Introduction
other races 11 per cent. The label �other indigenous groups' covers the 20 000 plus citizens who, during the early 20th century, came from contiguous parts of Borneo to reside in Brunei, mainly Iban, Kadazan, Punan and Melanau.
Religion is an important component in Brunei life. Islam is the state religion, with the population comprising a Muslim majority (67%), Buddhists (13%), Christians (10%), and holders of indigenous animistic beliefs, and others (10%).Despite its small size, Brunei is one of the wealthier nations of Asia. This is due to the country's natural resources. Brunei is the third largest oil producer in Southeast Asia and the world's fourth largest producer of liquefied natural gas. Its petro-carbon-derived wealth, together with income from investments abroad, has been used to secure high living standards for the people (currently second only to Japan in Asia), with the Government providing free health and education services together with low interest housing loans for its citizens. Brunei is one of only a few non-democratic nations in the region. Elections were suspended in 1962.
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