HOMEPAGE POLITICAL SYSTEM Brunei Darussalam is an absolute monarchy, where His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam serves as the Head of State and Government, holding authority over religious, political, legislative and executive matters. The Constitution grants the Sultan executive powers, which are supported and advised by five key councils. The Privy Council is responsible for constitutional amendments and ceremonial customs; the Religious Council advises on Islamic matters and helps draft religious laws; the Council of Ministers is tasked with administrative functions and policy approvals, the Legislative Council oversees legislative processes; and the Council of Succession determines matters of royal succession. His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzadin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has reigned since 1967, and is currently the world’s longest-serving monarch. His Majesty also serves a Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance and Economy. Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince of Brunei Darussalam holds the role of Senior Minister of the Prime Minister's Office. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

MUSIC Traditional Brunei music reflects the joy and history of the nation, expressed through graceful dances and unique ethnic instruments such as the gendang (drum), gambus (stringed instrument) and serunai (flute). Folk songs, characterised by melodic simplicity, are performed during festivals and community gatherings, creating a sense of warmth and connection. During festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri (marking the end of Ramadan) and Maulidur Rasul (celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad), Bruneians use music and the performing arts not only for entertainment but also to preserve cultural traditions steeped in the Islamic religion. This serves as a bridge between generations and a way share Brunei’s rich heritage with the world. HOMEPAGE HOMEPAGE LIFE IN BRUNEI IN THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD Traditional Brunei music reflects the joy and history of the nation, expressed through graceful dances and unique ethnic instruments such as the gendang (drum), gambus (stringed instrument) and serunai (flute). Folk songs, characterised by melodic simplicity, are performed during festivals and community gatherings, creating a sense of warmth and connection. During festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri (marking the end of Ramadan) and Maulidur Rasul (celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad), Bruneians use music and the performing arts not only for entertainment but also to preserve cultural traditions steeped in the Islamic religion. This serves as a bridge between generations and a way share Brunei’s rich heritage with the world. BRUNEIAN MUSIC WEDDING In Brunei, traditional Malay weddings are elaborate cultural ceremonies reflecting the importance of family values and the preservation of tradition. Weddings can span several weeks with 10 different ceremonies, especially among aristocratic or royal families. The official Malay wedding ceremony, called “Bersanding”, is an important event where the bride and groom, dressed in traditional attire, are formally united before family and friends. This ceremony symbolizes the couple’s introduction to society as husband and wife. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

HOMEPAGE ECONOMY Brunei's economy is mainly based on the oil and gas sector, which contributes over 90% of export turnover and forms a significant for share of its GDP. Brunei’s economy consists of three primary sectors: industry, services, and agriculture/forestry/fishery. The industry sector remains the largest contributor, accounting for 60.7% of GDP in 2023 and increasing to 64.7% in the second quarter of 2024. The service sector also contributed 34.1% in 2023, rising to 38.1% by mid-2024, with a steady growth trend. In contrast, the agriculture, forestry, and fishery sector has continued to decline, representing only 1.2% of GDP. Wawasan Brunei 2035 (Brunei Vision 2035) The Brunei Government issued Brunei Vision 2035 in 2007, aiming to transform the country into a dynamic and sustainable developed nation. The vision focuses on achieving international standards in education and technical development, enhancing the quality of life of its people, and ranking among the top developed countries globally. Wawasan Brunei identifies five key investment priority areas: Halal industries, innovative technology and creative industries, business services, tourism and downstream oil and gas. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

HOME FEELINGS OF INTERN GROUP DIPLOMATIC ACADEMY OF VIET NAM Dang Le Xuan Mai - intern courses I and II, International Relations - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "I feel extremely lucky and proud to be selected for an internship at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei, especially as the person initiating the first ideas and as the co-leader of the project "Learning about Brunei culture and the role of cultural exchange in promoting Viet Nam - Brunei relations." I am extremely grateful for the dedicated guidance from the two Embassies, the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam and the enthusiasm of all 17 team members. The internship process at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei and implementing the project helped me learn more about the history, culture, traditions of Brunei and realize the importance of culture in connecting two countries. These memorable experiences have taught me about the value of perseverance and responsibility, and ignited the belief that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to building sustainable bridges between peoples. This will forever be a