Prime Minister Modi’s Visit to Brunei: Significance and Background
Introduction
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a historic visit to Brunei, at the invitation of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. This is the first official visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations. The timing of this visit, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei, underscores its importance.
Overview of Brunei
Geography and History
Brunei is a small nation located on the northern coast of Borneo Island in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by the South China Sea to the north and Malaysia’s Sarawak state to the east, west, and south.
Under British rule from 1888, Brunei was the only Malay state not merged with Malaysia. It gained independence in 1984 and is a member of the Commonwealth and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Population and Languages
With a population of approximately 460,000, Brunei is home to a diverse mix of people. About two-thirds of the population belongs to indigenous groups such as the Dusun, Belait, Kedayan, Murut, and Bisaya. There is also a significant Chinese community, along with non-Malay indigenous people and temporary workers from South Asia, Asia, and Europe.
While Malay is the official language, English serves as the second most widely spoken language. Mandarin is also taught in schools for the Chinese community.
Wealth and Living Conditions
Sultan Bolkiah is one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, with an estimated net worth of around $30 billion. He owns approximately 7,000 cars and resides in the world’s largest palace. He ascended the throne in 1968 after the abdication of his father, Sir Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien.
Brunei is notable for having no personal income tax, adding to its appeal as a wealthy and prosperous nation.
Legal and Social Framework
Brunei is the first East Asian country to adopt Islamic Sharia law. It also has stringent laws, including the death penalty for certain crimes such as homosexual acts.
India-Brunei Relations
Cultural and Economic Ties
As part of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, Brunei plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s relations with the Asia-Pacific region. From 2012 to 2015, Brunei served as a coordinator for India’s engagement with ASEAN, significantly contributing to deepening these ties. In 2023, trade between India and Brunei amounted to $195.2 million.
Indian Presence in Brunei
Indians have been present in Brunei since the 1930s. Currently, around 14,500 Indians live in Brunei, primarily working in the oil and gas industry, construction, and retail sectors. Additionally, there are Indian professionals in fields such as medicine, education, engineering, and information technology. Indian entrepreneurs have also played a significant role in the development of Brunei’s textile industry.
Purpose of Prime Minister Modi’s Visit
The visit is aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors including defense, energy, space, skill development, and culture. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has expressed confidence that this visit will further strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Brunei.
This visit is expected to elevate the relationship between the two countries to new heights, fostering greater collaboration and mutual growth.
Discussion about this post