5 Things to See Absolutely - Brunei, The Nation of Brunei

June 19, 2017

5 Things to See Absolutely in Brunei

Brunei, The Nation of Brunei

Brunei is a sovereign state located on the north coast of the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. The country is completely surrounded by the state of Sarawak, Malaysia. It is seperated into two parts by the Sarawak district of Limbang. Brunei is the only sovereign state completely on the island of Borneo. The remainder of the island's territory is divided between the nations of Malaysia and Indonesia.

Brunei gained its independence from the United Kingdom on 1 January 1984. Brunei transformed into an industrialized country. It has developed wealth from extensive petroleum and natural gas. In addition, Brunei has the second-highest Human Development Index among the Southeast Asian nations followed by Singapore.

5 Things to See

Istana Nurul Iman

The Istana Nurul Iman is the world’s largest residential palace in occupation with 1788 rooms. The 300-acre palace sits on a man made hill with a clear view of Kampong Ayer. Istana Nurul Iman is the residence of the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah since 1984 and it is open to the public three days in a year, on the second to fourth day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Omar Ali Saifuddie Mosque

The Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Mosque is an oasis of tranquility within the bustle of downtown Bandar. Completed in 1958 and named after the 28th Sultan of Burnei, it was built with the craftmanship that reflects classical Islamic architecture. The lagoon replicated of 16th century Mahligai or Royal Barge where religious ceremonies such as Holy Qur'an readings were staged during 1960s and early 1970s.

Royal Regalia Building

The Royal Regalia Building is located in the heart of Bandar Seri BEgawan. It was built to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of the Sultan's accession to the throne in 1992. The museum is home to a collection of Royal Regalia, including the royal chariot, gold and silver ceremonial armory and a replica of the throne, which is used by the Sultan on state occasions.

Timepiece Monument

Memorial Clock Monument built on July 11, 1959 to commemorate the visit of His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Yang Di-Pertuan Agung of Malaysia. This Monument is located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan to function as a 'Zero-Mile-Clock', it is used to indicate the starting point of distance between Bandar Seri Begawan and other places in Brunei.

Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery

The $3-million Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery was built to provide visitors a glimpse of Kampong Ayer's storied past while preserving part of Brunei's heritage. Five mini galleries within the building showcase the water village's history and origin, with handicraft and relics from bygone era also on display.