Brunei Darussalam Travel: Visitors Information

Billionth Barrel Monument

 

brunei Rafting adventures

Share the About Brunei Darussalam country,  is an easy and welcoming country for international travellers. The official language is Malay and English is widely spoken. As the nation enjoys a high standard of living, Brunei citizenship get good benefits, International goods and professional medical care are readily available.

Brunei Mangrove Boat

Visas
All visitors must be in possession of a valid passport. The visa you require will depend on your desired length of stay and the passport you hold.

For visits not exceeding 14 days, visas are not required for passport holders from: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Indonesia, Japan, Luxembourg, Maldives, Netherlands, Norway, Philippines, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Liechtenstein.

For visits not exceeding 30 days, visas are not required for passport holders from: Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, United Kingdom, with the right of abode in the United Kingdom New Zealand.

For visits not exceeding 30 days, visas will be issued on arrival for passport holders from: Australia

For visits not exceeding 3 months, visas are not required for passport holders from: United States. For more details, please contact your nearest Brunei Embassy or diplomatic representative.

Money (Local Currency Brunei)
Brunei dollars and cents

Currency Brunei Denominations
$1, $5, $10, $50, $100, $1000 and $10,000 notes.
1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents coins.


Brunei Banks
Baiduri Bank Berhad, Citibank N A,HSBC, Maybank, Overseas Union Bank (OUB), RHB Bank Berhad, Standard Chartered Bank, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD)

Banking Hours
9am to 3pm on weekdays
9am to 11am on Saturdays

Most banks handle travelers' cheques and currency exchange. They are all government approved for such transactions.

 

brunei sumboi sumboi

Postal and Banking Information in Brunei Darussalam

Brunei business hours :

Postal Offices

Operate from 7.45am to 4.30pm daily EXCEPT Fridays and Sundays.

On Fridays, the operating hours are from 8.00am to 11.00am and 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

Banking Hours and Locations
9.00am to 3.00pm on Weekdays (Mondays to Fridays)
9.00am to 11.00am on Saturdays
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Most Brunei banks handle travellers cheques and currency exchange rate.
The Singapore currency is on par with the Brunei dollar and is widely accepted here.

Citibank NA, Jln Sultan, BSB
Tel: (02) 243 983

Standard Chartered Bank, Jln Sultan, BSB
Tel: (02) 236 896

source
http://www.alloexpat.com/brunei_expat_forum/postal-and-banking-information-in-brunei-t1190.html

Brunei Darussalam : Kingdom, Culture & Lifestyle

 Brunei Tourist attraction

Information About Brunei, Brunei Darussalam is a nation without equal. Governed by the longest serving family Monarchy in the world, and financially secure because of it's oil and gas resources, Brunei is politically and financially stable. 

With Malay, Borneo native and Chinese traditions, a benevolent monarch, assimilation of modern technologies, an international outlook and Islamic religion at it's foundations, Brunei is a unique cultural and lifestyle experience. 
Brunei Darussalam Location on equatorial Borneo, at the geographic heart of Asia, Brunei's history and culture is intriguing, dynamic and an integral part in the evolution of modern Asia. Brunei share has preserved much of this brief history in it's museums and monuments.

The Brunei Darussalam travel to the museums, Royal Regalia and other attractions help bring this alive. 
Compact and uncongested, touring Brunei is easy. 
Destinations are close because of well developed road networks. 
Traffic is minimal, and we use boats for some tours; boats have been the transport standard for hundreds of years. 

Brunei has been changing rapidly since the mid 1970's, when the nation became a half owner in it's previously foreign owned oil and gas industry, and its income suddenly increased. 
In 1984, Brunei re-took full control of it's government administration from the British protectorate status that had helped preserve it's national integrity through the tumultuous earlier period of the 20th century. 

Advances in medical services, public health administration, education, roads, communication and commercial facilities during the past thirty years has created a modern nation.  

But Brunei's political and financial position has given the unique opportunity to choose a lifestyle that retains community and religious traditions regardless of the financial efficiency pressure which normally accompanies modernisation.  

Brunei's unique Monarchy remains the centre of governance. 
The small population of almost 400,000 has helped preserve this; with a close relationship between the Sultan and the people.   
Brunei Darussalam travel, The kampong Ayer Brunei water village of Bandar Seri Begawan is probably Asia's most outstanding example of  cultural heritage preservation amidst modern commercial development. It is the largest water village in the world, and still houses half the population of Brunei's capital. 

Seria Town

Sultan Birthday Arch

The  unique Brunei Kingdom and Culture tours around Bandar Seri Begawan take visitors to common and uncommon attractions and venues, with lunch beside the Brunei River. 
Special arrangement tours also visit other destinations in Brunei, such as the oil and gas operations 90 kms from the capital.  

The Lifestyle Tours in Temburong give visitors an insight into rural practices and traditional living, including longhouses. 
A visit to Brunei is not complete without a water based tour. 

The Brunei River Tour takes visitors to traditional sites and modern features along the river. The river is also how we also reach the water village, and Temburong. 
It's also the transport corridor to experience the mangroves and its abundant wildlife adjacent to the city. Native animals are not hunted for food around Bandar Seri Begawan so unlike other parts of Borneo, it's possible to see examples of Borneo's unique wildlife close to urban areas. 

The evening Mangrove Safari is a great way to experience the end of the day and see mangrove wildlife close the Sultan's Brunei palace, Sultan Brunei house . 

The  guides provide information to highlight the significance of each attraction and help visitors understand the unique character of Brunei. 

Brunei is totally different to anywhere else in Asia. 

A visit to Asia is not complete without experiencing the unique Kingdom and Culture  of Brunei Darussalam.