meaningful piece of luggage that I cherish on my journey to pursue a diplomatic career ahead." Truong Duc Cuong - intern course I, International Relations - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "I am a student of the 48th course, majoring in International Relations at the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. As an intern at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei Darussalam, I had the opportunity to learn about Brunei and I felt very impressed with the unique culture of this country. I am honored to participate in the project "Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam and Brunei" because this is a valuable opportunity to interact with Embassy officials who are professional diplomats and to learn more about Brunei culture and its bilateral relations with Viet Nam." Nguyen Thanh Mai - intern course III, International Communication - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam “I am a student of course 49 at the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. When I became an intern at the Embassy, my love of Brunei culture came very naturally to me. I was very impressed by a peaceful country, where people have a peaceful life and a very diverse nature. Through this project, I feel that Brunei and Vietnam have an increasingly close relationship regardless of language and religion barriers.” Ha Le Bao Thi – intern course III, International Relations - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "As a student of course 49 - intern of course III at the Vietnamese Embassy in Brunei and participating in the project "Learning about Brunei culture and the contribution of cultural exchange activities to bilateral relations Brunei - Vietnam" is a precious opportunity and honor for me. Through the process, I not only put all my skills and knowledge into practice but also have the opportunity to develop myself. Through research and discovery, I was very impressed by Brunei, a country rich in culture and identity." Truong My Hoa - intern course III, International Economics - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "As a student of Class 48 majoring in International Economics at the Diplomatic Academy, I feel extremely lucky to be given the opportunity to intern at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei Darussalam. Previously, I did not have much knowledge about this country, however, after working and researching under the dedicated guidance of Embassy officials, I have learned many interesting things about the country's economy. Economy, culture, people here. In particular, I am very honored to participate in the project "Learn about Brunei culture and the contribution of cultural exchange activities to Vietnam - Brunei bilateral relations". This is truly a memorable experience in my student life." Nguyen Ngoc My Uyen – course III, International Economics - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "Becoming one of the Embassy's interns of course III is a great opportunity for me. During my internship at the Embassy, I had the opportunity to participate in a professional working environment, with the opportunity to learn and develop skills to achieve further progress in the future. One of the most memorable highlights during the internship was the opportunity to participate in the project "Learning about Brunei culture and the contribution of cultural exchange activities to Viet Nam-Brunei bilateral relations". This project not only helps me expand my knowledge about Brunei in general, but also helps me see that, through every step, cultural exchanges are not simply events but also a bridge that connects hearts and minds. soul between nations." Hoang Quynh Anh – intern of course III, International Economics - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "As an intern at the Embassy, I have the opportunity to help organize diplomatic events, learn deeply about culture, and practice working skills in a multicultural environment. I was enthusiastically guided by the officials, learned more about diplomatic work and was proud to contribute a small part to promoting culture and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries." Nguyen Do Linh Nhi - course II, International Communications - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "Having the opportunity to intern at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei Darussalam during the past 3 months of summer was a memorable experience for me personally. The Embassy created conditions for me to learn about the country, life and people of Brunei as well as the Islamic religion and Halal policy. The knowledge and experience of interning for 03 months at the Embassy gave me the honor of becoming a member of the Organizing team of the project "Learning about Brunei culture and the contribution of cultural exchange activities to the Brunei - Viet Nam bilateral relations". For me, the project was a valuable experience when I had the opportunity to work directly with the embassies of the two countries, with people of two different cultures. I hope the project will be successful and create a widespread impact, contributing to promoting the relationship between Viet Nam and Brunei to become stronger and stronger. " Nguyen Phuong Anh - intern of course III, International Law - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam “As an intern of course III at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei, I had a valuable opportunity to learn and research in detail about the country and people of Brunei. The project "Learn about Brunei culture and the contribution of cultural exchange activities to bilateral relations between Vietnam and Brunei" has brought me impressive experiences and is an opportunity to help me improve my knowledge. , skills and future career orientation.” Le Nguyen Quynh Anh - course III, International Relations - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "As a course III intern of the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei, I feel extremely honored to participate in the project "Learning about Brunei culture and the contribution of cultural exchange activities to Brunei - Viet Nam bilateral relations". Through the project, I have the opportunity to explore and understand more deeply the cultural characteristics, customs, and lifestyle of the people here. These experiences not only helped me understand more about the beauty of Brunei culture and the harmony between cultures, but also made me more clearly aware of the value of the bilateral cooperation relationship between Brunei and Viet Nam." Do Khanh Van - course III intern, International Communications - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "I feel very lucky to have become an intern at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei and to be given the opportunity to participate in the project "Learning about Brunei culture and the contribution of cultural exchange activities to cultural exchange activities Brunei - Viet Nam relations". I learned and discovered many things about the beautiful country of Brunei as well as the history of strong friendship between the two countries. The project in particular and the internship in general inspired me to learn deeply about the cultural aspects of Brunei as well as in promoting and introducing Viet Nam's culture. Through this experience, I also hope to have the opportunity to visit Brunei myself to have the most authentic cultural exchange experiences, and wish the friendship between Brunei and Viet Nam to become deeper and stronger." Trinh Hoang Oanh - intern of course II, International Economics - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "I feel extremely honored and lucky to have the opportunity to be an intern at the Viet Nam Embassy in Brunei. Here, I not only learned from my senior colleagues and fellow interns but also had the chance to practice and apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations. Additionally, participating in the project “Exploring Brunei's Culture and the Contribution of Cultural Exchange Activities to Bilateral Relations between Brunei and Viet Nam” is a valuable opportunity for me to learn more about Brunei’s culture and promote Brunei’s culture to the Vietnamese people and vice versa." Nguyen Hai Linh - intern of course III, International Relations - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "Becoming an intern at the Viet Nam Embassy in Brunei and participating in the project 'Exploring Brunei's Culture and the Contribution of Cultural Exchange Activities to the Bilateral Relations Between Brunei and Viet Nam' is a great opportunity and an honor for me. I am proud to contribute to further strengthening the relationship between the two countries, Brunei and Viet Nam, through exploring and discovering the beauty of Brunei's culture, people, and customs, in order to organize meaningful cultural exchange activities like this one." Pham Dao Hong Ngoc- course II, International Communication - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "I am deeply grateful to the people at the Embassy, and the 3 months of internship have helped me grow both personally and professionally, in terms of knowledge and skills. The project “Exploring Brunei's Culture and the Contribution of Cultural Exchange Activities to Bilateral Relations between Brunei and Viet Nam” is a very meaningful project, giving me the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural features of Brunei Darussalam, while also providing insight into the work of the diplomatic staff at the Embassy." Tran Thu Uyen- intern of course II, International Economics - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "I feel extremely honored and lucky to have the opportunity to be an intern at the Viet Nam Embassy in Brunei. During my internship, I not only had the chance to improve my knowledge and research skills under the guidance of my seniors and the Ambassador, but I also had the opportunity to learn more about the Islamic culture of Brunei. Through this, I became familiar with the healthy lifestyle and food consumption habits of the people of Brunei in particular, and the Muslim community in general." Nguyen Thu Trang - course III, International Communication - Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam "As a student at the Academy, I feel very lucky and happy to be one of the interns working at the Viet Nam Embassy in Brunei. Throughout the internship, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge in diplomacy, learned more about the culture, people, and the unique religious beliefs in Brunei. Moreover, participating in the project “Exploring Brunei's Culture and the Contribution of Cultural Exchange Activities to Bilateral Relations between Brunei and Viet Nam” will be one of the precious opportunities for me to better understand this beautiful country." Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

