BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei Darussalam’s population reached an estimated 458,600 in 2025, reflecting a growth rate of 0.7 per cent, down from 1.1 per cent recorded in 2024, according to the latest Population Estimates report released by the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS) under the Ministry of Finance and Economy.
The data showed that males continued to outnumber females, accounting for 53.4 per cent of the population or 244,800 persons, while females comprised 46.6 per cent or 213,800 persons. This translates to a sex ratio of 114.5 males for every 100 females.
In terms of residency status, Brunei citizens formed the largest share at 76.7 per cent (351,700 persons). Permanent residents accounted for 5.8 per cent (26,500 persons), while temporary residents made up 17.5 per cent (80,400 persons) of the total population.
Geographically, the Brunei-Muara District remained the most populated area, accounting for 72.5 per cent of the population or 332,700 persons. This was followed by Belait District with 14.8 per cent (67,900 persons), Tutong District with 10.6 per cent (48,500 persons) and Temburong District with 2.1 per cent (9,500 persons).
The age structure indicates that the majority of the population falls within the working-age group. Individuals aged between 15 and 64 years comprised 72.3 per cent or 331,500 persons. Meanwhile, 19.8 per cent (90,800 persons) were below the age of 15, and 7.9 per cent (36,300 persons) were aged 65 years and above.
The median age of the population increased slightly to 32.8 years in 2025, compared to 32.4 years in the previous year, indicating a gradually ageing population.
By ethnic composition, Malays remained the dominant group, accounting for 73.5 per cent of the population or 337,200 persons. The Chinese community represented 9.7 per cent (44,500 persons), while other races made up 16.8 per cent (76,900 persons).
The Department of Economic Planning and Statistics noted that the full Population Estimates 2025 report, including methodology and detailed breakdowns, is available on its official website. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
