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BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

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BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Brunei Darussalam is situated on the north-west coast of the island of Borneo, between east latitudes 1140 and 04’ and 110 23’ and north latitudes of 40 00’ and 50 05’.

It is divided into four districts; Brunei Muara (570.7 square kilometres); Tutong (1,166 square kilometres); Belait (2,727 square kilometres); and Temburong (1,288 square kilometres).

The country resumed full independence on January 1, 1984 where the National Day is celebrated every February 23.

CapitalBandar Seri Begawan is based in the Brunei-Muara district. Total land area of the capital is 100.36 square kilometres.

Area Total land area is 5,765 square kilometres with a coastline of about 161 kilometres.

PopulationThe population is estimated at 406,200 people (2009) with 57 per cent are aged from 20 – 54 years old.

Majority of the population are Malays with an estimated of 269,400 people, followed by

Chinese with 44,600 people and 92,200 people comprising of other minor groups.

The most populous district is Brunei-Muara with an estimated 283,300 people; followed by the Belait district:

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67,100 people; Tutong district: 45,700 people; and 10,100 people for the Temburong district. Official religionThe official religion is Islam. However, other religions are also practised.

Official languageMalay is the official language but English is also widely spoken.

ClimateBrunei Darussalam has an equatorial climate, a uniform temperature, high humidity and heavy rainfall.

CurrencyThe local currency is the Brunei Dollar which is issued at denominations of $10,000; $5,000; $1,000; $500; $100; $50; $25; $20; $10; $5; and $1 notes. Coinage is issued at 50, 20, 10 and 5 cent denominations.

It is pegged to the value of the Singapore Dollar and both currencies can be used in Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.

TimeBrunei Darussalam is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Meridian Time (GMT).

VegetationSeventy eight per cent of the country’s total land area is covered by forests with 40 per cent of the land is gazetted Forests Reserve.

Main industryPetroleum and gas has fuelled the nation’s economy for the past 80 years and more. The industry has come a long way from the very first commercial find in Seria of the Belait District in 1929.

A milestone was achieved in 1991 when the Seria field produced its billionth barrel and a monument was built near the original site of Well No.1 to mark the achievement. The Billionth Barrel Monument was officially opened by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on July 18, 1991.

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National carrierRoyal Brunei Airlines (RBA) is the national carrier established on November 18, 1974.

It is an independent corporation wholly owned by the government of Brunei Darussalam.

RBA provides scheduled services across Asia, the Middle East, Australasia and the United Kingdom.

As an added convenience to its passengers, the airline has code-share agreements with Thai Airways International, Malaysia Airlines, British Midland, Philippines Airlines and Dragon Air of Hong Kong, allowing passengers to coordinate flights for seamless travel to a wider choice of destinations.

Entry Checkpoints:Airport: Brunei International Airport is the nation’s sole airport. It is located in Berakas, about 10 to 15 minutes away from the capital.

Ferry Services and Immigration Control Post:Serasa Teminal: Located in Muara Town, about 25 minutes from the capital. You can take ferry services from here to the Malaysian town of Labuan, Sabah. The journey is estimated to take around 45 minutes to an hour.

Kuala Lurah Immigration Control Post : Located in Brunei-Muara District about 25 minutes from the capital. This control post is a gate connecting Brunei Darussalam to the Malaysian town of Limbang, Sarawak.

Labu Immigration Control Post: Located in Temburong District. This control post is a gateway connecting Brunei Darussalam to Malaysia’s Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.Sungai Tujoh Immigration Control

Post: Located in Belait District. This control post is a gateway connecting Brunei Darussalam to Malaysian town of Miri, Sarawak.

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TelecommunicationsThere are various telecommunications services offered in Brunei Darussalam by three service providers; Telekom Brunei Berhad(TelBru), DST Communications and B.Mobile Communications Sdn Bhd.

Local calls cost 3 cents per minute and national calls cost 20 cents per minute.

For local calls, direct dial the local number. For national calls, dial the area codes 2 (for Brunei-Muara District); 3 (for Belait District); 4 (for Belait District) or 5 (for Temburong District) followed by the number.

International calls by reverse charge, dial 01. For direct international calls, dial 00 followed by the country code, area code and the number.

A number of economical telephone cards ranging from $5 above are also available.

Wi-fi and hotspots are widely available at various dining outlets and commercial areas.

Mobile modem and router using a High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) or 3G (Third Generation) Mobile Telephony Communication Protocol in high speed are also available in Brunei.

