News In Brief

Independence from Britain to come to Brunei Sunday

Oil-rich Brunei wins its independence from Britain Sunday when a sultan - the 29th in a line reaching back to the 15th century - takes personal charge of the 2,225-square-mile state on the north coast of Borneo.

Chief Administrator Abdul Aziz said a traditional system of local headmen and an affectionate respect between Sultan Sir Muda Hassanal Bolkiah and his 205,000 subjects ensures that the people's needs will be fulfilled. There were no plans for elections or party politics. Prosperity resulting from $4 billion in annual gas and oil revenues has removed the threat of internal dissension, he said.