Source
http://www.bruneibay.net/

Negara Brunei Darussalam Country Profile

Information About Brunei Darussalam
Background: The Sultanate of Brunei's influence peaked between the 15th and 17th centuries when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines. Brunei Darussalam subsequently entered a period of decline brought on by internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate; independence was achieved in 1984. The same family has ruled Brunei for over six centuries. Brunei benefits from extensive petroleum and natural gas fields, the source of one of the highest per capita GDPs in the developing world.

Geography Brunei
Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
Geographic coordinates: 4 30 N, 114 40 E
Map references: Southeast Asia
Area: total: 5,770 sq km
water: 500 sq km
land: 5,270 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Delaware
Land boundaries: total: 381 km
border countries: Malaysia 381 km
Coastline: 161 km
Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 NM or to median line
territorial sea: 12 NM
Climate: tropical; hot, humid, rainy
Terrain: flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east; hilly lowland in west
Elevation extremes: lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
highest point: Bukit Pagon 1,850 m
Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, timber
Land use: arable land: 0.57%
permanent crops: 0.76%
other: 98.67% (1998 est.)
Irrigated land: 10 sq km (1998 est.)
Natural hazards: typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are rare
Environment - current issues: seasonal smoke/haze resulting from forest fires in Indonesia
Environment - international agreements: party to: Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Geography - note: close to vital sea lanes through South China Sea linking Indian and Pacific Oceans; two parts physically separated by Malaysia; almost an enclave of Malaysia

People Brunei

Population: 358,098 (July 2003 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 29.6% (male 54,118; female 51,902)
15-64 years: 67.6% (male 128,421; female 113,480)
65 years and over: 2.8% (male 4,804; female 5,373) (2003 est.)
Median age: total: 26.4 years
male: 27 years
female: 25.7 years (2002)
Population growth rate: 2% (2003 est.)
Birth rate: 19.68 births/1,000 population (2003 est.)
Death rate: 3.39 deaths/1,000 population (2003 est.)
Net migration rate: 3.75 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2003 est.)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.13 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.89 male(s)/female
total population: 1.1 male(s)/female (2003 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 13.5 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 9.71 deaths/1,000 live births (2003 est.)
male: 17.09 deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.3 years
male: 71.9 years
female: 76.82 years (2003 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.37 children born/woman (2003 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2001 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: less than 100 (2001 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Nationality: noun: Bruneian(s)
adjective: Bruneian
Ethnic groups: Malay 67%, Chinese 15%, indigenous 6%, other 12%
Religions: Muslim (official) 67%, Buddhist 13%, Christian 10%, indigenous beliefs and other 10%
Languages: Malay (official), English, Chinese
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 91.8%
male: 94.8%
female: 88.5% (2003 est.)

Government Brunei

Country name: conventional long form: Negara Brunei Darussalam
conventional short form: Brunei
Government type: constitutional sultanate
Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan
Administrative divisions: 4 districts (daerah-daerah, singular - daerah); Belait, Brunei and Muara, Temburong, Tutong
Independence: 1 January 1984 (from UK)
National holiday: National Day, 23 February (1984); note - 1 January 1984 was the date of independence from the UK, 23 February 1984 was the date of independence from British protection
Constitution: 29 September 1959 (some provisions suspended under a State of Emergency since December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984)
Legal system: based on English common law; for Muslims, Islamic Shari'a law supersedes civil law in a number of areas
Suffrage: none
Executive branch: chief of state: Sultan and Prime Minister Sir HASSANAL Bolkiah (since 5 October 1967); note - the monarch is both the chief of state and head of government
head of government: Sultan and Prime Minister Sir HASSANAL Bolkiah (since 5 October 1967); note - the monarch is both the chief of state and head of government
cabinet: Council of Cabinet Ministers appointed and presided over by the monarch; deals with executive matters; note - there is also a Religious Council (members appointed by the monarch) that advises on religious matters, a Privy Council (members appointed by the monarch) that deals with constitutional matters, and the Council of Succession (members appointed by the monarch) that determines the succession to the throne if the need arises
elections: none; the monarch is hereditary
Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Council or Majlis Masyuarat Megeri (a privy council that serves only in a consultative capacity; NA seats; members appointed by the monarch)
elections: last held in March 1962
note: in 1970 the Council was changed to an appointive body by decree of the monarch; an elected Legislative Council is being considered as part of constitutional reform, but elections are unlikely for several years
Judicial branch: Supreme Court (chief justice and judges are sworn in by the monarch for three-year terms)
Political parties and leaders: Brunei Solidarity National Party or PPKB in Malay [Haji Mohd HATTA bin Haji Zainal Abidin, president]; note - the PPKB is the only legal political party in Brunei; it was registered in 1985 but became largely inactive after 1988; it was revived in 1995 and again in 1998; it has less than 200 registered party members; other parties include Brunei People's Party or PRB (banned in 1962) and Brunei National Democratic Party (registered in May 1965, deregistered by the Brunei Government in 1988)

Political pressure groups and leaders: NA

International organization participation: APEC, ARF, ASEAN, C, ESCAP, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDB, IFRCS, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OIC, OPCW, UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador PUTEH ibni Mohammad Alam
FAX: [1] (202) 885-0560
telephone: [1] (202) 237-1838
chancery: 3520 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Gene B. CHRISTY
embassy: Third Floor, Teck Guan Plaza, Jalan Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan
mailing address: PSC 470 (BSB), FPO AP 96507
telephone: [673] (2) 229670
FAX: [673] (2) 225293
Flag description: yellow with two diagonal bands of white (top, almost double width) and black starting from the upper hoist side; the national emblem in red is superimposed at the center; the emblem includes a swallow-tailed flag on top of a winged column within an upturned crescent above a scroll and flanked by two upraised hands