Current HSDPA deployment in Brunei Darussalam support downlink speed of up to 7.2 Megabits per second.

NewspapersPelita Brunei is the official government newspaper while Borneo Bulletin, The Brunei Times and Media Permata are the three leading privately-run newspapers. A number of foreign newspapers and magazines are also available.

Radio and TelevisionThere are four channels RTB1, RTB2, RTB3, RTB4 and five radio networks run by the government through the Department of Radio and Televisyen Brunei (RTB). While one radio network is owned by a private telecommunication company. Foreign channels are also available through private cable television network Kristal-Astro.

BanksAmCapital (B) Sdn Bhd Baiduri Bank BerhadBICB Capital Sdn Bhd

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Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD)CitibankHongKong & Shanghai

Bank Corporation (HSBC)MaybankRHB Bank BerhadStandard Chartered BankTabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB)United Overseas Bank

Credit cards are accepted at hotels and selected shops and restaurants. Most accepted credit cards are Visa and Master but some also accept American Express.

National CelebrationsNational Day - February 23rd

His Majesty‘s Birthday – July 15th

Royal Brunei Armed Forces anniversary – May 31st

Brunei Darussalam also celebrates: New Islamic Year (Hijrah), Maulidur Rasul, Isra Mikraj, First Day of Ramadhan, Nuzul Al-Quran, Hari

Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Raya Aidiladha, New Year (January 1st), Chinese New Year, and Christmas. These days are

announced as public holidays.

Emergency callsAmbulance – 991Police – 993Fire & Rescue – 995Search & Rescue – 998

HotlinesWater – 140Electricity – 144/145Health line – 2384234Flight Info - 2331747

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Medical ServicesThe Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha General Hospital (RIPAS) is the main referral hospital. It is about five to 10 minutes drive from the capital.

The hotline is 224 2424.

Government hospitals can also be found at the other three districts. There are also two private hospitals.

For convenience, 14 government health centres are available throughout the nation. Private clinics are also widely available.

Driving PermitsBrunei Darussalam recognises international driving permits issued under the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic.

TransportationsBruneians drive on the left side of the road. The wearing of seat belts for drivers and front passengers is compulsory.

Public TransportationsTaxi Services – There are taxi services available should you wish to hire one. For reservations, please contact: 222 2214 or 222 6853.

The taxis are mostly available in the capital. While there is a surcharge fee for taxi rides from 11.00pm to 6.00am.

Taxis are also available at the Brunei International Airport.

For inquiries on destination fares, you may call the Land Transport Department at 245 1979 during the office hours.

Bus Routes – There are six bus routes operating around Bandar Seri Begawan:

• Central Line – runs every 15 minutes and stops at Brunei

International Airport, Post Office, Government offices, Terrace Hotel, Sheraton Utama Hotel, Youth Centre, Arts and Handicraft Centre, Brunei Museum and the Malay Technology Museum.

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Circle Line• – runs every 20 minutes and stops at RIPAS Hospital, Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Gadong Wet Market, Centrepoint in Gadong, Government offices, Immigration and National Registration Department/Labour Department, the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, Islamic Dakwah Centre, Supersave Mabohai, Terrace Hotel, Sheraton Utama Hotel and the Youth Centre.

The rest of the routes are Eastern Line, Southern Line, Western Line and Northern Line. All of these bus routes end at the main bus terminal in the capital.

Most of the bus services ends its daily operation at 6.00 or 7.00 pm.

Bus fare starts from $1.00.

There are also buses that depart for Tutong, Kuala Belait and Seria.

Water Taxis – A popular means of transportation should you wish to explore the famous Kampong Ayer or Water Village is by using the water taxi. You can hail for a water taxi at jetties situated along Brunei River. Regular boat services to Temburong district are also available which operates from 7.45am to 4.00pm daily.

Where to go?A Tourist Information Centre is available at the Brunei International Airport.

Another centre is available at the Temburong District located at No.13/14 Bangunan Perniagaan Rakyat Jati, Bangar Town.

Their operating hours are from 9.00am - 5.00pm daily and will close for Friday prayers from 12.00pm to 2pm.

Places of Interests:

Berakas Forestry Recreational Park – The 199 hectares forestry recreation park is situated along the Muara-

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Tutong highway which is just about 10 kilometres from the capital in Berakas. At the park, you can witness the sun-dappled pathways meander past sheltered picnic spots and barbeque facilities. Besides this green forest, you can also enjoy the beach. (Brunei-Muara District)

Brunei Arts & Handicraft Centre – Established in 1975 with the objective to preserve the skills of producing local handicrafts. The centre until today have produced many graduates who later are mostly involved in small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) mainly in producing local handicrafts l ike kain tenunan (weaved cloth), songkok (traditional headgear), and b r a s s - m a k i n g products.

