Brunei Darussalam - The Abode of Peace

Brunei Darussalam is a small, vibrant, green and peaceful nation. Its peacefulness is a resonance of the name 'Darussalam' which is an Arabic literally meaning Abode of Peace. Conveniently located in the northern coast of the island of Borneo, the nation has enjoyed peaceful coexistence with is neighbors particular the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah as well as the Indonesion state of Kalimantan.

Historically, Brunei has a considerably colorful history. It began as a vassal state of the Srivijayan empire starting its life with the name of Poni. It later became the vassal state of the Majapahit empire before the embracing of Islam sometime in the 15th century. At its full glory, Brunei had control which spanned regions of modern day Sarawak, Sabah as well as some parts of the Sulu achipelago to name a few. In its decline, the Sultanate had lost a lot of its controlled lands and it is left with what lands that the Sultanate spans at present. Before its independence in 1984, Brunei spent almost a hundred years as a British administered state.

Brunei Tourist Attractions

What kind of guide would be complete without an overview of some of the country's sites of attraction right? Well to address that issue, we at Brunei Insider have compiled a shortlist of some of the major sites of interests in the Sultanate. Enjoy...


Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque was built in 1958 and since then it was renowned as being one of the most magnificent mosques in South East Asia. It stands as a symbol of the Sultanate’s faith in Islam. The mosque is open for visitors daily but visitors are advised to dress conservatively.







Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Known locally as the Kiarong Mosque, this holy piece of architecture is full of grandeur and is the largest in Brunei Darussalam. The mosque was built to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his majesty’s reign. The gold topped domes tower over landscaped gardens and fountains for a graceful and magnificent view. Either day or night, a visit to this regal place is a must for anyone. Situated in Kampong Kiarong, it is just a few kilometers from the capital.






Kampong Ayer (Water Village)

Kampong Ayer is a national heritage of Brunei Darussalam. Famed for its historical accounts dated as far back as the 16th century with Ferdinand Magellans visit. Referred by some as the ‘Venice of the East’, the village stands strong as proof of the nation’s success in maintaining its heritage.






Brunei Muzeum
The museum is 6.5 from the city centre and is a most distinctive piece of architecture along the Brunei River. Most of the museum pieces inside are unique and priceless items of Islamic Arts. Detailed work of ancient calligraphers is featured through a private collection of amazingly elaborate Holy Korans, ceramic ware, glasswares and carpets. A history of the oil industry of Brunei and Borneo ethnographic displays are also shown.














Royal Regalia Centre
Built in 1992 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam’s ascension to the throne, this museum contains a he collection of royal regalia from the grand royal chariot to a replica of the throne which His Majesty uses on state occasion. The centre also features some of the gifts from other countries including ancient obtained from other nations in the past such as China







The Sultan's Palace
Of all the magnificent buildings in the city centre, His majesty’s royal palace, the Istana Nurul Iman, is the most impressive. Probably the largest residential palace in the world, its vaulting roof, golden dome and tranquil riverside setting makes it a spectacular subject for photography. The palace is open to the public only during Hari Raya, when Bruneians and visitors have the opportunity to greet His Majesty and the Royal Family.


Well we cant really post up all of the good places to go to in the country you know. If you want to know about the other attractions then you'll need to go out there and ask about. Who knows maybe you'll find an unexpected treasure out there? =)

Brunei Special Occasions

Bruneians love celebrations, perhaps thats why there are a lot of celebrations going on every year and they're growing in number (annually!!). Apart from those typical celebrations that are also held in other countries, Brunei also has its own share of 'local' celebrations. Here is a list of a few of them, hit the link at the bottom of this post to have a look at the event calendar for the year. =)



The Sultan's Birthday
Celebrated every 15th of July, it is one of the most anticipated occasion of the year as this is one of the few chances where the common folk can meet up close with His Majesty the Sultan and for the lucky few perhaps get a handshake or maybe even a photo with the Sultan. Festivities generally run from early July to early August where there will be lots of stalls in selected places around the country as well as nightly live performances at selected venues.





The National Sports Festival
This is one of the anticipated events especially by the sport enthusiasts. This festival hosts a number of sporting games including the traditional Silat, table tennis as well as track and field events. In the few years since its inception, the event has managed to gain increased participation especially from the youth.






















For a list of the year's event calendar hit the link. Here

Getting Around Brunei

Hard to get around the country? Don't despair, here at Brunei Insider we have the solution for you. Just hit the links below to get the corresponding mode of transport that you would prefer. Cheers.


Boat - Link


Ground - Link


Air - Link

Health & Fitness

Health and fitness is a focus in any country in the world. Brunei is not left out in this one too. The nation boasts a large selection of medical health centres as well as fitness centres. Heres a list of some of them =)

Fitness Zone
This is certainly the place for those with major fitness issues. This place is probably the most renowned location for fitness facilities and services in town. With a large selection of products and services its a surprise that even with its world-class standards, its still fairly affordable for any member of society.





Joie de Vivre
Joie de Vivre is a ladies only aerobics studio and gym situated in Tanjong Bunut. The Joie provides various services including personal as well as location based fitness coaching.






Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC)
The JPMC is a Private Specialist Hospital in Brunei providing top-class medical service. It is situated in the famed Jerudong Park area along the shores of the South China Sea. Patients and visitors to the centre will enjoy a sense of tranquility and privacy from the soothing rhythm of waves and the quality healthcare provided by the medical staff. The centre also house a fully equipped Gym, swimming pool, sauna and steam room to name but a few.

These are just a few, feel free to browse this link for a list of other Health & Fitness centres.

Brunei Shopping

Who doesn't love shopping right? So does Bruneians. We sure do huge amounts of Shopping all year long. Why not? There are a large number of places to shopping all over the country from the largest to the smallest of places. Here, we'll throw a list of some of the best places to shop in town...


The Yayasan Complex
The Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex is the place to go if your thinking to find international brands or even some local products. It is undoubtedly the biggest mall in the country and added with its prime location - the Kampong Ayer at one end and the majestic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien on the other - it is one of the places to be at and thats not just for the shopping. =)


The Mall, Gadong
The Mall (that's right - THE MALL), is probably the most frequented mall in the nation at the moment. Its is practically swarming with shoppers all day every day any weather and in any occasion. The Mall not only serves for the shoppers though as it also houses one of the most luxurious hotels and outlets in the nation. Ultimately, this is a must stop for anyone.





The Seri Q-Lap Mall
Now, this place may not be as big as The Mall Gadong but it sure does what it is supposed to do. Whats that you say? Well, that is to make you shop =). The Seri Q-Lap was only recently opened a few years back but it has certainly gained momentum, give it some more time it will surely be one of the best places to be at in the country.





Well thats just a few of the places that could cater to your shopping needs, we wont spoil your fun by listing all of the places besides looking for the place for you to shop is half the fun right?