Economy Brunei

Economy - overview: This small, wealthy economy encompasses a mixture of foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government regulation, welfare measures, and village tradition. Crude oil and natural gas production account for nearly half of GDP. Per capita GDP is far above most other Third World countries, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements income from domestic production. The government provides for all medical services and subsidizes rice and housing. Brunei's leaders are concerned that steadily increased integration in the world economy will undermine internal social cohesion, although it became a more prominent player by serving as chairman for the 2000 APEC (Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) forum. Plans for the future include upgrading the labor force, reducing unemployment, strengthening the banking and tourist sectors, and, in general, further widening the economic base beyond oil and gas.
GDP: purchasing power parity - $6.5 billion (2002 est.)
GDP - real growth rate: 3% (2002 est.)
GDP - per capita: purchasing power parity - $18,600 (2002 est.)
GDP - composition by sector: agriculture: 5%
industry: 45%
services: 50% (2001 est.)
Population below poverty line: NA%
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA%
highest 10%: NA%
Inflation rate (consumer prices): -2% (2002 est.)
Labor force: 143,400
note: includes foreign workers and military personnel; temporary residents make up about 40% of labor force (1999 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: government 48%, production of oil, natural gas, services, and construction 42%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 10% (1999 est.)
Unemployment rate: 10% (2001 est.)
Budget: revenues: $2.5 billion
expenditures: $2.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.35 billion (1997 est.)
Industries: petroleum, petroleum refining, liquefied natural gas, construction
Industrial production growth rate: 5% (2002 est.)
Electricity - production: 2.497 billion kWh (2001)
Electricity - production by source: fossil fuel: 100%
hydro: 0%
other: 0% (2001)
nuclear: 0%
Electricity - consumption: 2.322 billion kWh (2001)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2001)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2001)
Oil - production: 217,200 bbl/day (2001 est.)
Oil - consumption: 13,000 bbl/day (2001 est.)
Oil - exports: NA
Oil - imports: NA
Oil - proved reserves: 1.255 billion bbl (January 2002 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 315 billion cu m (January 2002 est.)
Agriculture - products: rice, vegetables, fruits, chickens, water buffalo
Exports: $3 billion f.o.b. (2000 est.)
Exports - commodities: crude oil, natural gas, refined products
Exports - partners: Japan 40.8%, South Korea 13.2, Thailand 12.3, Australia 9.3, US 8.3, Singapore 5.8, China 4.8 (2002)
Imports: $1.4 billion c.i.f. (2000 est.)
Imports - commodities: machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, chemicals
Imports - partners: Singapore 31.1, Japan 21.6, Malaysia 18.3, UK 6.2, Hong Kong 3.8, US 3.2 (2002)
Debt - external: $0
Economic aid - recipient: $4.3 million (1995)
Currency: Bruneian dollar (BND)
Currency code: BND
Exchange rates: Bruneian dollars per US dollar - 1.7906 (2002), 1.7917 (2001), 1.724 (2000), 1.695 (1999), 1.6736 (1998)
Fiscal year: calendar year

Communications Brunei

Telephones - main lines in use: 79,000 (1996)
Telephones - mobile cellular: 43,524 (1996)
Telephone system: general assessment: service throughout the country is excellent; international service is good to East Asia, Europe, and the US
domestic: every service available
international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean); digital submarine cable links to Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore (2001)
Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 10, shortwave 0 (1998)
Radios: 329,000 (1998)
Television broadcast stations: 2 (1997)
Televisions: 201,900 (1998)
Internet country code: .bn
Internet Service Providers (ISPs): 2 (2000)
Internet users: 35,000 (2002)
Transportation Brunei
Railways: total: 13 km (private line)
narrow gauge: 13 km 0.610-m gauge (2001 est.)
Highways: total: 1,712 km
paved: 1,284 km
unpaved: 428 km (1996)
Waterways: 209 km; navigable by craft drawing less than 1.2 m
Pipelines: crude oil 135 km; petroleum products 418 km; natural gas 920 km
Ports and harbors: Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait, Muara, Seria, Tutong
Merchant marine: total: 8 ships (1,000 GRT or over) 465,937 GRT/413,393 DWT
ships by type: liquefied gas 8
note: includes some foreign-owned ships registered here as a flag of convenience: UK 7 (2002 est.)
Airports: 2 (2002)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 1
over 3,047 m: 1 (2002)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 1 (2002)
Heliports: 3 (2002)

Military Brunei

Military branches: Land Forces, Navy, Air Force, Royal Brunei Police
Military manpower - military age: 18 years of age (2003 est.)
Military manpower - availability: males age 15-49: 110,888 (2003 est.)
Military manpower - fit for military service: males age 15-49: 63,966 (2003 est.)
Military manpower - reaching military age annually: males: 3,277 (2003 est.)
Military expenditures - dollar figure: $329.7 million (FY02)
Military expenditures - percent of GDP: 5% (FY02)

Transnational Issues Brunei

Disputes - international: Involved in dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam; Brunei established an exclusive economic fishing zone encompassing Louisa Reef in southern Spratly Islands in 1984 but makes no public territorial claim to the offshore reefs; claimants in November 2002 signed the "Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea", a mechanism to ease tension but which fell short of a legally binding "code of conduct"
Illicit drugs: drug trafficking and illegally importing controlled substances are serious offenses in Brunei and carry a mandatory death penalty

source :

http://www.alloexpat.com/brunei_expat_forum/brunei-country-profile-t8.html

Brief History Of Brunei Darussalam

Yayasan Hassanal Bolkiah Complex

brief History of Brunei Darussalam history
There is archaeological evidence that early modern humans were present in Borneo 40,000 years ago. These early settlers were later replaced by successive waves of Austronesian migrants, whose descendants form the many ethnic and cultural groups living in Borneo today, alongside more recent immigrants from China, Indonesia, the Philippines and India.

