Kingdom on Borneo
The kingdom of long-nosed monkeys, lush mangrove and rainforests, and rich oil reserves-this is Brunei. I visited this laid-back country and was surprised at its lack of developments even though it is one of the richest countries in the world. This small country on Borneo is well-known for its oil industry, which is largely dominated by Shell. Crude oil and natural gas production makes up 90% of the country’s GDP. I was expecting to see highrises with elaborate architecture and design in this rich country, but was surprised at the flat terrain and simple way of living led by those living with Brunei. It was interesting to learn from locals that the wealth of the country is distributed quite evenly to the citizens. Did you know that free education extends through to university, even for university abroad? Citizens also get free medical care and subsidized housing! But one thing that I found quite annoying was the lack of public transportation and the huge amount of cars in this small country-not surprising with the cheap oil. However, this was made up by the delicious and affordable Malaysian inspired cuisines found everywhere, at restaurants and especially night markets which is filled street food like nasi katok (rice with spicy gravy and chicken wrapped in paper) and seasonal fruits such as king bananas, durian, and rambutan. What you won't find is alcohol though in this Muslim country. More on Brunei on my next blog!
The kingdom of long-nosed monkeys, lush mangrove and rainforests, and rich oil reserves-this is Brunei. I visited this laid-back country and was surprised at its lack of developments even though it is one of the richest countries in the world. This small country on Borneo is well-known for its oil industry, which is largely dominated by Shell. Crude oil and natural gas production makes up 90% of the country’s GDP. I was expecting to see highrises with elaborate architecture and design in this rich country, but was surprised at the flat terrain and simple way of living led by those living with Brunei. It was interesting to learn from locals that the wealth of the country is distributed quite evenly to the citizens. Did you know that free education extends through to university, even for university abroad? Citizens also get free medical care and subsidized housing! But one thing that I found quite annoying was the lack of public transportation and the huge amount of cars in this small country-not surprising with the cheap oil. However, this was made up by the delicious and affordable Malaysian inspired cuisines found everywhere, at restaurants and especially night markets which is filled street food like nasi katok (rice with spicy gravy and chicken wrapped in paper) and seasonal fruits such as king bananas, durian, and rambutan. What you won't find is alcohol though in this Muslim country. More on Brunei on my next blog!