The centre has a gallery that displays various types of handicrafts made by the students where some exhibits are for sale. (Brunei-Muara District)

Brunei Museum – Located about five kilometres from the capital, the Brunei Museum was officially opened on February 29, 1972 by Her Majesty Queen Elixabeth II of the United Kingdom. The museum has galleries on; Islamic arts, oil and gas, natural history, the Sunken Treasure, the Brunei’s traditional culture and Brunei’s archaeology and history. (Brunei-Muara District)

Bubungan Dua Belas – Also known as House of Twelve Roofs. Built in 1906, it is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Brunei based at Kota Batu. Located along Jalan Residency, the building was formerly used as the residence for previous British Residents and High Commissioners. It is now an exhibition gallery and offers a panoramic view overlooking the famous water village. (Brunei-Muara District)

Damuan Recreational Park – Situated next to the Istana Nurul Iman, the Damuan Recreational Park is the place to get the best view of the palace, Istana

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Nurul Iman. It also offers scenic park view along the riverbank of Jalan Tutong, and it is also a popular spot for joggers. (Brunei-Muara District)

Gadong Night Market – This market opens daily from 6.00pm until midnight. It offers various types of cooked food ranging from local to western dishes at affordable prices. Also available are fresh fruits and vegetables and some clothes items. (Brunei-Muara District)

Health Promotion Centre – Located about 10 minutes drive from the capital, the centre was officially opened by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin

Waddaulah, The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on November 13, 2008. The centre consists of modern exhibits that features health related items.

Besides viewing the modern, attractive a n d i n n o va t i v e exhibitions, interactive activities are also available. (Brunei-Muara District)

Home stay at Kampong Senukoh – Kampong Senukoh offers a concept of a village stay where visitors can choose between a day trip or overnight programme (two-day one night stay). During the visit/stay, visitors are invited to join and experience traditional activities like pounding of paddy, cooking local delicacies; making local handicraft and playing traditional games. (Temburong District)

Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah – Built in 1994 to commemorate the silver jubilee anniversary of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s accession to the throne. It is located in Kampong Kiarong, and about five to 10 minutes drive from the capital. The mosque is one of the main venue for mass prayer in the nation. (Brunei-Muara

District)

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The Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery (KACTG) - Built with a style replicating a grand Kampong Ayer house and with a distinctive observation tower that gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the water village and its surroundings, the KACTG has become the latest tourist attraction in Bandar Seri Begawan. There are galleries containing background information of the water village from its historical origins until its present day. (Brunei-Muara District)

Malay Technology Museum – The Malay Technology Museum is located next to the Brunei Museum at Kota Batu. The Museum has three main exhibition halls, the water village’s traditional homes; water village’s traditional technology; and inland’s traditional technology. (Brunei-Muara District)

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque – Named after the 28th Sultan of Brunei. Officially opened on September 26, 1958 by Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the mosque is one of the magnificent mosques in Southeast Asia. The mosque is situated in the capital and has a majestic golden dome. Next to the mosque (in the middle of the lagoon) is a replica of a 16th century royal barge.

(Brunei-Muara District)

Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) – It is located in Seria. It was set up by the Brunei Shell Petroleum with an aim to educate the public about science, technology and environment. (Belait District)

Tasek Lama Recreational Park – Tasek Lama Recreational Park is one of the

oldest recreational parks located in the capital. It has a natural waterfall and lake, and features a beautiful garden of trees and flowers. (Brunei-Muara District)

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Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park – Located in Tutong District, about 1 hour 15 minutes drives from Bandar Seri Begawan. Administered by the Brunei Museum, the park aims to provide a safe haven for protected wildlife to breed, preserve flora and fauna and to provide a base for scientific research and study. For those interested in botany or bird watching, there is also a trail through the jungle. The park was declared as one of the ASEAN National Heritage Sites on November 29, 1984. (Tutong District).