HOMEPAGE NATURE Brunei, sometimes referred to as the "Green Pearl of Southeast Asia,” is renowned for its lush tropical rainforests and rich biodiversity. The Ulu Temburong National Park, located within the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve, is one of the largest remaining pristine rainforests in the region. This park is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including rare species such as the Kinabalu Snake Eagle, rhinoceros hornbill, and hundreds of butterfly species, as well as numerous reptiles, mammals and insects. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM ABODE OF PEACE DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEM DARUSSALAM Like COUNTRY KHÁM PHÁ CULTURE KHÁM PHÁ NATURE KHÁM PHÁ CULTURAL DIPLOMACY KHÁM PHÁ DAV STUDENTS KHÁM PHÁ PHOTOGRAPHERS KHÁM PHÁ COUNTRY INTRODUCTION Brunei Darussalam is located in the northwest region of the island of Borneo, which shares borders with Malaysia to the south and west, and the South China Sea to the north. Brunei is currently ruled by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan. SEE MORE COUNTRY HISTORY Brunei’s history dates back to the early days of maritime empires, including Srivijaya - a naval kingdom that existed from the 7th to the 13th century. Through many stages in history, Brunei Darussalam has continuously developed until this day. SEE MORE COUNTRY NATIONAL PHILOSOPHY Brunei Darussalam, with its unique geographical location and long history, enjoys a special national philosophy, ‘Melayu Islam Beraja’ (Malay Islamic Monarchy or MIB) that plays a central role in Brunei's cultural identity. SEE MORE COUNTRY POLITICAL SYSTEM Brunei Darussalam is an absolute monarchy, where His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam serves as the Head of State and Government, holding authority over religious, political, legislative and executive matters SEE MORE COUNTRY LEGAL SYSTEM Brunei's legal system is a unique combination of common law and the Islamic law (Sharia law)... SEE MORE COUNTRY ECONOMY Brunei's economy is mainly based on the oil and gas sector, which contributes over 90% of export turnover and forms a significant for share of its GDP (64.7% as of 2022). SEE MORE FESTIVALS Bruneians highly value Islam and the spiritual values it brings, focusing on activities that strengthen family and community bonds such as fasting, praying, and visiting. SEE MORE LANDMARKS When the sun shines on the domes of mosques, domes and minarets, Brunei shines like gold. Unique villages such as Kampong Ayer (floating village) become popular tourist destinations in Brunei. SEE MORE BRUNEIAN'S LIFE The life of Brunei people is peaceful and simple. Daily activities are simple, not crowded or bustling. Brunei people are friendly and hospitable to each other, which becomes a beautiful feature in the lifestyle and culture of Brunei. SEE MORE CULTURAL FEATURES BEAUTY OF THE WILD The "Green Pearl" of Southeast Asia is a land of lush greenery from pristine tropical forests, where rare species of plants and animals are preserved. The diverse and vast ecosystem of Brunei's forests is a highlight, attracting a large number of tourists each year to explore the green landscape of Brunei. SEE MORE STUDENTS ENGAGING IN CULTURAL DIPLOMACY The group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam had the special opportunity to intern at the Embassy of Viet Nam in Brunei Darussalam, where they not only experienced a professional working environment but also actively participated in real diplomatic activities that promote cultural exchange between the two countries. NGUYEN THANH MAI Student of the 49th Class of the Faculty of International Communication and Culture Leader of the intern group batch III TRUONG DUC CUONG Student of the 48th Class Faculty of International Politics and Diplomacy Leader of the Intern group batch I DANG LE XUAN MAI Student of the 48th Class Faculty of International Politics and Diplomacy Leader of the Intern group batch II INTERNSHIP MEMOIRS Group of students from the Vietnam Diplomatic Academy under the virtual internship at the Vietnamese Embassy in Brunei Darussalam... SEE MORE PHOTOGRAPHER TRAN CHAN Mr. Tran Chan is a Vietnamese who lives and studies in Brunei. He has a passion for photography and has shared many photos of Brunei. He was honored to receive a certificate of appreciation from the Brunei Government in the "Celebrate Through the Lens: Capture the Joy of His Majesty’s 78th Birthday" Photography Competition in 2024. CULTURAL DIPLOMACY Cultural diplomacy plays a bridging role, promoting mutual understanding and enhancing the friendly, comprehensive cooperation between Viet Nam and Brunei, contributing to building a solid foundation for sustainable development between the two countries. THE AMBASSADOR EXTRAORDINARY AND PLENIPOTENTIARY OF VIET NAM TO BRUNEI DARUSSALAM H.E. TRAN ANH VU "Cultural diplomacy, along with political and economic diplomacy, contributes to fostering cooperation, connection, understanding, and mutual trust, thereby strengthening the relationship between Viet Nam and its partners, including Brunei Darussalam." DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE DIPLOMATIC ACADEMY OF VIET NAM PhD. NGUYEN THI THIN "In the future, the Diplomatic Academy is committed to continuing to develop internship programs, constantly innovating content and form to meet the increasingly diverse needs of students." PHOTOGRAPHERS The project is inspired by the artistic photo collection of two talented photographers currently living in Brunei. The photographs provided by the photographers vividly depict contemporary life and the unique cultural features of Brunei. PHOTOGRAPHER LOW TONG WAH Mr. Low Tong Wah is a Malaysian native who has lived and worked in Brunei Darussalam since 1988. He is both an engineer and a social activist, involved in numerous charitable activities. He has made significant contributions to the iCare Charity Foundation in Thailand, which provides shelters and scholarships for many orphaned and homeless children. He actively participates in the activities of the diplomatic community in Brunei Darussalam. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024 HOANG THI NGOC ANH Lecturer - Faculty of International Law - DAV Ms. Ngoc Anh was very impressed with the architecture and religion, and wished to interact more with Bruneians after working in Brunei. She shared: "Students of the Diplomatic Academy can make positive contributions to cultural diplomacy and people-to-people diplomacy..." TRAN CHAN Vietnamese living in Brunei Darussalam Tran Chan loves the people here and feels that the Muslim community in Brunei is very easy to integrate for a Vietnamese living far from home.