Interior in Brunei Palace

Early Borneo kingdoms were under the cultural, economic and political influence of larger Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms in the Indonesian archipelago. There is evidence of early trade with India and China dating as far back as the 6th century, with a rich trade in camphor, spices, precious woods and exotic jungle products in the area that is now modern-day Brunei.

The rise of the Sultans: The Empire of Brunei
Trade with the Arabian Peninsula and with Indian Muslim traders saw the introduction of Islam to Brunei. In 1405, Brunei’s monarch embraced Islam and ruled as Sultan Muhammad, founding a dynasty which continues today. Brunei’s monarchy has the distinction of being the oldest unbroken reigning dynasty in the world.

Brunei’s sovereignty peaked in the 15th and 16th centuries, when it controlled the whole of Borneo and parts of the Philippines. The empire’s vast wealth, derived from international commerce, created a strong impression on early European explorers. They returned to Europe with stories of gold, regalia and majestic ceremonies.

Europeans Arrive
In later centuries, declining trade and colonial intrusions eroded the size and influence of Brunei, especially after the 1839 arrival of James Brooke. A swashbuckling English adventurer, James Brooke was appointed governor, or Rajah, of Sarawak, after helping the Sultan put down a rebellion. However, he soon consolidated power and started expanding the territory under British control, creating his own dynasty of “White Rajahs” that ruled until World War II.

During their rule, the “White Rajahs” continued encroaching on Brunei’s territory, which was also under pressure from British trading companies which had already taken control of present-day Sabah state in Malaysia.

These and other internal disputes prompted the Sultan to accept British protection and control over external affairs. In 1906, Brunei submitted to a British Resident system, giving the British control over home affairs, except for customs and religion. Reduced to a fraction of its former size and wealth, Brunei saw a revival of its fortunes when oil was discovered in 1929. The resulting wealth was judiciously managed and sustained, even during the nation’s occupation by the Japanese during WWII. Following the war, it was the late Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, the true architect of modern Brunei, who set Brunei on its course to modernization.

Modern, Independent Brunei
Today’s Sultan, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, the 29th ruler of his line, led Brunei Darussalam to its independence from the British in 1984. During His Majesty’s reign, a fast-paced modernization program, building upon the nation’s oil wealth, has resulted in a noted improvement in quality of life for all Bruneians. Now leading the nation into the 21st century, His Majesty’s government is responsible for the booming construction and infrastructure expansions which have turned Brunei into one of Southeast Asia’s most developed nations. Attracting foreign investment, improving the nation’s human resources base, and tourism development are all measures that His Majesty and the government are promoting to prepare the nation for the challenges of the future, when oil and gas reserves will have been depleted and a diversified economy will be needed to maintain the high standards of living currently enjoyed by the Bruneian people

Source :
http://www.bruneitourism.com/

Dress Guidelines For Expat Teachers in Brunei School

 

As Brunei Darussalam is a Muslim country teachers should dress conservatively in schools so as not to offend local sensibilities and customs. The following suggestions and share are based on the Brunei Darussalam official government guidelines for teachers.

 

Brunei Female teachers should dress conservatively in schools at all times. They should not wear clothes that expose any part of their upper body either at the front or back and blouses with short sleeves should cover, as a minimum, the upper arms. Dresses and skirts should be mid-calf to ankle length. Blouses, dresses and skirts should not be transparent or semi-transparent and should not show undergarments.

Many female teachers, once they arrive, prefer to wear a traditional Baju Kurong costume. Muslim teachers are encouraged to wear a tudong or head scarf. Male teachers should wear smart long trousers with long sleeved shirts and tie. They should wear smart shoes with socks but not sandals. Malay Muslim teachers are encouraged to wear a Songkok and Cara Melayu. Some teachers prefer to wear a traditional long sleeved Malay style shirt.

In Belait More Mosques Needed

Kg Masin Mosque would be considered to accomodate the increasing number of worshippers, 

especially during Friday prayers. 

Picture; BT/Hanaffi Hidup 

About Islam in Brunei Darussalam, The need to build more mosques and facilities was brought up during the ninth sitting of the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting yesterday.

LegCo representative from Belait District Zone One Brunei Darussalam,Yang Berhormat Hj Mohd Shafiee Ahmad questioned why there were fewer mosques in Belait compared to Tutong when Belait had a population of over 60,000 and it has the second largest population behind Brunei-Muara District.

According to the YB, Brunei-Muara District has 54 mosques, Tutong District has 24 mosques, Temburong has eight and Belait District has 10 mosques.

"Is it because there are not many Muslims residing in Belait or is the number decreasing is it fewer than in Tutong and Temburong?", he asked.

However, he commended the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) for the new mosque to be built at Kg Lumut Satu Brunei Darussalam.

In response, Religious Affairs Minister, Yang Berhormat Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Pg Hj Abd Rahman said that the number of mosques in the country as mentioned by YB Hj Mohd Shafiee was incorrect as there was actually 114 mosques in the country which should include suraus and prayer halls.

Penghulu of Mukim Telisai, Yang Berhormat Hj Ramli Hj Lahit said steps should be taken to better equip mosques.

Speaking during the meeting, the LegCo representative from Tutong District Zone Two said, "Looking back on His Majesty's titah in 2007, in conjunction with the monarch's 61st birthday, amongst what was said was that any agencies that still apply or use rules or processes that could slow down achievements and obstruct or impede efficient services, then these agencies should change their views or ways."

