Latest news in Brunei? September 25th, 2026

Recent developments and notable news surrounding Brunei around September 25, 2026 include:

• IMF Economic Assessment: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board concluded its 2026 Article IV consultation with Brunei Darussalam. The IMF projected Brunei’s real GDP growth at 2.3% for 2026, buoyed by the hydrocarbon sector and higher export revenues, while highlighting the continued need for non-hydrocarbon diversification and targeted fiscal reforms.

  International Monetary Fund

• Conclusion of CARAT Brunei 2026: Maritime forces from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the United States wrapped up the bilateral Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise in Bandar Seri Begawan. The week-long exercise focused on maritime security, South China Sea operations, and interoperability.

  U.S. Pacific Fleet+ 1

• Diplomatic Statements on Regional Tensions: Brunei’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement addressing escalating tensions in the Middle East, expressing solidarity with regional stability, urging the protection of civilian infrastructure, and reaffirming the importance of maritime passage under international law.

  Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• Cross-Border Financial Partnerships: Brunei’s Baiduri Bank entered into a strategic memorandum of understanding with Malaysia’s Affin Group to expand cross-border financial services, trade financing, and digital banking integration across the two markets.