Bandar Seri Begawan, << BAHN dahr SEHR ee beh GAH wahn >> (pop. 75,000), is the capital of Brunei. It is also the nation’s largest city and commercial center. Bandar Seri Begawan lies on the Brunei River in northeastern Brunei about 12 miles (19 kilometers) from the port town of Muara.
Many of Bandar Seri Begawan’s residents live in the Kampong Ayer (Water Village), where houses are built on stilts over the Brunei River. The houses are connected by wooden walkways, and water taxis provide transportation. Bandar Seri Begawan also has modern hotels, apartments, and office buildings. City landmarks include the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque; the Istana Nurul Iman, the palace of Brunei’s ruler, the sultan; the Royal Ceremonial Hall; and the Royal Regalia Building. The University of Brunei Darussulam is also in the city.
Bandar Seri Begawan has a number of plants for processing petroleum and natural gas. Factories produce furniture, textiles, and a variety of other goods. Brunei International Airport serves the city.
Bandar Seri Begawan was formerly known as Brunei Town. It was renamed in honor of a former sultan in 1970.