"On the last issue, the design and building of mosques should reflect the beauty and grace of Islam, and the design should be based on Islamic concepts, especially the design of the dome."

"Consideration should also be taken into providing a reading room, office for imams, a place to manage funerals, a store, an ablution area for men and women, a female prayer room or area, a hearse or funeral car, sufficient parking spots and a place to perform sacrificial ceremonies (during Hari Raya Aidil Adha)."

He was grateful that funding for the installation of CCTVs for mosques was mentioned in the minister's speech. He asked if the funding was also to include the installation of a high-quality PA system.

The Minister of Religious Affairs in his reply said, "The building of such mosques are already in MoRA's plan as now we have to not only build a mosque but also consider what should come with the mosque. InsyaAllah, future mosques will come with even better facilities. A budget of $100 million has been allocated to build more prominent mosques."

However, he stressed that not all mosques will be built to stand out. Mosques in rural areas cannot be compared to those in more populated areas.

Yang Berhormat Hj Jumat Akim, LegCo representative from Brunei-Muara District Zone Four said that with the funding of $251.18 million, MoRA will be able to carry out various strategic plans and projects.

He commended the ministry on the completion of two big mosques in Zone Four, namely the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Mosque in Kg Kilanas and Pengiran Muda 'Abdul Mateen in Mulaut.

He suggested that the constructions ofKg Tanjung Bunut Mosque, Kg Tarap Bau Mosque and Kg Lupak Luas Mosque to be speeded up.

" I also suggest an expansion of the Lumapas Mosque or to construct a new one."

YB Hj Jumat then questioned when the Kg Batong Mosque could be used since it was constructed at the same as the other mosques he mentioned.

"The Kampong Masin Mosque should also be given attention as there is an issue of an increasing number of congregants attending the Friday prayers leading to some having to pray outside the mosque using tents."

The minister in his response said that the Kg Tanjung Bunut Mosque would be built with the existing mosque.

"However, in the process of building the new mosque, a cabin-like box will be made to fit 40 to 50 people for praying purposes while waiting for completion."

On having a mosque in Kg Tarap Bau, the minister said that a study would be conducted to see if it was suitable to build a mosque there.

On the Lumapas Mosque, the minister said that a project to expand the mosque was in the pipeline. He also said Kg Batong Mosque would be able to be used once a substation had been built.

"The case of there being too many congregants at the Kampung Masin Mosque will be addressed straight away and an expansion will be considered," the minister added.

LegCo member representing Belait District Zone Two, Yang Berhormat Hj Mohd Yusof Dulamin expressed the hope that among the seven new mosques to be built, one would be constructed at Kg Mumong. 

The Head Village of Kg Mumong said that it had long been a dream of the people of the village with a population of more than 8,500, which exceeds the number of people living in the Temburong District, to have a mosque.

The Religious Affairs Minister replied that the building of a mosque in Kg Mumong was a current project.

By ELEENA TEOH-BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN-the Brunei Times

Source :

http://www.bt.com.bn/legco/2013/03/20/more-mosques-needed-especially-belait

The Expats Say About Brunei Darussalam

The Brunei expats share their opinion about living in Brunei Darussalam collect from CfBt site.

Here they are Expat Life in Brunei say :

Ann Baillie says :

“It is a beautiful, peaceful, friendly country – unique in many ways. At Brunei school, the local colleagues are a joy to work with and the students are respectful and pleasant. I feel extremely lucky to be able to call Brunei ‘home.”

Ann Baillie does in her holiday in Brunei :

“Lots to do here for a family. Outdoor activities – sports, beaches, swimming. Eating out, visiting friends, cinema.There are many places in SE Asia to visit from Brunei. We often just relax and stay in Brunei to make the most of the beautiful places on our doorstep. Beautiful unspoilt rainforest and beaches here.”

Gerard Brennan says :

“Pay, cheap petrol, no tax, no sales tax, you can work and save and get ahead.

Interesting Malay culture and Chinese culture. Friendly local culture.

Brunei is a safe peaceful culture. It's safe to go out day and night. Brunei is not plagued with alcohol and drug problems.

Interesting jungle environment and attractive city and stunning mosques.

Good local clubs for sport and social activity. Swimming club, badminton, running. I enjoy running at Tungku Beach and running in the jungle. I also swim in the sea and the pool.

Lots of great Indian, Malay, Chinese and Thai restaurants (and Western ones). We can eat a great meal for BND$20-$25 for three.

Good fast roads to get around on.

I have a very friendly staff at my school including both expatriate and local staff.”

Gerard Brennan does in his holidays in Brunei :

“Go to the beach, shopping, dining out, socialise with friends, go to the club, go running in the jungle or at the beach, swimming and playing badminton, reading, relax.

We have been to Malaysia and Indonesia and plan to visit the Philippines and Singapore in the holidays. We have been to Bali for two weeks, Miri and the Niah Caves for a weekend, Kota Kinabalu and Labuan Island.

In Brunei we have done the river tour twice, including Kampung Ayer Brunei. We visit Muara and Tungku beaches regularly. We have also got to Jame 'Asr and the Saifuddien Mosques, the museum, the Empire Hotel, Bukit Shahbandar, and have caught the ferry to Temburong. We have also visited Tutong, Kuala Belait, and Labi wilderness area.

It's great that these places are so affordable and easy to get to.”

Dave Emerton says :

“Safe & Relaxed lifestyle, tropical climate, healthy environment – great place to bring up kids.”

Dave Emerton  does in his holidays in Brunei :

“I spend a lot of time at home gardening and cleaning the pool, relaxing with family and friends, dinners and barbecues. I have also a lot more time here for hobbies and I have developed an interest in Aquaponics and keep tropical fish. I have a lot more leisure time to spend with my family than I would at home and life is not as hectic as it is in Australia.

