116-583: Batu Satu , also known as Kampong Parit , is an area in Bandar Seri Begawan , the capital of Brunei . It is also a designated village in Brunei-Muara District , within Mukim Kianggeh . The population was 1,509 in 2016. It encompasses a commercial area of the capital. It is also home to the country's Supreme Court, as well as some of important Islamic religious educational institutions of
232-597: A 50-page Malay report to the Sultan. The first draft of Brunei's constitution, drafted by Sir Anthony Abell and his peers, protected Brunei's sovereignty and was in line with the goals of the country's Malay constitutional committee. Abell, the Sultan, and his two Wazirs, Pengiran Bendahara and Pengiran Pemancha , met with British Resident John Orman Gilbert on 16–17 December 1954, in Istana Darul Hana . These negotiations resulted in minor changes that were submitted to
348-592: A British High Commissioner. Additionally, the five councils that were set up are: Executive Council, Legislative Council (LegCo), Privy Council , Council Of Succession and the State Religious Council. ...The success which we had get in this year (1959) had attract and made us happy, especially as a victory which our people had dreamed of, that is the Written Constitution for Brunei. With this Constitution, our country now faced one great change. With
464-692: A boat and depending only on favorable winds may be hazardous. But he did not follow this advise, continuing to sail the sailing boat toward that goal until it came to shallow seas near the Island of Sari. He was instructed by Hughes Hallet, the Assistant British Resident in Kuala Belait, to examine the Criminal Procedure Code that was in effect in Brunei at the time. The technique of implementing
580-581: A hall for 1,000 people, a gymnastics hall, an Olympic-sized pool, and a gender-separated hostel, and it celebrated its golden jubilee in 2020. The capital is connected by bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to the western part of the country by road. Road access to/from the exclave of Temburong is via the Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge — until the bridge opened in 2020, it was necessary to travel through Sarawak in Malaysia , via
696-452: A larger country; the only way to achieve this was by merging with Malaysia and the rest of the states. This view was also shared by Lee Kuan Yew , the then-prime minister of Singapore. The Sultan considered the Federation of Malaya's proposals more carefully before making the ultimate decision because it may have an impact on Brunei's nationality, the country, and the future of religion. When
812-733: A major development plan was introduced, dedicating $ 100 million to the city's growth—a significant investment for a community of just 54,000. That same year on 1 August, the BTSB was renamed the Brunei Town Municipal Board (BTMB) and administered by the British Resident until 1959. From then on, the Brunei–Muara District Officer took on dual roles as head and chairman of the BTMB. Brunei's population tripled to 83,877 by 1960 as
928-617: A news conference held in Singapore early on 7 June 1950, Gerard MacBryan stated that the intended coronation of Omar Ali Saifuddin would not be possible without the elements of the Brunei royal regalia he had obtained. Omar Ali Saifuddien was crowned as the Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan in the Lapau on 31 May 1951. In conjunction of the coronation , he was conferred with the Honorary Companion of
1044-630: A result of immigration brought on by oilfield finds in Belait. The capital was now competing economically with the burgeoning cities of Seria and Kuala Belait. Although the majority did not hold Bruneian citizenship, the Chinese community, who were extensively involved in local commerce, increased to a quarter of the population by 1960. The Brunei revolt began on 8 December 1962, when the North Kalimantan National Army quickly captured Brunei Town,
1160-669: A result, the number went up every year. In 1963, one of the first local students to graduate from Al-Azhar University did so thanks to this scholarship . Three Bruneians graduated from Al-Azhar University under his reign. When Omar Ali Saifuddien went to the United Kingdom in May 1952, he went for a walk with Pengiran Anak Tua Omar Ali, not knowing where they were going to walk from the Sheldon Park Hotel until they arrived in Croydon , despite
1276-661: A significant advancement toward the implementation of Brunei's constitution. The outcome of the deal that satisfied the main requests of the Brunei Constitutional Committee in 1954, which included the appointment of a Menteri Besar and the adoption of staggered implementation measures beginning on 1 July. The Menteri Besar (Chief Minister), the State Secretary , the General, the State Finance Officer, and
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#17328548705881392-760: A strong opposition, which made him more determined to maintain his local control. As a result, the draft constitution underwent major changes and deletions. In 1957, Omar Ali Saifuddien sent a team to London to negotiate the constitution with the British Government. The principal subject of the 1957 London Negotiations was the Rang Undang-Undang Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei , 'Brunei State Constitution Bill', drafted by Panglima Bukit Gantang in Brunei House in Singapore. Azahari made an effort to communicate with British officials, but
1508-429: A sturdy brick wall and furnished with opulent furnishings, the sultan's palace looks like a cheap shed. The town's filthy state is exacerbated by offensive smells coming from uncovered mud, where waste builds up. In sharp contrast to the town's historical splendour, the majority of the population is made up of slaves and the Sultan's and nobility's dependents. Brunei Town's development unfolded in three major phases, with
1624-401: A week for a year in order to improve their abilities and enable them become completely qualified "Trained Religious Teachers." Under his seventeen-year rule from 1950 to 1967, Brunei prospered and expanded quickly. He gave the government orders to revitalise the people's livelihood through national progress and development programs, which were effectively carried out and improved the welfare of
1740-581: A writer of distinction if one considers his education. On the recommendation of T. F. Carey, the British Resident , the then 18 years old prince enrolled together with two of his cousins, Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam and Pengiran Anak Abdul Kahar , at the Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK) in Perak , British Malaya from 1932 to 1936. Additionally, Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim accompanied him to