NATIONAL PHILOSOPHY HOMEPAGE Brunei Darussalam’s national philosophy, ‘Melayu Islam Beraja’ (Malay Islamic Monarchy or MIB), is central to its cultural and national identity. This philosophy is built on three interconnected pillars: Malay Culture, Islam and Mornachy. The "Melayu" represents Brunei’s national identity, highlighting the importance of language, traditions, and cultural heritage in preserving the nation’s values. "Islam" reflects Brunei’s status as a Muslim nation. Islam serves as a moral and spiritual guide, influencing daily life, rituals, and societal values. The "Beraja" demonstrates Brunei’s monarchical system, with the Sultan as the leader who embodies national unity and sovereignty. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

NATIONAL DAY Hari Kebangsaan or National Day (February 23) is one of Brunei's most significant annual celebrations, commemorating its independence in 1984. The event features grand parades in the capital Bandar Seri Begawan, involving the participation of military forces, police, social organizations and local citizens from all walks of life. Festivities include traditional music, dance performances, community events, and exhibitions, creating a vibrant and colorful atmosphere. The festivities concludes with a spectacular fireworks display HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN'S BIRTHDAY His Majesty the Sultan’s Birthday is a month-long celebration marked by military parades, cultural performances, and traditional ceremonies at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien park in the capital. The event draws both citizens and foreign dignitaries, emphasizing the strong bond between His Majesty and his people in Brunei. HARI RAYA Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid-ul Fitr) , marking the end of Ramadan, is one of the most important festivals in Brunei. Hari Raya is not only a time for worship and prayer, but also an opportunity for people to strengthen relationships, express gratitude and forgiveness. Families clean and decorate their homes, wear traditional attire like Baju Melayu (for men) and Baju Kurung (for women), and enjoy local delicacies such as lemang (sticky rice cooked in bamboo), serunding (spicy shredded meat) and a variety of kuih (traditional cakes and pastries). During Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Bruneians traditionally open their doors to family, friends, and even strangers are warmly welcomed into their homes. His Majesty the Sultan opens the palace to the public, exemplifying the closeness between the monarchy and the people. HOMEPAGE IMPORTANT EVENTS NATIONAL DAY HARI RAYA HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN'S BIRTHDAY ROYAL BUNEI ARMED FORCE DAY RAMADAN & HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024 ROYAL BUNEI ARMED FORCE DAY Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day is a public holiday honoring the military, including the Royal Brunei Army, Air Force, and Navy. Celebrations include parades, performances by military bands, and special activities paying homage to the armed forces and the veterans. Schools, government agencies and most businesses close for the day. RAMADAN & HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI Ramadan is a significant period especially for Bruneians of the Islamic. During this holy month, fasting from food and drink, as well as wrongdoing and improper acts, is observed from dawn to dusk. It is during this time that the people reflect and connect with the community. The spirit of Ramadan is demonstrated through charity events and communal iftar meals, where people gather to break their fast together. Visitors of all faiths and beliefs are often welcomed to participate in these gatherings, experiencing a sense of solidarity and receiving a warm welcome from the locals. Hari Raya AidilFitri is a time for Muslims to express their gratitude to Allah after the fasting and reflection period of the month of Ramadan. Before Hari Raya AidilFitri, families thoroughly clean their homes and decorate them with bright lights and beautiful ornaments. Men wear Baju Melayu, a loose shirt paired with Sampin, a traditional sarong. Women wear Baju Kurung, a set of a loose shirt and skirt, complemented by Tudong (headscarf). Visitors can enjoy delicious dishes such as lemang (glutinous rice cooked in bamboo), serunding (spicy shredded meat), and various types of kuih (traditional cakes and sweets). During Hari Raya AidilFitri, the people of Brunei have a tradition of opening their doors to family, friends, and even strangers, who are warmly welcomed to visit their homes.

