Bangar: The Hidden Gem of Brunei

• HelloSelamat petang
  [suh-lah-mat puh-tang]
• GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [suh-lah-mat ting-gal]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoTidak
  [tee-dak]
• Please/You're welcomeSila
  [see-lah]
• Thank youTerima kasih
  [teh-ree-ma ka-see]
• Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [mah-af]
• How are you?Apa khabar?
  [ah-pah kah-bar]
• Fine. And you?Baik. Dan awda?
  [bah-eek. dan ow-dah]
• Do you speak English?Awda boleh berbahasa Inggeris?
  [ow-dah boh-lay ber-bah-hah-sah ing-ga-rees]
• I don't understandSaya tidak faham
  [sah-yah tee-dak fah-hahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya mahu lihat menu, sila
  [sah-yah mah-hoo lee-hat meh-noo, see-lah]
• I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sah-yah tee-dak mah-kan dah-yang]
• Cheers!Kanpai!
  [kan-pai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, sila
  [sah-yah in-geen mem-bah-yar, see-lah]

• Help!Tolong!
  [toh-long]
• Go away!Pergi jauh!
  [per-gee jow]
• Call the Police!Panggil polis!
  [pang-geel po-lees]
• Call a doctor!Panggil doktor!
  [pang-geel dok-tor]
• I'm lostSaya sesat
  [sah-yah suh-saht]
• I'm illSaya sakit
  [sah-yah sah-keet]

• I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sah-yah in-geen mem-buh-lee]
• I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat
  [sah-yah hun-yah meh-lee-hat]
• How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [ber-ah-pah har-gan-yah]
• That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [ee-too ter-lah-loo mah-hal]
• Can you lower the price?Boleh kurangkan harga?
  [boh-lay koor-ang-gan har-gah]

• What time is it?Pukul berapa sekarang?
  [poo-kool ber-ah-pah suh-kah-rang]
• It's one o'clockPukul satu
  [poo-kool sah-too]
• Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
  [suh-teng-ah (suh-poo-looh)]
• MorningPagi
  [pah-gee]
• AfternoonPetang
  [puh-tang]
• EveningMalam
  [mah-lam]
• YesterdaySemalam
  [seh-mah-lam]
• TodayHari ini
  [hah-ree ee-nee]
• TomorrowEsok
  [eh-sohk]
• 1Satu
  [sah-too]
• 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
• 3Tiga
  [tee-gah]
• 4Empat
  [em-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Enam
  [eh-nahm]
• 7Tujuh
  [too-joo]
• 8Lapan
  [lah-pahn]
• 9Sembilan
  [sem-bee-lahn]
• 10Sepuluh
  [suh-poo-looh]

• Where's a/the...?Di mana...
  [dee mah-nah]
• What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
  [ah-pah ah-lah-mat-nyah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Boleh tunjukkan kepada saya (di peta)?
  [boh-lay toon-jook-kan keh-pah sah-yah (dee peh-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Bila yang seterusnya (bas)?
  [bee-lah yang suh-ter-oos-nyah (bahs)]
• A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ....)
  [sah-too tee-keht (keh ....)]

Bangar, situated in the Temburong District of Brunei, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally settled by the indigenous Iban people, known for their intricate longhouses and vibrant cultural practices. The Iban's traditional way of life, which includes fishing, hunting, and farming, has left an indelible mark on the region. Visitors can still witness traditional Iban customs and crafts, such as weaving and beadwork, which have been passed down through generations.

In the 19th century, Bangar and the greater Temburong District came under the influence of the Brooke Dynasty, a British family who ruled the neighboring state of Sarawak. Although the Brookes did not directly govern Brunei, their presence influenced the region's political and economic landscape. Trade between Brunei and Sarawak flourished, leading to the growth of Bangar as a local trading hub. The remnants of colonial architecture and trading posts can still be seen in certain parts of the town.

The formal establishment of the Sultanate of Brunei in the 14th century significantly impacted Bangar and the surrounding regions. The sultanate's influence extended throughout Borneo, including the Temburong District. Bangar served as a strategic point for the sultanate, facilitating trade and political control. The spread of Islam during this period also shaped the cultural and religious landscape of Bangar, with mosques and Islamic schools becoming central to community life.

During World War II, Bangar, like the rest of Brunei, fell under Japanese occupation from 1941 to 1945. The Japanese military presence disrupted daily life and brought significant hardships to the local population. However, this period also sparked a sense of resilience and resistance among the people. Historical markers and memorials in Bangar commemorate the bravery and sacrifices of those who lived through this tumultuous time.

Following Brunei's independence from British protection in 1984, Bangar underwent significant development. The government invested in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, transforming Bangar into a modern town while preserving its cultural heritage. The Ulu Temburong National Park, established in the late 1990s, has become a major attraction, highlighting the region's commitment to environmental conservation. The park offers a glimpse into the pristine rainforests and diverse wildlife of Temburong, attracting eco-tourists from around the world.

Bangar is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting various festivals and events that celebrate its rich heritage. The annual Temburong District Festival showcases traditional music, dance, and crafts, drawing visitors from across Brunei and beyond. Other significant events include the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, which mark the end of Ramadan and are characterized by communal feasts and prayers. These cultural festivities provide a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the local customs and traditions of Bangar.

Bangar is located in the Temburong District of Brunei. The nearest airport is Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan, approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to the capital's ferry terminal. A scenic 45-minute boat ride will take you across the Brunei Bay to Bangar. Alternatively, you can drive to Bangar via the Ulu Temburong National Park route, which involves crossing the border into Malaysia briefly before re-entering Brunei.

Bangar is a small town, making it easy to navigate on foot. For longer distances within the Temburong District, local taxis and car rentals are available. There are also buses that connect Bangar to other parts of Brunei. Hiring a local guide with a vehicle can provide a more in-depth exploration of the area, especially for visits to the Ulu Temburong National Park.

The official currency of Brunei is the Brunei Dollar (BND). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available, but it is a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.

Bangar is generally a safe destination for tourists. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Petty thefts can occur, so use common sense and take standard precautions.

In case of emergency, dial 993 for police assistance and 991 for medical emergencies. The Bangar Health Centre can handle minor medical issues, while more serious conditions may require transfer to a hospital in Bandar Seri Begawan. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, including removing your shoes before entering homes and mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Selamat' (peace) or a simple handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Bangar like a local, visit the Tamu Bangar market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Bruneian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss a trip to the Ulu Temburong National Park for a unique rainforest adventure. For a traditional experience, try staying in a local homestay.