1856-555: A year later. Initiated in 1953, the first National Development Plan (RKN) lasted five years. E. R. Bevington served as the National Development Commissioner during the time. He was designated to present Brunei with any new plans. The LegCo allocated $ 100 million for this project in July 1953. One of the primary goals of this plan is to supply enough water, create bridges, telephones, buildings, and electric power plants for
1972-607: Is a testament to his commitment to advancing and bolstering the Islamic faith in Brunei. Upon the sudden death of his brother in Singapore , who left no male heirs , on 4 June 1950, he was proclaimed by Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Muhammad Yasin as the next Sultan at the Hall Government Office on 6 June 1950. Omar Ali Saifuddien embraced his new role and asserted his authority by directing his late brother's burial at
2088-451: Is also home to Kampong Ayer , the largest 'water village' in the world and nicknamed Venice of the East . It was once the host city of the 20th Southeast Asian Games in 1999 and 8th APEC Summit in 2000. It was named after Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III , the 28th Sultan of Brunei and the father of the current Sultan, Hassanal Bolkiah . Seri Begawan is part of the royal title bestowed on
2204-1141: Is available at two campuses of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education and the Brunei Polytechnic . Additionally, two private colleges, Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology and Laksamana College of Business , offer bachelor programs. Several countries have set up their embassies, commissions or consulates in Bandar Seri Begawan, including Australia, Bangladesh , Belgium, Benin , Burkina Faso , Burma (Myanmar) , Cambodia , Canada, Chile , China, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia , Japan, Laos , Malaysia , Netherlands, New Zealand, North Korea , Oman , Pakistan, Philippines , Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia , Singapore , South Korea , Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan , Thailand , United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam . Omar Ali Saifuddien III Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien ( Jawi : عمر علي سيف الدين سعد الخير والدين ; 23 September 1914 – 7 September 1986)
2320-510: Is home to Bandar Seri Begawan. The area contrasts sharply with the mountainous Temburong District to the east, featuring low hills, marshy coastal plains, and narrow alluvial valleys along key rivers. Between Tutong and the capital, hills approach the coast, while the coastal plains around Bandar Seri Begawan remain low and marshy, particularly to the south. Brunei's territory is divided by the Limbang region of Sarawak , which historically served as
2436-440: Is interested at this time to establish religious secondary schools with appropriate educational policies in accordance with the progress of time. They must learn Islamic knowledge, Sharī’ah, and Arabic language as well as knowledge of the country and the modern sciences. Omar Ali Saifuddien had just brought a walking stick and the hotel room key with him on a June 1965 vacation to Washington, D.C. , so he could stroll about and see
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#17328548705882552-1028: Is known for its diverse food offerings, from local specialties like roti john, ambuyat, and satay to exotic fruits such as durian and jackfruit. Bandar Seri Begawan is home to several notable schools across various educational levels. Primary and secondary institutions include the historic Raja Isteri Girls High School , established in 1957 as the country's first all-girls secondary school, along with private schools such as Jerudong International School and International School Brunei . The city also has government sixth form centers: Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College for general studies and Hassanal Bolkiah Boys' Arabic Secondary School for students from Arabic secondary religious schools. In higher education, Bandar Seri Begawan hosts two national universities: Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University , focused on Islamic studies, and Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College , which specialises in training teachers for religious education. Technical and vocational education
2668-676: Is the Pro-Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption . The tombs of Bolkiah and Sharif Ali in Kota Batu are key historical attractions, symbolising Brunei's rich legacy. The Lapau , traditionally used for royal ceremonies, and the Old Lapau , now a gallery in the Brunei History Centre , add to the city's cultural significance. The city also hosts several museums. The Brunei Museum , situated in
2784-422: Is the capital and largest city of Brunei . It is officially a municipal area ( kawasan bandaran ) with an area of 100.36 square kilometres (38.75 sq mi) and an estimated population of 100,700 as of 2007. It is part of Brunei–Muara District , the smallest yet most populous district which is home to over 70 per cent of the country's population. It is the country's largest urban centre and nominally
2900-454: Is the area that has been turned over to commercial rice farming , which will improve the nation's agricultural sector and lessen the need to import rice from overseas. For their own knowledge and as a result of exporting goods outside, people can also learn how to grow coffee , bananas , wheat , peanuts , and other crops. The plan also saw an increase of production of meat and eggs. The fishing industry increased its output by 25% throughout
3016-516: Is the main burial ground for several sultans and royal family members of Brunei, adding to the country's historical significance. The city's suburb incorporates nearby Kampong Ayer, in which houses were built on stilts . It stretches about 8 km (5.0 mi) along the Brunei River. Founded 1,000 years ago, the village is considered the largest stilt settlement in the world, with approximately 30,000 residents and 2,000 houses. The term "Venice of
3132-492: Is used for passengers travelling to Penambang from Bangar and Limbang. The economy of Bandar Seri Begawan includes the production of furniture , textiles , handicrafts , and timber . For shopping, the Gadong commercial area is popular, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The traditional Kianggeh Market , believed to be Brunei’s oldest market, mainly sells local cuisine, seafood, and fruit. Gadong Night Market
3248-573: Is used for transportation between downtown Bandar Seri Begawan and Kampong Ayer . Water taxis are the most common means of negotiating the waterways of Kampong Ayer. They can be hailed from the numerous "docking parts" along the banks of the Brunei River . Fares are negotiable. Regular water taxi and boat services depart for Temburong between 7:45 am and 4 pm daily, and also serve the Malaysian towns of Limbang , Lawas , Sundar and Labuan . A speedboat