The Royal Regalia Building - Situated in the heart of the capital, the building was built to commemorate the silver jubilee anniversary of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s accession to the throne. The building houses a collection or royal regalia and associated items to the Brunei royalty. (Brunei-Muara District)

Ulu Temburong National Park – This park is rich with unspoiled flora and fauna. It can be reached by using a long boat or locally known as Temuai. At the park, you can enjoy strolling on the extensive wooden boardwalk and witness the fresh environment. Other excitements here are the

Canopy Walk and the waterfall. (Temburong District)

Leisure/recreational/dine in:Anduki Jubilee Recreational Park, Belait.Batang Duri Park, Temburong.Billionth Barrel Monument, Seria.Bukit Shahbandar Recreational Park, Jerudong.Bukit Patoi Recreational Park,Temburong.Empire Cinema, Jerudong.The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

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Jerudong Park Playground.Kianggeh Food Centre,Bandar Seri Begawan.Lumut Beach.Mangrove Paradise Resort,Sungai Belukut.Muara Beach.OGDC Cinema (Seria).River cruise (Kampong Ayer).Selirong Island. Serasa Beach.Seri Kenangan beach, Tutong.Seri Qlap Cinema, Kiulap.Tamu Selera, Bandar Seri Begawan.Tamu Serambangun, Tutong.Tamu Seria.Tasik Buluh Aie Merah Recreation Park, Temburong.The Mall Gadong, Cineplex.Ulu-Ulu ResortWasai Wang Kadir, Belait.

ShoppingAthirah Plaza, Jalan Tutong.Delima Square.Galleria YMRM, Jalan Tutong.Galleria YMRM, Tungku.Hua Ho Mall, Tutong.Hua Ho Mall, Manggis.J a y a H y p e r m a r t , Centrepoint Gadong.Kiulap Plaza Hotel.Kompleks Utama Bumiputera, Temburong Nazmi Textile Mall, Delima.Seri Qlap Mall.Setia Kenangan Complex, Kiulap.Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Shopping Complex.The Mall, Gadong.Sumbangsih Mulia, Beribi Gadong.

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Where to stay?Brunei Muara DistrictAbdul Razak Plaza Apartments.APEK Utama Hotel.Brunei Hotel.D’ Anggerek Service Apartments.Goodview Hotel.Grand City Hotel.Jubilee Hotel.KH Soon Services & Resthouse.Kiulap Plaza Hotel.Kompleks Mohamad Yusof Service Apartment.Le Gallery Suites & Hotel.LR Asma Hotel.Mangrove Paradise Resort.Orchid Garden Hotel.Palm Garden HotelRiverview Hotel.Rizqun International Hotel.Seameo Voctech.Sheraton Utama Hotel.Terrace Hotel.The Centrepoint Hotel.The Empire Hotel & Country Club.The Holiday Lodge.Traders Inn.Youth Hostel.

Tutong District Halim Plaza Hotel

Belait DistrictHotel Kooperasi Seria.Plaza Sutera Biru.Riviera Hotel.Sea View Hotel.Sentosa Hotel.The Swiss Hotel Apartment.

TemburongAwadah GuesthouseHaji Radin GuesthouseLikut Intan Guesthouse.Ulu-Ulu Resort

General Information: Brunei Darussalam’s Milestones Since 2000Brunei secures e-commerce and online users’ interest: Brunei has passed four legislations, effective since 2000, in a bid to secure electronic business transactions and curb online instances that contravene public decency.

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1. Electronic Transactions Order 2000 2. Computer Misuse Order 2000 3. Broadcasting (Class Licence) Notification 2000 4. Internet Code of Practice Notification 2000

Brunei overhauls telecommunications and IT laws: Brunei has passed three legislations since 2001 in a bid to streamline its information communication technologies (ICT) industry.

1. Authority for Information Communication Technology Industry (AiTi) Order 2001 that establishes an independent statutory body to regulate Brunei’s telecommunications and ICT industries.

2. Telecommunications Order 2001 that succeeds the Telecommunications Act 1984.3. Telecommunications Succession Order 2001 that enables the Telecommunications Department (JTB) to transform into a corporate entity.Other signatories to this treaty include Singapore and Thailand.

Brunei strengthens human resources: Brunei’s supply of specialist and professional workforce is set to increase after the government has allocated the B$250 million Human Resources Fund on January 10, 2006, which augments the current B$852 million Education and Human Resources Development Fund. The B$250 million funding covers six aspects of Brunei’s human capital:

1. Specialists and professionals 2. The three-tiered scholarship schemes 3. Unemployed graduates 4. School leavers 5. Skills and knowledge development 6. Entrepreneurial development

The funding also pays for the feasibility studies on the overseas employment inducement schemes, and the national service scheme. The B$250 million Human Resources Fund complements the National Development Plan, which hitherto focuses solely on physical infrastructure development.Brunei introduces law on disaster management: To provide effective disaster management, a Disaster Management Order, 2006 had been passed.