Since we have been in Brunei we have travelled to Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and explored areas of interest in and around Brunei. Marking & preparation can usually be completed in school time so that I don’t need to bring school work home in the holidays as I often did in Australia.”

Simon Gleeson says :

“It is in a very good location for see parts of Asia. The petrol is very cheap, so you don’t have to worry about spending the BND$20 to fill the tank. The highways and most main streets are 2 lanes each direction with handy U-turning bays. Most beaches are quiet and peaceful.”

Simon Gleeson  does in his holidays in Brunei :

“My wife and I go walking around the jungle paths, along beaches, visiting friends, watching cheap DVDs, and there is always shopping.

In Brunei you actually get holidays, in New Zealand I worked for 3 years and spent the holidays planning for the next term and never had enough money for holidays, but here we have spent the last 3 holidays in 4-5 star resorts in Bali, Indonesia; Phuket, Thailand; and Penang, Malaysia.”

Ian Wiseman says :

“It is a great lifestyle for my family – I am here with my wife and my two young sons.”

Ian Wiseman does in his holidays in Brunei :

“I take my boys surfing, I have learnt to sail, I go to the gym, I swim, I play golf, I study (I completed a Masters degree in my first two years), I eat out a lot more than in NZ, I spend good time with my family.

I try to go home to NZ each December with the family; I have been for two surfing holidays in Bali / Indonesia. I am planning to go Kite Surfing in Vietnam next year. Also on the cards is more sailing with the family.” 

Cheryl and Jamie Hutchinson say :

“The relaxed lifestyle, the food, extensive travel opportunities, the people and the children we teach.”

Cheryl and Jamie Hutchinson  do in their holidays in Brunei :

“Play music, sport, yoga classes, sing in a choir, run on the Hash House Harriers and
Travel.”

Martin Jackson says :

“The easy going lifestyle.”

Martin Jackson does in his holidays in Brunei :

“Play with my young son. Play tennis, cricket and golf. Go to the gym, play guitar, harmonica and sing in a rock and blues band.

Visit nearby countries and Australia and Europe.”

 Shantal Jones says :

“I love the work life balance. I am the single parent to a 7 year old son. Back home I had to drop him at before school care at 7.30 each morning and would not be able to pick him up from afterschool care till close to 5 each day. We would get home just in time for me to see him tired and grumpy at the end of a long day. We would have about two hours together during which I would have to rush about cooking dinner and helping him with homework. Here, because classes are finished at 12.30 I am able to collect him from school myself most days, (there are occasional afterschool meetings, but I am able to work my stay-backs at school on the days that my son has afterschool sports). I also have an amah who lives with us and does all the cleaning, washing, ironing and some of the cooking, thus, we get several quality hours together every afternoon and evening. Settling in here has been very easy thanks to a large and supportive expat community, and very welcoming locals.”

Shantal Jones does in his holidays in Brunei :

“We are members at the RBA club, and my son and I go down there a lot. There is a small gym that I use and I regularly attend exercise classes and there is a big outdoor pool that we swim in. There are also badminton, squash and tennis courts.

My son usually does one or two extracurricular activities though his school and this term he is involved in Lego mechanics, rugby and Kapa Haka through school and is taking swimming lessons and playing touch at the RBA Brunei!

I also “Hash” on a Tuesday night. This involves running/walking though the jungle with a bunch of other women following papers - its loads of fun and a great way to get out into the jungle in a safe way.

People tend to socalise at other peoples houses and there are lots of gatherings to watch the rugby or league, or for a bbq etc. There are several borders to Malaysia that are close by, so it’s possible to pop across there on the weekends.

We have been here since March and so far we have done a “road trip” around Sabah (northern Borneo). It was amazing, we stayed in a Long House, saw the tip of Borneo, visited Mt Kinabalu and on turtle island got to see a giant turtle laying her eggs. The following holidays we spent a week enjoying the bright lights and big city of Kuala Lumpur and during our Christmas break we are off to Thailand for 3 weeks. Long weekends have also allowed us to check out Labuan (a Malaysian island an hours boat ride away) and Miri.”

 

 Janet Locke says:

“Most of the students are lovely. It’s great to have free time in the afternoons and lots of holidays every year to take advantage of the great places to visit in SE Asia.”

Janet Locke does in his holidays in Brunei :

“I play a lot of tennis, some volleyball, go to the gym on my way back from school, walk on the beach, read, catch up with friends and plan my next holiday!

I have been back to the UK twice, and back to Brazil. Last year I went diving in Sipidan, visited orang-utan sanctuaries and chilled out on some great beaches. This year I have been to Vietnam, diving in Phi Phi and shopping in Bangkok.”

 Su Lone says :

“It's a friendly and safe environment for my daughter to grow up in. I enjoy my job and feel I am making a difference in the classroom, where I teach. My daughter found it very easy to settle into the International school system at ISB (International School Berakas). Its an accepting community based type of environment with lots to offer all students. She is in grade 9 at the moment. I can save some money for my retirement.”

