Islam as the Central Pillar of Brunei’s National Philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy

This volume highlights Islam’s primacy within the national philosophy of Brunei, Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB), shedding light on the multifaceted ways Islam permeates Bruneian life and painting a comprehensive picture of a society navigating its Islamic faith within the two pillars of Malay and Monarchy. Although Brunei’s established roots as a Malay Muslim sultanate date back to the 14th century, it was not until the late 1950s that the concept of a Malay Islamic monarchy was widely accepted, and subsequently elevated to a national philosophy. Against this backdrop, this volume sheds light on the particular status of Islam in the national philosophy and the nation in general. Chapters explore Islam’s role as the central pillar anchoring Brunei’s politics, economy, culture, and social norms: from iconic mosques to multilingualism to the spiritual ethos of the Negara Zikir (Zikir Nation), contributors delve into both the philosophical and practical dimensions of Islam's influence. Contributors also examine the historical Islamization process, the socio-religious significance of Bay’ah, and the linguistic expressions of Islamic identity. Arguably the first volume to explore Islam and its status and role within the ambit of MIB, the book will be of interest to scholars and postgraduate students in the fields of Islam, South East Asian religions, and South East Asian culture and society more broadly.