Brunei introduces nation’s first Islamic bond: Sukuk Al-Ijarah, an Islamic bond was launched on March 14, 2006. The issuance of the Sukuk Al-Ijarah is the first step in developing a Capital Market in Brunei. The introduction is hoped to enhance the nation’s position in the growing regional and global Islamic Financial Community.

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For the issuance of the Sukuk, the Government of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam through Ministry of Finance had established two companies namely; Sukuk Holding Properties Inc and Sukuk (Brunei) Inc as the facilitators of the government in implementing the programme.

Brunei shows strong commitment to protect the environment: As a symbol of their support and commitment in the area of the natural habitat and forest conservation, Brunei Darussalam with Indonesia and Malaysia launched the ‘Heart of Borneo’.

The ‘Heart of Borneo’ is a protected area that harbours up to six per cent of the world’s total biodiversity. It is the source of 14 of the island’s 20 major rivers with some 361 new species discovered in the last 10 years. It covers an area of approximately 220, 000 sq. km of equatorial rainforest and numerous wildlife species.

Brunei becomes member of Asian Development Bank: Brunei Darussalam became the 65th member of Asian Development Bank (ADB) on April 27, 2006.

Brunei introduces Order to protect the young: In its bid to protect her children and the young segment of the population, the Government of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam introduced the Children and Young Person Order, 2006 which replaced the Children Order, 2000.

Brunei sets up ‘think tank’ establishment: Under the Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies Order, 2006, a ‘think tank’ establishment had been set up. It is known as the Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS).

Brunei joins International Labour Organisation: Brunei Darussalam

joined and became the 180th member of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in 2007.

Brunei expands its capital: Bandar Seri Begawan is now 100.35 sq.km wide where its former land area was only 12.87 sq.km. The expansion took place effective August 1, 2007.

Brunei ranks among top five in living standards: Brunei Darussalam is ranked among top five in Asia and the Pacific when it comes to economic well-being and living standards of the population. These results are based on a study by Asia Development Bank (ADB).

Brunei celebrates 100th anniversary of its health services: The year 2007 marks the 100th anniversary of Brunei’s health services. It is one of the oldest

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services in the nation and had gone through a number of challenges and notably, achieved several momentous successes such as the eradication of Malaria since August 1987 and Poliomyelitis since October 2004.

Brunei ensures education for all: To ensure that the children of this nation will be receiving formal education within an appropriate period in schools and to the enhance the quality of the education, the Ministry of Education have enforced the ‘Compulsory Education Order 2007’ that took effect from November 24, 2007.

The main objective of this Order is to ensure that all children aged between six and 15 years old who meet the requirements to receive primary and secondary education are officially registered and getting proper education in schools.

Brunei enforces Custom Import Duties Order and Excise Duties Order: No import taxes on cigarettes and tobacco, alcoholic beverages and motor vehicles, but instead replaced with excise duties will be enforced under the Custom Import Duties Order, 2007.

Under the Customs Import Duties Order 2007, the three schedules include Rate of Import Duty, Exemption From Import Duty, and Scheduled Persons.

Meanwhile, for the Excise Duties Order, the three schedules are Rate of Excise Duty, Exemption From Import Duty, and Scheduled Persons.

According to the Customs Import Duties Order 2007, duty must be paid for importing products into the country. While, Excise Duties Order 2007 requires the payment of excise duties which applies to products manufactured locally.

Brunei announces its long-term development plan: A book entitled ‘Brunei Darussalam Long-Term Development Plan’ was launched where it outlined three major areas; Wawasan Brunei 2035; Outline of Strategies and Policies for Development (OSPD) 2007-2017; and the National Development Plan 2007-2012.

Through the National Vision or Wawasan Brunei 2035, it aims to make Brunei Darussalam, by 2035, as a nation which will be widely recognised for the accomplishments of its educated and highly skilled people as measured by the highest international standards; quality of life that is among the top 10 nations in the world; and a dynamic and sustainable economy with income per capita within the top 10 countries in the world.

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Brunei establishes new department: A new department called e-Government National Centre has been formed where its operations began on April 1, 2008. The formation of the new department is part of the continuous effort of the Government of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to upgrade the effectiveness in providing efficient and effective civil service in a dynamic environment through the use and enhancement of info-communication technology.The main task of the centre is to provide services in terms of operation, acquisition and human resource development in the field of ICT related to e-government initiatives, especially in civil service.

The centre is under the jurisdiction of the Prime Minister’s Office.