3364-426: The 17th century with the emergence of a water settlement near present-day Kota Batu . In the second stage, the capital shifted to the area around what is now Kampong Ayer —a collection of water villages. Today, Kampong Ayer, originally the ancient capital built over the Brunei River , serves as a suburb of the modern capital on adjacent land, having thrived particularly during Sultan Bolkiah 's reign. This city
3480-691: The Bumiputera privileges. Large numbers of foreign workers are also found within Brunei and the capital city, with the majority being from Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia (mostly Betawi, Batak, Ambon, Minahasa, Aceh, Malay and Minangkabau), and the Indian subcontinent . Numerous important historical and religious sites may be found in Bandar Seri Begawan. The Ash-Shaliheen Mosque , Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque , and Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque are notable mosques. Another noteworthy house of worship
3596-544: The Colonial Office , where they were unanimously accepted. District Advisory Councils were formed in each of the four districts in 1955. By mid-1955, Omar Ali Saifuddien's demands to secure roles for his Wazirs in the Legislative and Executive Councils complicated the drafting of Brunei's constitution and disrupted British plans for parliamentary re-organisation. In 1956, A. M. Azahari 's Brunei People's Party (PRB)
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3712-703: The Golden Jubilee of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah 's rule, while the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Silver Jubilee Park , opened in 2004, celebrates the Silver Jubilee of his reign. Tasek Lama Recreational Park is one of the oldest recognised parks in the country. Additionally, Pusat Belia, Brunei's youth centre , was established on 20 December 1969 after being commissioned by then-Crown Prince Hassanal Bolkiah in 1967. The center, costing B$ 2 million, includes extensive facilities such as
3828-521: The Intertropical Convergence Zone than to the trade winds and rare cyclones . The climate is hot and wet. The city sees heavy precipitation throughout the year, with the northeast monsoon blowing from December to March and the southeast monsoon from around June to October. The wettest day on record is 9 July 2020, when 662.0 millimetres (26.06 in) of rainfall was reported at the airport. The Bruneian Census 2011 Report estimated
3944-531: The Istana Nurul Iman palace currently serves as the residence of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. The Secretariat Building , the oldest government structure, holds the seat of government known as " State Secretary ." The Raja Ayang Mausoleum , dating back to the 15th century, is believed to honor a royal who was punished for incest, and it has since become a cultural site where visitors often seek blessings, despite some damage caused by offerings. Kubah Makam Di Raja
4060-666: The Kampong Ayer community. His involvement inspired Kampong Ayer residents to consider mainland resettlement, and relocation efforts in the 1920s began expanding beyond the city centre to areas like Tungkadeh and Kumbang Pasang , marking a significant shift in Brunei’s urban development. After the Japanese launched an assault starting in Kuala Belait , Brunei Town was overrun by them on 22 December 1941. To British officers they had seized,
4176-557: The Kota Batu Archaeological Park , is the country’s largest archaeological site. Other notable museums include the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum , Brunei Energy Hub , Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery , Malay Technology Museum , Royal Regalia Museum , and Bubungan Dua Belas . Istana Darussalam and Istana Darul Hana are former royal residences of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, while
4292-513: The Kubah Makam Di Raja upriver, contrary to Tengku Raihani 's preference. At 2:30 p.m., British Resident Pretty formally declared him as Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and the 28th sultan of Brunei, with the decision's origin remaining unclear between Sarawak's Governor Anthony Abell and Brunei's Council of State. Later, it was revealed that Pretty had installed Omar Ali Saifuddien as sultan "against significant local opposition." During
4408-793: The Malaysian Solidarity Consultative Committee (MSCC) initially convened in Jesselton in August 1961, Brunei abstained from the proceedings. The MSCC had its second debate in Kuching in December 1961, followed by the third debate in Kuala Lumpur , in January 1962. The PRB, including its leader who had considerable popular support, Azahari was against the merger. According to them, if Brunei
4524-548: The Quran at the age of ten, receiving instruction from many specifically chosen tutors. He finished learning the Quran and has performed forty formal readings of it. The princes and princesses of the royal family had it customary to study under several imams of the Quran in order to get favour and blessings from them. He pursued his religious education with the laws of Islam once he entered his teens. From an early age, Omar Ali Saifuddien
4640-548: The forest reserve . He got to know the forestry industry by working with Dusun , Belait , Tutong , and Iban labourers. Subsequently, he received invitations to work in many locations, including Bukit Sawat , Pengkalan Siong, Kuala Melayan , Sukang , Melilas , and Ingai. In 1937, he was transferred to the Judiciary Department, also became an administrative officer in 1938. He traveled by sailing boat to Lawas in 1939. Some of his friends warned him that sailing
4756-431: The oilfields at Seria , and portions of Sarawak and North Borneo . In response, British forces, including Gurkhas and Royal Marines , regained control of most key centres by 11 December, resulting in the capture or surrender of around 2,700. Together with the expansion of the oil and gas industry, commercialisation began to transform Brunei's capital and a large number of public buildings were constructed, along with
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4872-461: The prime minister of the Federation of Malaya announced his proposal for a merger of Singapore, North Borneo , Sarawak , and Brunei , Omar Ali Saifuddien saw this as an opportunity for Brunei to achieve independence from British influence. He sent a congratulatory telegraph to Tunku Abdul Rahman, showing his support for the merger. For him, Brunei as a small country, still needed a protection of
4988-484: The Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board since the country's independence in 1984. The new town has grown along Jalan Berakas and Jalan Muara in the north and Jalan Tutong and Jalan Gadong in the west. On 1 August 2007, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah gave consent for the expansion of the city from 12.87 km (4.97 sq mi) to 100.36 km (38.75 sq mi). The city is administered by
