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Brunei

Brunei Darussalam

Mixed common law and Islamic lawAbsolute monarchyReviewed· 2026-08-03
Capital
Bandar Seri Begawan
Population
450,000
Languages
Malay, English
Currency
BND

Brunei · Constitution

Constitution of Brunei Darussalam

Granted in 1959 while Brunei was still a British protected state, and amended in 1971, 1984 and 2004. It vests supreme executive authority in the Sultan, provides for appointed advisory councils, and declares the state philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja — Malay Islamic Monarchy. A state of emergency proclaimed in December 1962 has been renewed every two years since, and under it the Sultan may make Orders having the force of law, which is the principal legislative route in practice.

The constitutional text

Granted in 1959 while Brunei was still a British protected state, and amended in 1971, 1984 and 2004. It vests supreme executive authority in the Sultan, provides for appointed advisory councils, and declares the state philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja — Malay Islamic Monarchy. A state of emergency proclaimed in December 1962 has been renewed every two years since, and under it the Sultan may make Orders having the force of law, which is the principal legislative route in practice.

Separation of powers

Unitary, with four districts administered by district officers reporting to the Ministry of Home Affairs. No federal or devolved tier; village and mukim headmen have recognised consultative functions.

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