Museums in Bandar Seri Begawan

 

For a small country, Bandar Seri Begawan and Brunei have plenty of museums to visit. Make sure you see at least some of them when you are in the country.

Brunei Museum

This museum is situated on an archeological site at Kota Batu about 5 km from Bandar Seri Begawan. It is the largest in the country. The museum’s focus is on varied topics such as Islamic history, natural history, Brunei artifacts and customs, ceramics, and the oil industry of Brunei.

The Malay Technology Museum

This is right next door to the Brunei Museum. It houses a water village model and artifacts found in a water village.

The Royal Regalia Building

This museum houses articles associated with the sultan. It has various regalia used in his coronation and offers a sumptuous historical feast for the eyes.

The Brunei History Center

This museum is situated next to the Royal Regalia building. The public display has a wealth of information on the genealogy of the sultans including replicas and brass rubbings of tombs.

Bubongan Duabelas

This name translates to the House of Twelve Roofs and is located in Jalan Residency. Built in 1906 and formerly the official residence of British residents and high commissioners in Brunei, it is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Bandar Seri Begawan. It is now a gallery that exhibits artifacts that establish the long standing relationship between the Sultanate and the United Kingdom.

The Arts and Handicrafts Center

Again situated in Jalan Residency, it exhibits Brunei's fine arts and crafts that date back to centuries. They are part of the nation's proud heritage. The center also conducts courses in silverware, brassware, woodcarving, songkok-making, weaving, and basketry. It has a fine collection of arts and crafts.

Bandar Seri Begawan has an interesting mélange of museums that depict the true cultural and historical essence of the city.