Brunei-China Ties Traced Back To Early 5th Century

Professor Liang Liji

Bandar Seri Begawan – Relations between Brunei and China can be traced back to as early as the 5th century.

Professor Liang Liji, a prominent Chinese historian and speaker at the Brunei History Seminar, said the Brunei-China ties were recorded in the Chinese account during the Tang Dynasty.

Professor Liang contributed his studies of the Malay world for more than half a century.

He noted that Brunei-China relations reached its peak during the 15th century.

The close ties brought mutual respect between the two nations, and most importantly, the two royal families.

The relations also had a deep impact on the socio-politic of Brunei and gave an advantage in the economical sector.

Professor Liang said that China had recognised Brunei as a sovereign kingdom.

During the Ming Dynasty, looking at the importance of Brunei to China, the Chinese government established a department to look after the affairs of its Muslim community.

“Sadly, the golden time could not be maintained due to the European intrusion and its colonialism’” the Chinese historian said.

He further said that today, the bilateral relations continue to blossom, especially after the heads of government exchange visits.

Meantime, one of the working papers during the seminar stated that no country in the world could isolate itself from making diplomatic relations with its neighbours and other countries.

For Brunei, since its independence in 1984, the Sultanate has been active in bridging the gap with its neighbours in the region. -- Courtesy of Radio Television Brunei 

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