| James Kon |
MINISTER of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong said Brunei needs to enhance its tourism offerings to keep up with the increase in visitors.
Brunei Darussalam saw a 7.4 per cent increase in visitor arrivals last year compared to the figure for 2017, according to statistics from the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.
Speaking at the launch of the Brunei River Heritage Trail cruise package yesterday at the Dermaga Diraja, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali added that the ministry believes this figure will “steadily increase over time”.
He also noted that with the increased connectivity brought about by the addition of new routes to Royal Brunei Airlines’ (RB) list of destinations, Brunei will “see an increasing demand for more diverse tourism packages and offerings, not only for the international market, but also for the local market”.
“I hope we will all continue to do our part to preserve our culture and heritage, and continue to support and promote tourism for Brunei Darussalam,” he said.
Touching on tourism, the minister highlighted, “Alhamdulillah, Brunei Darussalam is experiencing a positive drive for tourism development. However, we must also strive to maintain, conserve and preserve our values, heritage, culture, and history.
“This Brunei River Heritage Trail package seeks to educate and create awareness both for locals and foreign visitors on the historical development and birth of what we now know as Brunei Darussalam.”
Giving his views on the Brunei River, the minister said, “The Brunei River flows through our capital Bandar Seri Begawan and into Brunei Bay. It is the shortest major river in Brunei Darussalam, but also the most important. Historically, the pristine thick jungles of Borneo led to the establishment of our traditional settlements on stilts on the water and riverbanks, which we now know as Kampong Ayer.
“Traditional boats such as the perahu or sampan – some of which you still see being used today – were used on the river [by Kampong Ayer residents] as the main method of transportation, communication and trade with those living inland.
“Everyone is welcome to explore the areas along the Brunei River, including those who are interested in conducting research and educational activities on our rich and humble history.”
Also present at the launch were members of the Legislative Council, foreign dignitaries, permanent secretaries, members of the Brunei Tourism Board, deputy permanent secretaries, the Brunei-Muara District Officer, and village heads.