5104-552: The Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board within Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Department, a government department within the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Municipal Board was established in 1921, originally as a Sanitary Board ( Lembaga Kebersihan ) which was, and is still, responsible for maintaining the cleanliness to the then Brunei Town. It achieved the status of bandaran (municipality) in 1935 with
5220-653: The Brunei nationalist movement toward the close of World War II —he also started social and economic reform. He became known as the Architect of Modern Brunei , Royal Poet , Father of Brunei Negara Zikir and Father of Independence . Pengiran Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien was born at Istana Kota, Kampong Sultan Lama , Brunei Town on 23 September 1914. He was the seventh child out of ten of Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II and Raja Isteri Fatimah. Following his birth, Pengiran Sharbanun binti Pengiran Muhammad raised him along with his older sister, Pengiran Anak Puteri Besar. Like
5336-667: The Brunei Malay Organisation, in an effort to exploit the oil riches. The town was brutally bombarded by Allied forces beginning in November 1944 and subjected to extreme brutality by the Japanese military police, the Kempeitai . After three days of warfare, American and Australian forces captured Brunei on 10 June 1945, but Brunei Town suffered significant damage. Brunei Malays had a stronger sense of national identity at this time, and local partners went on to play important roles in
5452-491: The East" was coined by Pigafetta in honour of the water village that he encountered at Kota Batu. Pigafetta was on Ferdinand Magellan 's last voyages when he visited Brunei in 1521. Several parks and trails in the city serve as landmarks of historical and cultural significance. Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien , for example, was where Brunei's declaration of independence was read on 1 January 1984. Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas , inaugurated on 22 October 2017, commemorates
5568-687: The Federal Government will acquire the oil production proceeds. Furthermore, because the Head of the Association regarded him as holding the lowest status among the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia , he disapproved of the planned rotational structure for the Agong's appointment. The proposed five-year term for Omar Ali Saifuddien to serve as Malaysia's Yang Di-Pertuan Agong is another point of contention for
5684-722: The Japanese declared their intention to free Asia from colonial rule. Due to an Allied embargo that hampered the local economy, Brunei Town experienced extreme economic duress during the Japanese occupation . On 22 December 1941, Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin , who was based in Kampong Sumbiling , surrendered to General Tawaguchi . By encouraging agriculture and requiring farmers to turn over a percentage of their harvests, Japan sought to integrate Brunei's culture and economy with its own, appointing Ibrahim Mohammad Jahfar as head of administration under Governor Takamura. The Japanese instituted stringent cultural initiatives, such as teaching Japanese language and values and establishing youth groups like
5800-431: The Lower Secondary Certificate Examination. Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School in Brunei Town, Muda Hashim Secondary School in Tutong , and Sultan Hassan Secondary School in Temburong were the secondary schools that were finished in 1966. The Department of Religious Affairs , which oversees all national administrative concerns pertaining to Brunei's Islamic Constitution, was established on 1 July 1954, by
5916-415: The Merdeka Talks, Brunei's constitutional problems became the attention of British authorities, who summoned the Sultan to London in early 1959 to finalize the document with the Colonial Secretary. On 14 March, Omar Ali Saifuddien traveled via Singapore with ten members of his team to London for constitutional talks. As a consequence of the discussions, the Brunei Agreement was obtained on 6 April 1959, marking
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#17328548705886032-506: The Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (CMG) by Queen Elizabeth II . He performed the Hajj pilgrimage later in September of the same year. Upon his ascension to the throne, Omar Ali Saifuddien also became the head of the Islamic religion in the country. Sending locals to study overseas was one of his initiatives to raise the caliber and aptitude of the native student body. Three Malay fifth-graders were transferred to Singapore's Al-Juned Arabic School in 1950. As
6148-440: The PRB winning the election. A major oil and gas field was discovered in 1963, with this discovery, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) became important. Developments in the oil and gas sector has continued actively and oil production has steadily increased since then. He had launched the first delivery of a 10-inch oil pipeline from the seabed off the coast of the Seria oil field on 28 October 1964. When Tunku Abdul Rahman ,
6264-474: The RBA Plaza in the city. Ships up to 280 feet (85 m) long may dock in the former port of Dermaga Diraja Bandar Seri Begawan , which is located 17 miles upstream from the mouth of the Brunei River. A 124-foot passenger pier, a 730-foot reinforced concrete wharf, and an electrically powered ramp are among the port's amenities. Ships may purchase purified fresh water in the capital for $ 2.00 per 1,000 gallons. The Marine Department keeps track of use and bills
6380-424: The Religious Advisor are the five administrators chosen under this constitution. Dato Ibrahim bin Mohammad Jahfar was Brunei's first Menteri Besar. On 29 September 1959, the constitution of Brunei was signed in Brunei Town . The agreement was signed by the sultan and Sir Robert Scott , the Commissioner-General for Southeast Asia. The British delegation was led by Alan Lennox-Boyd, 1st Viscount Boyd of Merton who
6496-419: The State of Johor to teach in Brunei were involved in the religious studies program. After Zuhur , the religious schools opened in the afternoon. These religious schools were administered by the Department of Religious Affairs, and their director and administrator were the highest ranking officials in the department. Omar Ali Saifuddien formed a commission to get feedback from locals in various regions, which
6612-427: The Sultan advice on creating district councils, reorganising the State Council, and creating the Constitution. The Tujuh Serangkai created a report detailing the public's support and agreement with the Sultan's constitutional goals after touring all four districts of Brunei . Under the direction of the Sultan, Brunei's constitution was drafted based on their findings, and on 23 March 1954, the Tujuh Serangkai presented