Su Lone does in his holidays in Brunei :

“I have learnt to scuba dive, enjoy my gardening, and am an active member in the local book club. The dive boat goes out every weekend and dinner parties and socializing is easy and accessable. Eating out is cheap and the variety is extensive, ranging from Thai, Indian, Chinese, Nonya, Indonesian, Pakistani, Korean, Japanese and Western meals. There are Pizza Huts and McDonalds Brunei as well. Hashing or just going for walks in the rainforest is a lovely experience. There are gyms, saunas, massage therapists and beauty parlors to pamper yourself in as well as aerobics, pilates and yoga and dancing classes to go to. The Music Society provides entertainment and active participation for those so inclined. My daughter learns tap, jazz and ballet. For the childern there are most of the clubs that are offered in Brisbane eg, swimming , gymnastics, tennis, football, netball. Musical instruments can be learnt by all ages. I've also learnt to play the piano here.

have travelled vastly in SE Asia as well as further a field to New Zealand, Egypt and the UK. My daughter and I have gone snorkelling and scuba diving in Bali and Malaysia (KK) as well as managing trips home to Brisbane at least once a year!”

John Maundrell says :

“The climate and the life style.”

John Maundrell  does in his holidays in Brunei :

“Tennis; windsurfing; gardening; jungle walks; bird watching; socialising with other ex-pats.

My wife returns to the UK once a year, whereas I go back only once every three to four years. We usually travel to Sarawak, Sabah or Singapore or remain in Brunei during the shorter holidays, then spend most of December on the island of Boracay in The Philippines where we practise windsurfing and meet up with friends who go there every year.”

 Jason McCorrister says :

“First off, Brunei saved my life! I was super stressed back home. I was working 12-hour days, sometimes six or seven days a week just to make ends meet. My wife had to work too and we were missing out on our son’s childhood. He was two years old and going to day care eight hours a day.

Brunei gave me my life back. It gave us both time to enjoy our son. I love having more time with my family and being able to live on a single income.

I also enjoy the holidays, the free time, my classes, my co-workers, The Empire Hotel, horse-back riding lessons, the beaches, the RBA Brunei club, the low cost of living, light traffic, quick commutes, travel opportunities, the year-round warm climate, and the utter peacefulness.

Also, you cannot underestimate the benefits of having a maid. Our maid is a huge help. She helps with the cooking, cleaning, driving, laundry, and childcare. This gives us even more free time to enjoy life.

Brunei has also given us financial stability. We didn’t come here to make it rich, but we can save some money each month whereas at home we were losing ground even with the two of us working. Here, we have financial stability and an amazing lifestyle. If we cut expenses, we could save more but we want our son to take full advantage of the opportunities here.

Also, we are very happy with ISB, one of the international schools here. Like most things, you will hear a lot of different opinions. In my experience, though, it is quite good and my son actually likes going to school each day. He is in grade one and he has a teacher and a teacher’s assistant in his class. The teachers have really tapped into student motivation through rewards and he’s doing very well. He has a small group of classmates from different nationalities in his class. He is learning and he is happy.”

Jason McCorrister does in his holidays in Brunei :

“I like to go swimming, go for walks in the park, read books, go out to the movie theatre (a movie+popcorn+Coke is $7 CDN!) and surf the Internet. I plan to join the Yacht Club to learn how to sail and we like to take trips nearby to cheap destinations like Malaysia.

My six-year-old son is very busy. He is taking weekly private piano lessons, swimming lessons, and horseback riding lessons. Other kids his age visit for play dates. On Fridays, he plays football with a local team and we go swimming. For fun, he also enjoys a Montessori program on Saturday mornings.

We continue our free time activities, but we also like to travel nearby where the whole family can enjoy a nice hotel resort with pool and breakfast for $100BND ($70CDN). We went to Singapore last March and we are going to Kuala Lumpur in December. That’s a pretty good year I think.”

 Naeem Meer says :

“The people; the culture; the security and stability; and the wonderfully peaceful way of life.”

Naeem Meer does in his holidays in Brunei :

“I play golf, go swimming and spend time holidaying in neighbouring countries.

Holiday to nearby destinations. Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore are all in close proximity to Brunei. Holidays are normally spent at resorts on islands in these countries.”

 Tania Jo Murphy says :

“Everything I like in Brunei.”

Tania Jo Murphy does in his holidays in Brunei :

“Wow! Go out to eat… Visit people… walk along the beach (which is no more than 3 minutes from anyone’s house here in KB). … my children have play groups…. Go to the Panaga Club to swim, eat, play, whatever…. Generally have a great time.

Explore other countries! Tickets to neighbouring countries are great value so it makes travel, even for a family, value for money and fantastic. So far we have taken holidays in Penang, KL, KK, Kucing, Singapore and we have returned to OZ a few times.”

 Judy Steele says :

“There are so many things I like about Brunei, but if I had to pick one I would say the people here make this a wonderful place to be. The Bruneians are friendly, courteous and hospitable, and I have been welcomed by them to so many occasions such as engagements, weddings, concerts and Hari Raya celebrations.
Also, Brunei itself has many attractions, not least that it is a very peaceful and comfortable place to live.”

Judy Steele does in his holidays in Brunei :

“I belong to the Panaga Club where I use the gym every day and go swimming two or three times a week. There’s also a very good restaurant there where I sometimes go to eat with friends. Other than that, I spend a lot of time at home, pottering in the house or garden. In the evenings I usually have a walk along the beach.

While I’ve been in Brunei I’ve visited Thailand twice, and the UK once. This time I’m going to India. I stayed in Brunei for the other two holidays when a friend came to visit and we drove to Kota Kinabalu in Sabah for a few days. When we get a long weekend I usually go to Miri or Labuan to relax.”

 Alex Theuma says :

“The lifestyle and the cost of living!!”

Alex Theuma does in his holidays in Brunei :

“Free time……play basketball, go fishing, visit friends and generally relax.

Travel…I am working my way in a spiral outwards from Borneo…. Have visited many temples, eaten different dishes, fished some fantastic waters, met some great people.”

So why wait to visit Brunei Darussalam the coolest place in the world.

Festivals In Brunei Darussalam

Sultan Brunei

About Festival in Brunei Darussalam Country,  are always celebrated with colour, enthusiasm and happiness. 

