Скачать или смотреть Brunei Tourism Culture, Nature, and the Economic Contribution of the Sultanate’s Tourism Industry

Brunei Tourism: Culture, Nature, and Economic Contribution of the Sultanate’s Travel Industry
វិស័យទេសចរណ៍ប្រ៊ុយណេ៖ វប្បធម៌ ធម្មជាតិ និងការរួមចំណែកសេដ្ឋកិច្ចនៃឧស្សាហកម្មទេសចរណ៍របស់ព្រះរាជាណាចក្រនេះ


BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN — Brunei Darussalam, a small but prosperous nation on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, has increasingly positioned tourism as an important sector for economic diversification beyond its traditional dependence on oil and natural gas. Known internationally as the “Abode of Peace,” the country offers a unique blend of Islamic heritage, royal traditions, pristine rainforests, and cultural experiences that attract visitors from across the world.

Although tourism remains a relatively modest contributor to the national economy compared with the energy sector, the government has been promoting the industry through a strategy that highlights eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and Islamic heritage tourism. These initiatives aim to present Brunei as a peaceful destination that emphasizes environmental preservation and cultural authenticity.

One of the country’s main travel hubs is Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city and administrative center. The city features several prominent attractions, including the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, widely regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful mosques due to its golden dome and marble architecture. Another key landmark is Kampong Ayer, a historic water village built on stilts along the Brunei River that has often been described as the “Venice of the East.” Visitors can also explore the Royal Regalia Museum, which displays ceremonial items and royal gifts belonging to the Sultan, as well as the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the country’s largest mosque.

Beyond the capital, Brunei’s natural environment plays a central role in attracting international tourists. Ulu Temburong National Park, often referred to as the “Green Jewel of Brunei,” is one of the most well-preserved rainforests in Southeast Asia. Accessible primarily by boat and road through neighboring Malaysian territory, the park offers activities such as canopy walkway tours, jungle trekking, river exploration, and wildlife observation. The government promotes the area as a flagship destination for eco-tourism.

Other recreational destinations include Jerudong Park, a large entertainment and leisure complex known for its theme park attractions and family-friendly facilities. Meanwhile, Tasek Lama Recreational Park, located near the capital, provides hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural forest landscapes that appeal to visitors seeking nature experiences within the city.

Cultural heritage also plays a significant role in Brunei’s tourism appeal. The country’s governance system, known as the Malay Islamic Monarchy, shapes many aspects of daily life and public culture. Visitors often experience traditional Malay customs, halal culinary traditions, and Islamic festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Historic communities like Kampong Ayer offer insights into river-based lifestyles that have existed for centuries.

Tourism development in Brunei focuses on several key sectors, including eco-tourism, cultural tourism, Islamic tourism, adventure tourism, and leisure tourism. By emphasizing these areas, the government hopes to attract visitors seeking unique experiences rather than mass tourism.

In terms of economic contribution, tourism revenue has grown gradually over the past decade. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Brunei recorded approximately 4.45 million visitor arrivals in 2019, marking the highest level in the country’s tourism history. International tourism receipts were estimated at around US$190 million in 2018, while tourism earnings reached about BND111 million in 2019. Despite these figures, tourism contributes less than 1 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, reflecting the continued dominance of the oil and gas sector.

Nevertheless, policymakers view tourism as a strategic opportunity to diversify Brunei’s economy and promote sustainable development. Through the preservation of rainforests, promotion of Islamic heritage sites, and expansion of cultural tourism experiences, the country aims to strengthen its position as a niche destination in Southeast Asia.

(Extracted from official news by Southeast Asia News)