Despite having a foreign government, Brunei's importance started to rise again in 1929 when petroleum production began.

[2] By the end of 1905, Brunei had been reduced to just two tiny, independent enclaves in Sarawak, covering a total area of 5.765 square metres (62.05 sq ft).

[citation needed] In fact, had it not been for the British Government's reluctant intervention at this point, James Brooke would have completely engulfed the Sultanate.

In order to preserve the monarchy, Sultan Hashim requested British assistance in the internal administration of his nation.

Until 1959, successive Residents, who had originally been seconded from the Malayan Civil Service, were in charge of running Brunei.