Young and old from different races come together in a spirit of unity that we are justifiably proud of.

We invite you to join us, and enjoy the unique traditions that have been passed down to us by preceeding generations.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri

Hari Raya is a time for celebration after the fasting month of Ramadhan.

 Prayers are held in the early morning of the first day at every mosque in the country.

 This day is usually an occasion for. The second day normally means open house; an invitation for all to visit. Special festive dishes are made The Brunei traditional food,  including ketupat (rice cakes), satay (beef and chicken kebabs), rendang (spicy marinated beef) and many others.

His Majesty the Sultan also throws his doors open to the people at the Istana Nurul Iman. 

This gives the people and visitors a chance to meet His Sultan Majesty and other members of the Royal Family, in order to wish them Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri. This is defintely an offer which should not be missed. When visiting you should dress conservatively. 

Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day

The formation of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces is commemorated every year on the 31st of May, and the event usually takes place at the Taman Haji Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien in the heart of the city. 

It consists of a military parade and displays, such as a parachuting show or battle demonstration. In other districts, units of the armed forces organise local parades and displays for the public. 

Hari Raya Aidiladha

This is also known as Hari Raya Koran. It marks the time when Muslims embark on the Haj, or holy pilgrimage to Mecca. 

The usual practice - for those who can afford it - is to sacrifice goats and cows. The meat is then distributed to relatives, friends and those who are less fortunate. 

His Majesty the Sultan's Birthday 15th of July

This joyous occasion is one of the most important events in the national calendar, with events and festivities taking place across the whole country. 

It usually starts when the people gather at the Taman Haji Sir Muda OmarAli Saifuddien, in the centre of Bandar Seri Begawan. 

His Majesty meets his subjects there and delivers a titah, or speech, to mark the occasion. 

Afterwards there is an investiture at the Istana Nurul Iman and, for the next two weeks or so, a series of processions, parades and celebrations. 

Fireworks displays take place and night markets - pasar malam - open up to sell food and drinks to the crowds. 

Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad

This occasion is better known in Brunei as Mauludun Nabi SAW. Muslims gather at the Taman Haji Sir Oman Ali Saifuddien to honour the occasion.

There are readings from the Holy Koran and an address on Islam from the Ministry of reliroys Affairs to open the function. His Majesty the Sultan also gives a speech and then, along with other members of the Royal Family, leads a procession on foot through the main streets of Bandar Seri Begawan Brunei. 

The Prophet's birthday is also celebrated at the same time in other parts of the country, with lectures, religous functions and other activities. 

Chinese New Year

This festival is celebrated by the Chinese community and lasts two full weeks. It begins with a reunion dinner on the eve of the celebration which, traditionally, all members of the family attend. 

Open house is declared and everyone is invited to feast on sumptuous spreads of food and drink. Unmarried youngsters are given 'ang pow' - gifts of money in little red packets. 

Christmas Day

Although not celebrated on a wide scale, Christmas Day is nevertheless a joyous and colourful occasion, well received by the nation. It is centred on Bandar Seri Begawan and the Belait District, where the greatest concentrations of Christmas expatriates live. They also hold "open house" to entertain their friends and colleagues. 

When Visiting Pulau Selirong

So last saturday! 16/3/2012 I WENT TO PULAU SELIRONG! with some of the teacher and student from my school! SMSAB! we are represent from AR-RIZQ company (i'm not sure if that spells right) it's one of our CCA or school activity. 

sooooo we have to arrived at Waterfront Bandar before 8 oclock in the morning!  which is erghhh. why all activity should be in the morning?! so back to the story, we all have to start moving to pulau selirong around 815 using a big boat, NOT HUGE! but big, like elephant big, that enough for less than 30 people. sooo it takes around one hour to arrived there but make it one hour and the half cause we are stuck for a while cause beli minyak dulu and because of "aing tuhur" yeah that what people keep saying that time. so sampai saja disana, we go to the forest ranger supaya dapat tell us something about that place and also keeping us safe from any animal sekirannya ada but in that time nadalah, thank god. then after atu kami pun jalan, naik boat ketempat yang people selalu melawat. guess what distracting me in the boat? THE FOREST RANGER GUN! it was m-16 i guess.

IT WAS DAMN COOL! LIKE FREAKING EPIC + POWER RANGER EPIC! macam waaah cematu panya gun in real life selalunya liat arah pc saja, COD GAMER! eh eh, then after atu kami pun turun arah this place, we walked on the jambatan around half an hour while gambar gambar the beauty of nature and we expect to see some animal but nada lah time atu, maybe pasal kami riuh rendah atu jua. 

BUT WE HAVE FUN! and i talked to the forest ranger personally, katanya if nada urang banyak ni Orang Utan and other animal yang siuk diliat. but BADLUCK. satu ekor beruk pun aku tak tengok. so i just take a picture of trees, plant and stuff cause i'm in charge of photography when im with the company. but make sure if everyone is going there, bring a drink cause disana you will get dehydrated cause of perjalanan jauh and you will sweat like a pig. so after that, kami pun balik but before that kami hantar the forest ranger dulu tempat kami ambil diorang tadi and thanks them cause guide us and lead us when disana. then time balik, we also round kampung air sekajap and saw the villager and stuff. and yeah i'm gonna post the picture soon, hopefully! cause all the camera and memory card are not with me! sooo thats all! 

YOU GUYS HAVE TO GO THERE! IF YOU LOVE NATURE! CAUSE IT WAS INTERESTING PLACE TO SIGHT SEEING AND ALSO BURN YOUR CALORIES HEUHEUHEUHEU.  

so BYE! KEEP SMILING!

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