Brunei sets up Brunei Heart of Borneo Council: Brunei Darussalam has set up its Heart of Borneo Council effective April 21, 2008 in its bid for a proper management of the Heart of Borneo initiative.

Brunei uses biometric passport: Brunei Darussalam is the fourth ASEAN member to use the biometric passport. The launching of the biometric passport fulfils the international standard required by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. The launching of the biometric passport took place on May 5, 2008.

Brunei’s Broadcasting Act authority transferred: With effect from May 21, 2008; the authority for Broadcasting Act (Chapter 180) was transferred to the Ministry of Communications. With the transfer of authority, regulatory and monitoring functions of the Act, such as the issuance of broadcasting licenses, collection of licensing revenues, monitoring and enforcement are now carried out by the Ministry of Communications.

However, the two government media agencies, Radio Televisyen Brunei and Department of Information are not affected by the transfer and remain under the administration of the Prime Minister’s Office.

The Broadcasting Act (Chapter 180) was formerly under the purview of the Prime Minister’s Office.

Brunei introduces two new Orders: Two new Orders – Takaful Order 2008 and Islamic Banking Order 2008 have been introduced in 2008 in the bid to promote and develop the finance sector of this nation.

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Brunei meets ISPS Code standard: Brunei ports have met the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code standard since July 1, 2004.

ISPS Code is a step towards strengthening vessels’ security and ports facilities.

Brunei launched its auto-gate immigration system: Brunei Darussalam has reached another milestone in the field of information communication technologies (ICT) with the launching of its auto-gate immigration system.

An official launching ceremony was held on December 31, 2008 at the Brunei International Airport where passengers arriving on flight SQ182 from Singapore holding biometric passports making their way through the immigration clearance with the auto-gate technology were the first to use this new system.

Through the auto-gate system, biometric passports will be scanned using a passport scanner which will read the information on the chip that is in the biometric passport. Once the information has been read, the finger print of the passport holder is needed before the gate is opened for entering or exit.

Must try! Local dishes/delicacies/fruits:

Ambuyat – white sticky starch made from ambulong (ambulong is produced from Rumbia tree).

Kembayau – or Canarium Odontophyllum Mig from the family of Burseraceae. It is a seasonal local fruit that can be found

around Borneo Island. It is tasty, and can be eaten with a little sugar or salt. Kembayau is cooked by soaking it in boiling water for several minutes.

Limpaung – or Baccaurea Lanceolata Muell is another local fruit. Its shape is slightly bigger

than a golf ball. Limpaung taste sour and slightly bitter. This fruit can be eaten raw or used as a cooking ingredient. Membangan – Membangan or its botanical name Mangifera Factida Lour (from Anacardiaceae family) is once known as the giant mango of Borneo island. It is only available in Borneo. It taste sweet and fragrant.Nasi Katok – packed rice with sambal (spicy sauce), chicken or beef.Sesagun – made from rice, coconut, sugar and little salt (grinded together). Sesagun is a perfect combination eating with banana.

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Editorial BoardAdvisor: Dr. Haji Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong (hadi.melayong@information.gov.bn) Hajah Noorashidah binti Haji Aliomar (noorashidah.aliomar @information.gov.bn)

Editor: Sastra Sarini binti Haji Julaini (sarini.julaini@information.gov.bn)

Sub-editor & text: Hajah Noorhijrah binti Haji Idris (noorhijrah.idris@information.gov.bn), Aida binti Hidop (aida.hidop@information.gov.bn)

Layout: Hajah Zaianit binti Haji Noorkhan (zaianit.noorkhan@information.gov.bn)

Photo credit: Photography & Audio Visual Division of Information Department; Sastra Sarini Haji Julaini; Haji Ariffin Md. Noor; Pengiran Ikram Pengiran Haji Ahmad; Hajah Zaianit Haji Noorkhan; Nur Amalina Jennifer Abdullah Mok; Mahmud Ibrahim; Sahrin Md. Noor; The Empire Hotel & Country Club; Orchid Garden Hotel; Brunei Tourism; and Royal Brunei Airlines.

Photos on front cover: Ariel view of Bandar Seri Begawan (top), the Silver Jubilee Celebration 2009 (left), Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque (right).

Photos on back cover: Ariel view of Bandar Seri Begawan (top), Temuai (Iban long boat) at Temburong River (middle), visitor at the top of Canopy Walk, Belalong

Temburong (bottom).

Published by Information Department, Prime Minister’s Office, Brunei Darussalam

(English News & Media IT Division)