HOMEPAGE FAMOUS LANDMARKS OMAR ALI SAIFUDDIEN MOSQUE Mosques are iconic symbols of Brunei. The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the nation’s most famous landmarks, blends traditional Malay and Islamic architectural styles. Situated on an artificial island surrounded by a lagoon, the mosque creates a breathtakingly serene and impressive scene. JAME'ASR HASSANIL BOLKIAH Another significant mosque is the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the largest mosque in Brunei, accommodating up to 5,000 worshippers. Its architecture is inspired by Middle Eastern designs, featuring grand gold-plated domes and intricate decorative details. KAMPONG AYER FLOATING VILLAGE Kampong Ayer floating village, is a must-visit tourist destination in Brunei. Known as the world’s largest floating village, it symbolizes the country’s history and culture. Comprising stilt houses connected by wooden bridges, Kampong Ayer preserves traditional ways of life, offering a unique and captivating scene for many visitors. SULTAN HAJI OMAR ‘ALI SAIFUDDIEN BRIDGE The Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Bridge, also known as the Temburong Bridge, is a dual-carriageway bridge in Brunei that began construction in 2014 and officially opened to the public in March 2020. Stretching at a remarkable 30 kilometers long, it is the longest bridge in Southeast Asia, connecting Brunei’s mainland district of Brunei-Muara to the semi-exclave of Temburong. The bridge enables passengers to travel between the two territories of Brunei without passing through Malaysia, thus significantly shortening commuters’ travel time. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

HOMEPAGE Brunei’s history dates back to the early days of maritime empires, including Srivijaya - a naval kingdom that existed from the 7th to the 13th century. During this era, the region was deeply influenced by the coastal civilizations of Southeast Asia. Islam was introduced in the 14th century, become the official state religion and the foundation of Brunei’s legal and cultural framework. This adoption of Islam strengthened Brunei’s identity by uniting it with the global Muslim community The embodiment of Islamic values within the daily lives of the people laid the groundwork for a rich cultural heritage. Today, Islam remains a guiding force in Brunei’s ideology and societal values. A defining moment in Brunei's history occurred in the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Bolkiah, the fifth Sultan of Brunei. Known as Brunei’s “Golden Age,” this period saw the kingdom flourish as a regional hub for trade and power, extending its influence from Borneo to the Philippines. In the 17th and 18th centuries, as Western empires sought to expand their influence in the region, Brunei then had faced challenges. In 1888, Brunei entered a treaty with Britain becoming a British protectorate. This arrangement lasted until 1984, when Brunei declared independence and adopted its national philosophy of “Melayu Islam Beraja” (Malay Islamic Monarchy). HISTORY Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

HOMEPAGE Brunei Darussalam (often referred to as Brunei) is a Southeast Asian country located in the northwest region of the island of Borneo, which shares borders with Malaysia to the south and west, and the South China Sea (known as the East Sea in Viet Nam) to the north. The nation spans 5,765 km² and is divided into four administrative districts: Brunei-Muara, Belait, Tutong and Temburong. Bandar Seri Begawan in the Brunei-Muara District serves as the nation’s capital and its administrative and business centre. Capital Bandar Seri Begawan INTRODUCTION TO BRUNEI CLIMATE Brunei enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, characterised by stable temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C throughout. The rainy season typically lasts from late August to January. The country is rich in pristine rainforests, experiences few natural disasters, and relies on oil and gas is its main source of income. NATIONAL FLAG Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024

HOMEPAGE LEGAL SYSTEM Brunei's legal system is a unique combination of common law and the Islamic law (Sharia law). Common Law is based on principles of the United Kingdom’s common law and the doctrine of equity, Brunei applies statutes of general application from England, adapted to local circumstances and customs. Sharia Law is the Islamic law in Brunei is derived from the Quran, hadith, qiyas (analogical reasoning), and ijma (consensus of opinion). It primarily applies to Muslims, although certain aspects may extend to non-Muslims in specific cases. Exploring Brunei’s Culture and Promoting Cultural Exchange between Viet Nam - Brunei The website was created by a group of students from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam. © 2024