Bandar Seri Begawan

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Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital city of Brunei, a small nation on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is the largest city in Brunei and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.

History

The city was originally known as Brunei Town. It was renamed Bandar Seri Begawan on 4 October 1970 in honor of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, who abdicated in 1967. The name "Seri Begawan" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Sri" meaning "blessed" and "Bhagavan" meaning "lord."

Geography

Bandar Seri Begawan is located on the northern bank of the Brunei River, near its mouth on Brunei Bay. The city covers an area of approximately 100.36 square kilometers.

Climate

The city experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and heavy rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C.

Demographics

As of the latest census, Bandar Seri Begawan has a population of approximately 100,700 people. The city is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, including Malays, Chinese, and Indigenous peoples.

Economy

Bandar Seri Begawan is the economic hub of Brunei. The city's economy is primarily driven by the oil and gas industry, which accounts for a significant portion of the country's GDP. Other important sectors include banking, tourism, and retail.

Landmarks

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

One of the most iconic landmarks in Bandar Seri Begawan is the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Completed in 1958, it is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in the Asia-Pacific region.

Istana Nurul Iman

The Istana Nurul Iman is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei. It is the largest residential palace in the world and serves as the seat of the Brunei government.

Kampong Ayer

Known as the "Venice of the East," Kampong Ayer is a historic settlement on the Brunei River. It consists of a network of stilt houses and is home to around 30,000 residents.

Education

Bandar Seri Begawan is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Brunei Darussalam and the Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University.

Transportation

The city is well-connected by a network of roads and highways. The Brunei International Airport serves as the main gateway for air travel. Public transportation includes buses and water taxis.

Culture

The culture of Bandar Seri Begawan is deeply rooted in Malay traditions and Islam. The city hosts various cultural events and festivals, such as the Hari Raya Aidilfitri and the Brunei Regatta.

Related Pages

• Brunei
• Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
• Istana Nurul Iman
• Kampong Ayer
• University of Brunei Darussalam
• Brunei International Airport