiah royal family and the Sultan since the 15th century. In 1984, Brunei gained full independence from British rule. - Brunei has a very high standard of living thanks to its oil and gas wealth. The majority of Bruneians are Malay and Muslim, and Islam is the official religion, though other faiths are tolerated.