6728-422: The Sultan's opposition made the PRB's recommendations unconsidered. Consequently, Azahari said that the British were disregarding the aspirations of the populace, which set the stage for the revolution in 1962. In 1958, the 1957 London discussions were revisited in Brunei. Omar Ali Saifuddien and Sir Anthony Abell met on 27 October in Istana Darul Hana to review the outcomes of the London discussions. The objective
6844-422: The Sultan. In 1963, a meeting was held to discuss the prospect of Brunei joining Malaysia. Still, arguments arose due to differences about taxes. Omar Ali Saifuddien considered the discussion and held off on making a fast decision since he was offended by Tunku Abdul Rahman's proposals. Singapore and Brunei were not present when the Malaysia Agreement was signed in London in July 1963. The Federation of Malaysia
6960-468: The Sultan. Aspects of Islam are included in the plan, including legal issues , educational issues, religious message-related activities, and social administration. Two religious officials from Johor were brought to Brunei on 25 September 1954 in conjunction with that. Haji Ismail bin Omar Abdul Aziz and Haji Othman bin Mohammad Said are those individuals. The Bruneian government started holding an evening religious school in September 1956. Additionally,
7076-406: The affairs of the country's administration. The announcement was made during an assembly of Wazirs, Cheterias , Pehin Manteris , including Manteri Pendalaman, which took place in the Balai Pemanjangan Indera Kenchana of the Istana Darul Hana. Whereas I am happy to tell from the feelings of my word in declaring to the Government and all the citizens and residents of Brunei is that I will abdicate
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#17328548705887192-488: The area was officially designated as Brunei’s capital and municipal territory. Along the western riverbanks, government buildings and a mosque were constructed in the same year. Later on 1 January 1921, the Brunei Town Sanitary Board (BTSB) was established to oversee its development. In 1922, Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II 's decision to relocate his palace from Kampung Sultan Lama to the interior of Brunei Town renewed interest in Resident McArthur's proposal for relocating
7308-408: The burgeoning nationalist movement. The town's wartime population of 16,000 was reduced to a small number of people who remained when the war came to a close due to Allied bombs and food shortages. Residents were forced to observe from neighboring hills or take cover in the bush after the bombers destroyed almost all of the town's homes and businesses. Bruneians started reconstructing their homes out of
7424-454: The capital's natural hinterland until its cession to Sarawak in 1890. The city is easily accessible from Bukit Kota, a 133-meter (436 ft) hill near the eastern boundary of Brunei's western area, while TV broadcasts were transmitted from nearby Subok Hill . The Brunei River , which flows into Brunei Bay , is one of several waterways converging near Bandar Seri Begawan. Key subcatchments— Kedayan River , Sungai Damuan, and Sungai Imang—enter
7540-536: The city when he came across an Afro-American who was trying to steal from him. Nevertheless, the attacker left after taking a whack from his walking stick. The creation of local religious instructors from pupils who finished seven grades was one of the direct results of Omar Ali Saifuddien's religious education program. These "trained religious teachers" had to pass a specific exam and attend weekly sessions in order to become "Untrained Teachers." On 22 May 1966, evening religious training sessions were instituted five days
7656-578: The college. As a result, he was the first of the Brunei sultans to receive formal education in a foreign institution. After just one week of arriving in Brunei Town, he returned from Malaya in 1936 and was invited by Sir Roland Evelyn Turnbull , the British Resident, to Kuala Belait , where he would work as a cadet officer in the Forestry Department , which was then led by Mr. Smith. After spending just one week in Kuala Belait, he together with Awang Abdul Hamid, Awang Maidin, and Awang Ludin relocated to Bukit Puan where they spent three months surveying
7772-439: The commercial area, was the first bowling alley in Brunei. It once hosted bowling games during the 1999 Southeast Asian Games . Some of the educational institutions for the country's Islamic religious education are located within its administrative boundary: This Brunei location article is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . Neighbourhoods of Bandar Seri Begawan Bandar Seri Begawan ( BSB )
7888-461: The convenience of Bruneians, and widen highways for communication. A deepwater Muara Port was also constructed under the plan. Power requirements were met and studies were made to provide electricity to rural areas. Efforts were made to eradicate malaria , with the help of the World Health Organization , under the plan. Efforts were successful, bringing the down the cases of malaria from 300 cases in 1953 to only 66 cases in 1959. The death rate
8004-458: The conversion of the Sanitary Board into the current Municipal Board ( Lembaga Bandaran ). The city is located in Brunei–Muara District , the smallest yet the most populous district in the country, and as of 1 August 2007, the municipal area has been expanded from 12.87 square kilometres (4.97 sq mi) to 100.36 square kilometres (38.75 sq mi). The Bandar Seri Begawan area encompasses several mukims and villages within
8120-412: The country's only city. The capital is home to Brunei's seat of government, as well as a commercial and cultural centre. It was formerly known as Brunei Town until it was renamed in 1970 in honour of Omar Ali Saifuddien III , the 28th Sultan of Brunei and the father of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah . The history of Bandar Seri Begawan can be traced back to the establishment of a Malay stilt settlement on
8236-514: The country. Batu Satu was home to Istana Parit ("Parit Palace"), also known as Istana Temasek ("Temasek Palace"), a former royal residence of Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin , the 27th Sultan of Brunei . The palace had been demolished to make way for the construction of the religious school Sekolah Ugama Arab Menengah Perempuan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit . Batu Satu commercial area mainly comprises shophouses, small-sized shopping centres and lodging establishments. Utama Bowling, located in
