The Brunei Promotion Seminar, organized by the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, was held on the morning of September 17.

The seminar promoted investment projects, tourism resources and Halal accreditation, with a key focus on introducing the Brunei-Guangxi Economic Corridor and Brunei BioInnovation Corridor.

The seminar revolved around topics such as strengthening Brunei-China cooperation on investment, economy and trade after the establishment of the China-ASEAN FTA, especially on further enhancing mutual beneficial cooperation between Brunei and China on raw material, R&D of Halal food, the exploration and promotion of tourism resources, investment on infrastructure construction, agricultural technology and cultural exchanges.

It also focused on promoting bilateral economic cooperation and in-depth development. It aims to propel Brunei-China economic and trade investment partnership, and realize mutual benefit and win-win results for both countries.

Located in the northern part of Borneo and bordered by the South China Sea in the north, Brunei shares borders with Malaysia's Sarawak in the east, south and west, and is separated by Limbang of Sarawak into two separate parts. With a coastline of 161 km and coastal plains, Brunei has many mountains inland. There are 33 islands in Brunei, with eastern Brunei at a high latitude and the western part consisting mostly of marshes.

Brunei has a tropical rainforest climate, with significant heat and rain, and an average temperature of 28 C. Brunei is the third largest oil and the fourth largest liquefied natural gas producing country.

The production and export of oil and natural gas is Brunei's economic mainstay, accounting for 50 percent of its GDP and over 90 percent of its export income, respectively. Brunei's oil reserves and production ranks only second to Indonesia in Southeast Asia, and the export of liquefied natural gas ranks fourth in the world. In 2012, the per capita income of Brunei is $44,000, making it one of the richest countries in the world.

Known for its wealth, oil-rich Brunei is a unique country in Southeast Asia. With an area of only one-sixth of Hainan Island, Brunei has a population of 400,000 people. Brunei is led by a benevolent, wise and caring sultan. As a rich, peaceful, safe and stable country, Brunei does not levy any income tax on individuals and provides free education and health care.

Most of the daily necessities are subsidized by the government. A majority of Muslim Malays, overseas Chinese and international expatriates cohabit harmoniously there. They keep their own religions and their own folk customs. With people respecting each other's religions and diversified culture, Brunei is proud to be a friendly, hospitable yet not over-commercialized destination for tourism.

Brunei boasts abundant tourist resources. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque radiates in the resplendent Islamic culture against the blue sky and white clouds. Sudan Palace, the largest dwelling palace in the world, shows its magnificence and majesty. A village above the water known as the “Eastern Venice” is located across the Saifuddin Mosque, forming a distinct scene in Brunei.

Brunei Empire Hotel, with 518 guest rooms and suites, is the most luxurious tourist resort in Southeast Asia and a heaven for golf fans. Brunei also possesses well-preserved primitive tropical rainforests and diverse rare and valuable wild animals. Ulu Temburong Nature Park is an excellent place for sports and adventures.

People can also experience its natural oxygen bar. In Brunei, visitors can dive around the coral reefs, look up at the gold roof of the sacred mosque, roam in the museums, and taste mouth-watering Brunei food and uncontaminated delicate seafood. In brief, visitors can completely enjoy the comfort and pleasure in this idyllic country in Borneo.

Edited by Michael Thai