Muara: Brunei's Coastal Gem

• HelloSelamat petang
  [suh-lah-muht puh-tahng]
• GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [suh-lah-muht tihng-gahl]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoTidak
  [tee-dahk]
• Please/You're welcomeSila
  [see-lah]
• Thank youTerima kasih
  [tuh-ree-mah kah-see]
• Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [mah-ahf]
• How are you?Apa khabar?
  [ah-pah kah-bahr]
• Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?
  [bah-ee. dahn kah-moo]
• Do you speak English?Boleh cakap English?
  [boh-leh chah-kahp Ing-glis]
• I don't understandSaya tidak faham
  [sah-yah tee-dahk fah-hahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya mahu melihat menu, sila
  [sah-yah mah-hoo muh-lee-haht meh-nuh, see-lah]
• I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sah-yah tee-dahk mah-kahn dy-ah-ng]
• Cheers!Sihat!
  [see-haht]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, sila
  [sah-yah een-geen muhm-bah-yahr, see-lah]

• Help!Tolong!
  [toh-lohng]
• Go away!Pergi!
  [puhr-gee]
• Call the Police!Panggil polis!
  [pahng-geel poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Panggil doktor!
  [pahng-geel dohk-tuhr]
• 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 een-geen muhm-buh-lee]
• I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat
  [sah-yah huhn-yah muh-lee-haht]
• How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [buh-rah-pah hahr-gahn-yah]
• That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [ee-too tuh-ruh-lah mah-hahl]
• Can you lower the price?Boleh kurangkan harga?
  [boh-leh koor-ahn-gahn hahr-gah]

• What time is it?Pukul berapa sekarang?
  [poo-kool buh-rah-pah suh-kah-rahng]
• It's one o'clockPukul satu
  [poo-kool sah-too]
• Half past (10)Pukul setengah (sepuluh)
  [poo-kool suh-tuh-ngah (suh-poo-looh)]
• MorningPagi
  [pah-gee]
• AfternoonPetang
  [puh-tahng]
• EveningMalam
  [mah-lahm]
• YesterdaySemalam
  [suh-mah-lahm]
• TodayHari ini
  [hah-ree ee-nee]
• TomorrowEsok
  [eh-sohk]
• 1Satu
  [sah-too]
• 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
• 3Tiga
  [tee-gah]
• 4Empat
  [uhm-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Enam
  [uh-nahm]
• 7Tujuh
  [too-joo]
• 8Lapan
  [lah-pahn]
• 9Sembilan
  [suhm-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-maht-nyah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Boleh tunjukkan saya (di peta)?
  [boh-leh toon-jook-kahn sah-yah (dee peh-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Bila yang seterusnya (bas)?
  [bee-lah yahng suh-tuh-roos-nyah (bahs)]
• A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ....)
  [sah-too tee-keht (keh ....)]

Before the arrival of Western powers, Muara was an integral part of the Bruneian Empire. It was primarily a fishing village and a trading hub due to its strategic location along the coast. The local population engaged in maritime trade with neighboring regions, exchanging goods such as spices, gold, and textiles.

In the late 19th century, the British North Borneo Chartered Company began to show interest in Muara due to its potential as a deep-water port. By 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate, and Muara's significance grew as the British sought to exploit its natural resources and strategic maritime position.

The establishment of Muara Port in the early 20th century marked a significant development in the region. The port became the primary gateway for maritime trade in Brunei, facilitating the import and export of goods. This development spurred economic growth and led to the modernization of Muara's infrastructure.

During World War II, Muara was occupied by Japanese forces. The port and surrounding areas were strategically important for military logistics and supplies. The occupation led to significant hardships for the local population, but the end of the war saw Muara returning to British control and beginning a period of reconstruction.

Following Brunei's independence in 1984, Muara continued to play a vital role in the nation's economy. The port underwent further expansion and modernization, becoming a key component of Brunei's trade infrastructure. Today, Muara is a blend of historical significance and modern development, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and economic importance.

Muara is home to a diverse cultural heritage that includes traditional Bruneian customs and practices. The local community continues to celebrate various festivals and cultural events, preserving their historical roots while embracing modernity. The area is known for its vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and culinary delights that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Brunei.

Muara is located in the Brunei-Muara District of Brunei. The closest international airport is Brunei International Airport in the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, approximately 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Muara, which typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes by road. Alternatively, you can use public buses that connect Bandar Seri Begawan to Muara.

Muara is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through local ride-hailing apps. Public buses operate within Muara and connect to nearby towns. Renting a car can also be convenient for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.

The official currency of Brunei is the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is interchangeable with the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Muara, so withdrawing cash is convenient.

Muara is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best.

In case of an emergency, dial 993 for police assistance, 995 for fire services, and 991 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Muara. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering 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 smile and a slight bow of the head. A handshake is common among men but less so among women. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Muara like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh seafood 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 visiting the Muara Beach for a relaxing day by the sea. For a unique experience, take a boat ride to Pulau Muara Besar, an island known for its natural beauty and wildlife.