8352-564: The course of the plan. Brunei's first state election was held on 30 and 31 August 1962. This was to elect members to sit in the Brunei LegCo. These elected members would then be involved in discussions of governmental policies. Despite this, the Sultan still held absolute power and authority in the government. Among the political parties which contested in the election were PRB, Barisan Nasional Organisation (BNO), and Brunei United Party (BUP). The polling went on for two days, which ended with
8468-533: The debris left by the bombs after the Japanese withdrew into the forest in June 1945. The town became a focal point for important institutional and religious transformation following the war. To further Islamic matters, a board of 19 notable individuals and not all of them were religious experts, was formed in 1948. In order to increase the sultan's legitimacy in the face of British scrutiny, this reform sought to standardise religious courts, codify Islamic law , and enhance
8584-512: The development of a central business district in the 1970s and 1980s. Brunei Town was formally renamed Bandar Seri Begawan on 4 October 1970, in honour of the retired Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, with the renaming ceremony held at the capital. On 1 January 1984, at midnight, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah declared Brunei's independence at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien . The Ministry of Home Affairs has been in charge of
8700-421: The district, including Mukim Berakas 'A' , Mukim Berakas 'B' , Mukim Burong Pingai Ayer , Mukim Gadong 'A' , Mukim Gadong 'B' , Mukim Kianggeh , Mukim Kilanas , Mukim Kota Batu , Mukim Peramu , Mukim Saba , Mukim Sungai Kebun , Mukim Sungai Kedayan , and Mukim Tamoi . The Brunei–Muara District, encompassing 563 square kilometres (217 sq mi), is the smallest of Brunei’s western districts and
8816-480: The enforcement of this Written Constitution, which, hopefully, can be enforced, this mean Brunei will had its internal self government. Brunei saw fast growth in its oil industry between 1950 and 1967, with the first oil platform in Brunei was constructed off Seria in 1952. Omar Ali Saifuddien officially opened the B$ 14 million gas pipeline installation three years later. The Seria oil field produced 114,700 tons of oil per day
8932-616: The fact that they had just arrived at their destination and were therefore unfamiliar with their new surroundings. He later attended the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey , London on 2 June 1953. On 9 June, he was conferred with the Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (KCMG) by Queen Elizabeth II . The Bruneian government spent B$ 10.65 million in total on educational issues. In 1954, this policy on education
9048-557: The government provides scholarships to a limited number of students to pursue further education overseas at Al-Azhar University in Cairo , Egypt ; Islamic College in Klang ; and Madrasah Aljunied Al-Islamiah in Singapore . On 11 October 1956, seven religious schools were established in Brunei utilising the premises of both Malay and English schools, based on the officers' findings and suggestions. Nine religious instructors who were invited from
9164-558: The land. During World War II , the capital was occupied by the Japanese forces from 1941 and bombed in 1945 upon liberation by Allied forces. Brunei's independence from the British was declared on 1 January 1984 on a square in the city centre . Bandar Seri Begawan is home to Istana Nurul Iman , the largest residential palace in the world by the Guinness World Records , and Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque , Brunei's iconic landmark. It
9280-492: The late sultan upon his abdication from the throne in 1967. The city was renamed on 4 October 1970 to commemorate his contribution to the modernisation of the country during his reign in the 20th century. Prior to this, the city had been known as Brunei Town or Bandar Brunei in Malay (literally "Brunei City"). The growth and development of Brunei's historic capital city unfolded in three main stages. The first stage began in
9396-510: The law's provisions was also deeply entrenched in his mind. Originally, his plan upon returning from Kuala Belait to Brunei Town was to relax, but this was modified to studying certain parts of Islam. Events that took place during the Japanese occupation of Brunei from 1941 until 1945, when he was employed by State Secretary Ibrahim bin Mohammad Jahfar at Somobucho . Under his supervision, he
9512-479: The living circumstances and customs of the country's population. Following his trip to the interior, he prepared reports that he sent to his brother, the Sultan. He also provided the British Resident with the information so that issues raised in the reports might be addressed. He said that the government always acted with his suggestions, especially when Eric Ernest Falk Pretty was serving as the British Resident. One early important contribution of Omar Ali Saifuddien
9628-477: The low-lying, swampy Brunei River basin at various points, with Kedayan River joining close to the city. The area is bordered by ridges and estuarine plains, experiencing significant urban development. The neighboring Tutong and Belait rivers add to the region’s complex estuarine and floodplain systems. A strip of thick coal seams runs along the coastline between Bandar Seri Begawan and Muara. Brunei has an equatorial, tropical rainforest climate more subject to
9744-491: The main bus terminal. Buses heading to other towns in Brunei such as Tutong, Seria and Kuala Belait also depart from the main bus terminal and taxicab . Brunei International Airport serves the whole country. It is located 11 km (6.8 mi) from the town centre and can be reached in 10 minutes via the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Highway. Royal Brunei Airlines , the national airline, has its head office in
9860-489: The management of Islamic services under his direct control. Despite having little contact with Brunei's western regions, new groups like the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation contributed to the region's religious life in the 1950s, which witnessed a considerable increase in religious activity in the town. Despite the oil industry's fast growth in urban areas like Seria and Kuala Belait , no clear regional religious identity
9976-426: The middle of the 19th century , and its look had not altered much since Antonio Pigafetta 's time. It was dubbed a "Venice of hovels" by Rajah James Brooke in 1841. Houses were constructed on mudflats , encircled by mud at low tide and water at high tide, and a floating market was crowded with people peddling things from canoes . Despite its unattractive appearance, the town was renowned for its packed buildings and
10092-497: The other royal children of Brunei, he received an education centred on Islamic customs, etiquette , and good manners in the palace. Furthermore, without those in need of the teachings being aware of it, the household's nannies subtly instilled the Brunei spirit and courtly manners, which are structured in accordance with Islamic principles. This explains why Omar Ali Saifuddien's early behaviour and traits were more in accordance with Islamic teaching methods. He started learning to read
