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Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre: Preserving Bruneian Heritage

Discover Brunei's artistic soul: Witness traditional crafts, engage with artisans, and explore the nation's rich cultural heritage.

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The Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre in Bandar Seri Begawan is dedicated to preserving and promoting Brunei's traditional arts and crafts. Visitors can observe artisans at work and purchase locally crafted products, including woven textiles, silverware, and wood carvings. The center plays a vital role in training young Bruneian artisans and ensuring the survival of these ancient skills.

A brief summary to Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-11:30 am
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the center's Instagram page for information on opening times, available classes, and any ongoing renovations.
  • Bargain for the price when purchasing souvenirs.
  • Take your time to observe the artisans at work and learn about the intricate techniques involved in each craft.
  • Consider participating in a workshop to create your own Bruneian craft.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Bandar Seri Begawan, the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre is located along Jalan Residency, approximately 600 meters east of Sungai Kianggeh. The walk is a pleasant way to experience the city, offering views of the Brunei River and Kampong Ayer. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The public bus is an affordable way to reach the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre. From the main bus terminal on Jalan Cator, take a bus that travels along Jalan Residency. The average bus fare is BND 1 per ride. Check the TransportBN app for bus routes and schedules.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bandar Seri Begawan. A taxi ride from the city center to the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre typically costs between BND 5 and BND 10, depending on the distance and traffic. Taxis in Brunei are metered, with a base price of BND 3.50 for the first minute or kilometer, and an additional BND 0.20 for every 250m or 15 seconds. You can also use ride-hailing apps to book a taxi.

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Discover more about Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre

Located along the Brunei River in Bandar Seri Begawan, the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's rich artistic heritage. Established in 1975 and moved to its current location in 1984, the center aims to revive and promote Brunei's traditional crafts. Visitors can explore a diverse range of locally made products, including hand-woven baskets, brassware, silverware, wood carvings, and the famous Kain Tenunan, a brocade woven with gold and silver threads. These crafts showcase intricate techniques and provide insight into the daily lives and traditions of Brunei's communities. The center serves as both a marketplace and a learning space, where tourists can observe artisans at work and even participate in workshops to create their own crafts. The center's origins trace back to the height of the Brunei Empire in the 15th and 16th centuries, a period when Brunei was a major trading hub and its artisans were renowned for their skill and creativity. Over time, many of these crafts faced decline, prompting the government to establish the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Training Centre to ensure their survival. Today, the center offers courses in weaving, silver smiting, woodcarving, brass smiting, basketry, and songkok making. A visit to the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the fine arts that have carried Brunei's heritage for centuries. It's an essential stop for anyone interested in understanding the local culture and acquiring high-quality, Bruneian-made souvenirs.

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