Brunei Darussalam, a small yet wealthy nation located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, is bordered by the South China Sea and Malaysia. Known for its lush rainforests and abundant oil and gas reserves, Brunei's history stretches back over a thousand years, with early influences from Hindu-Buddhist and later Islamic civilizations. By the 15th century, Brunei emerged as a significant maritime sultanate, extending its power over much of coastal Borneo and parts of the Philippines. The arrival of European colonial powers, especially the British in the 19th century, gradually diminished Brunei’s territory and influence. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate, retaining only a fraction of its former lands but maintaining its own monarchy. Gaining full independence in 1984, Brunei is today ruled by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, under whom the country has maintained political stability, implemented Sharia law, and fostered economic prosperity through its rich petroleum and natural gas exports.