10208-510: The palace, he was instructed in English language, religious knowledge, customs, and traditions while he was in the palace. Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim, Shaykh Haji Abdul Halim, and T. F. Stalley were among his tutors. While he was still receiving training at the palace, he studied " Dikir Brunei" every day after supper until he became an expert in it. It is clear that his four years of formal education would not be considered sufficient to qualify him as
10324-485: The people of Brunei. Omar Ali Saifuddien established a school where students may only learn Arabic , carrying on his tradition of developing Islamic education. On 24 September 1964, he laid the "foundation stone" for the Hassanal Bolkiah Boys' Arabic Secondary School , which would become the nation's first Arabic-language institution. At this occasion, he discussed his goals for the institution: The government
10440-543: The populace as well as their quality of life. Mosques , suraus (prayer halls), religious halls, government office buildings, and schools were built all across the country to further the spread of the Islamic faith. On 4 October 1967, after 17 years in reign and a protracted illness, Omar Ali Saifuddien declared his voluntary abdication in favour of his 21-year-old oldest son, Crown Prince Hassanal Bolkiah, when his son reached teenage years and had gained some understanding of
10556-503: The population of Bandar Seri Begawan to be approximately 20,000, while the metropolitan area has around 279,924. The majority of Bruneians are Malays , with Chinese being the most significant minority group. Aboriginal groups such as the Bisaya , Belait , Dusun , Kedayan , Lun Bawang , Murut , and Tutong also exist. They are classified as part of the Malay ethnic groups and have been given
10672-414: The rapid reconstruction of Brunei Town's stores and the temporary thatched-roof rebuild of Masjid Kajang. In 1953, the town saw significant investment through a five-year National Development Plan funded with M$ 100 million, primarily for infrastructure, following Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III 's successful negotiation with the British for increased corporate taxes and expanded war reparations. In 1953,
10788-409: The royal families of Sulu and Brunei, took advantage of the void left by Kampong Ayer's loss in authority throughout the 16th and 17th centuries . Along with other important sites like Endau and Jolo , the capital became a major hub for piracy and the trade in stolen goods and slaves as the sultan attempted to regulate or tax these pirate towns. Kampong Ayer was still humble and less affluent by
10904-509: The ship's agent. The Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board is credited with the money received from these water sales. Between the city and Victoria Harbour , a passenger boat that also transports mail runs every day (except for Sundays). On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, an outboard motorboat service also carries mail and people between Bandar Seri Begawan to Bangar in Temburong District . A water taxi service known as 'penambang'
11020-530: The spacious but uncomfortable palace, where Brooke was made to feel quite welcome by the sultan and his court despite the gloomy and basic lodgings. Known as the "Venice of Borneo," Kampong Ayer is distinguished by its position on a wide river that empties into a sizeable lake and by the fact that its homes are perched on piles that are around 10 feet (3.0 m) above the tide. The formerly thriving town has lost both size and significance, as seen by its dilapidated buildings and shortage of defences. Once enclosed by
11136-600: The sultan's palace remained in Kampong Ayer. By 1910, Chinese immigrants had opened shops, further establishing the colony on land. In 1911, the water village, largely populated by Malay Muslim and a small Kedayan community in nearby areas, was home to many houses built over water. The capital endured severe hardship after losing Limbang , which had provided essential resources to river villagers; this loss also undermined Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin 's prestige and authority amid growing economic challenges. In 1920,
11252-470: The third beginning in 1906 under Malcolm McArthur 's guidance, focusing on transitioning the settlement to land. His vision aimed to address the sanitation issues that were most severe in Kampong Ayer, a water village with 8,000–10,000 residents when the Residential system was introduced. McArthur prioritised constructing a land-based colony, starting with his own residence, Bubungan Dua Belas , even though
11368-547: The town of Limbang . The main bus station in the capital is located in Jalan Cator underneath a multi-story car park. There are six bus routes servicing Bandar Seri Begawan area; the Central Line, Circle Line, Eastern Line, Southern Line, Western Line and Northern Line. Buses operate from 6.30 am until 6.00 pm except for bus No. 1 and 20 for which services extend into the night. All bus routes begin and terminate their journey at
11484-482: The waters of the Brunei River which became the predecessor of Kampong Ayer today. It became the capital of the Bruneian Sultanate from the 16th century onwards, as well as in the 19th century when it became a British protectorate. The establishment of a British Residency in the 20th century saw the establishment of modern-day administration on land, as well as the gradual resettlement of the riverine dwellers to
11600-471: Was able to emerge because of the close institutional ties between Brunei Town's religious establishment and the surrounding districts. In the post-war period, particularly throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Brunei focused on social and religious growth as well as urban reconstruction. Years of occupation during the Pacific War had left the city’s infrastructure severely damaged, necessitating quick solutions like
11716-522: Was also brought down from 20 per thousand in 1947 to 11.3 per thousand in 1953. This has been attributed to public sanitation and improvement of drainage and the provision of piped pure water to the population. Developments on education were made, as well as a written policy on education in 1952. By 1958, expenditure on education totaled B$ 4 million. Communications were also improved with new roads built and reconstruction works at Brunei Airport being completed at 1954. A $ 14 million gas industrial plant
11832-595: Was built under the plan. In 1954, survey and exploration works were undertaken by Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) on both offshore and onshore fields. By 1956, production reached 114,700 bpd . The BSP was founded in 1957. With 705,000 tons of natural gasoline (gasoline) produced from gas pipeline planting in Seria, the yield of crude oil has reached 39.5 million tons. The Second RKN was launched in 1962. This strategy aims to propel Brunei's economic and social development to new heights. One obvious indicator of economic growth
11948-630: Was chaired by Chief Minister of Brunei Dato Marsal bin Maun . Notably, Omar Ali Saifuddien decided in 1963 to open religious classes for adults. It aims to provide a better understanding for the people about the importance of obeying Allah , the Prophet and the Ruler. This practice, initiated by an emergency meeting of the Religious Affairs Committee on 7 January 1963, aimed to foster and protect loyalty to
12064-638: Was developed on land during the third phase, particularly after 1906. Over 300 years of intermittent conflict between the Malay Muslim tribes and Spanish conquistadors, known in Spanish chronicles as the Moro Wars , began in 1578 when Catholic Spaniards attacked Kampong Ayer during the Castilian War . Pirates, many of whom were Muslim sailors from the southern Philippines and Borneo, including destitute princes from
12180-1070: Was encouraged to study, review, and analyse the Criminal Procedure Code, which he had started to learn at Kuala Belait, as well as the tale of him and the District Officer Ibrahim bin Andor trying a case together. After the Second World War , in 1947, he was subsequently appointed a member of the State Council and chairman of the Syariah Court . He had the Wazir (Vizier) title Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara conferred on him by his brother, Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin on 15 July 1947. Following his appointment as Wazir, he frequently traveled to Brunei's interior regions in particular to get insight into
12296-504: Was entrusted with elders who imparted knowledge and skills necessary to finish his upbringing, specifically about Islamic rules and the traditions and rituals that the royal family had followed in the past. Regular instructors for him included Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim bin Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Anak Abdul Kahar, a specialist in Islamic customs and ceremonies and knowledgeable about the faith. At
12412-538: Was established in September 1963, but Brunei chose not to join the federation for its own reasons. Even the initial date for the federation (which was 31 August 1963) was postponed to 16 September, no agreement was reached between the two sides. First of all, Omar Ali Saifuddien disagrees with the Federal (Central) Government , which only permits Brunei to retain and profit from its oil production for ten years, following which
12528-591: Was first presented. The equipment of educational institutions, including secondary schools , adult education , and vocational training , is to be determined by this policy for Brunei. This plan calls for the development of thirty schools, and starting in November 1953, free meals will be served at each school. The English-language Raja Isteri Girls' High School in Brunei Town was finished in 1957, but only goes up to Form 3. These children will go to Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien College to sit for Forms 4 and 5 after completing
12644-447: Was popular in Brunei because it supported the Sultan's status as a constitutional monarch while promoting independence through constitutional means. Colonial authorities supported the goals of the PRB, but they believed that the organisation's demands for equal pay , worker welfare, ministerial governance, and public elections were too extreme. The Sultan's resistance to British proposals led to
12760-495: Was saved from his palace by Digby Willoughby and a small group of Gurkha soldiers , earning the Sultan's unwavering gratitude. After the rebellion, the discussion of joining the proposed North Borneo Federation continued. Omar Ali Saifuddien sent a delegation to attend meetings of the Malaysian Solidarity Consolidation Committee (MSCC). The views of the people were sought by the committee, which
12876-556: Was the Secretary of State for the Colonies . The British Government later accepted the draft constitution. Among the things stated in the constitution were: The Sultan was made the Supreme Head of State. Brunei was responsible for its internal administration. The British Government was now responsible for foreign and defence affairs only. The post of Resident was abolished and replaced by
12992-528: Was the 28th Sultan of Brunei , reigning from 1950 until his abdication in 1967 to his oldest son, Hassanal Bolkiah . Over the course of his 17-year reign, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III significantly altered Brunei. He also created the Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) philosophy , which is the country's guiding ideology . In order to prepare his people for the restoration of the state's sovereign rights—which had been started by his predecessor and spurred by
13108-407: Was the first step towards drafting a written constitution for Brunei. The commission, which had seven appointed members and was called Jawatankuasa Menyiasat Perlembagaan (JKPP) or Tujuh Serangkai , demonstrated his willingness to take into account the opinions of the people in spite of his absolute power. They were tasked with gathering public feedback, creating an extensive report, and offering
13224-425: Was to finalise the key concepts from the previous talks. Later, on 2 November 1958, a special meeting chaired by the Sultan's adviser resolved to send a delegation led by the Sultan himself to London for further constitutional negotiations. Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang and Neil Lawson were chosen to accompany the delegation because of their legal expertise and roles as consultants on constitutional matters. Following
13340-523: Was to join the Federation, Brunei would not have achieve full independence as it was viewed as a transfer of power from Britain to Malaya. On 8 December 1962, the PRB led a rebellion against the government . With British military aid deployed from Singapore, the rebellion was later crushed and the PRB were defeated. Notably, the 2nd Gurkha Rifles was sent to Brunei in 1962, the year the Brunei Revolt started. Omar Ali Saifuddien and his son, Hassanal Bolkiah
13456-583: Was to regularise Islamic administration in Brunei. In 1948, a religious council, comprising the Mohammedan Religious Advisers was formed. Due to his initiative, the council met for the first time on 31 January 1948. He himself was appointed chairman of this council. After examining several laws on Islamic affairs in the Malay Peninsula , the board made new proposals regarding the religious administration in Brunei. The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
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