Belait Museum: A Cultural Window into Brunei's Oil-Rich District

The Belait Museum, situated in Kuala Belait, serves as a captivating portal into the multifaceted history and cultural tapestry of the Belait District. Established in 2016, this museum is housed in a building with a rich history, originally constructed in 1938 as the residence for the Deputy British Resident and later serving as the official residence for Belait District Officers until 1990. The building itself is a blend of local Malay and colonial architectural styles. The museum's exhibits offer insights into the cultural heritage, natural resources, and historical development of the Belait region. The five galleries within the museum showcase a diverse range of artifacts and information : * **Cultural Heritage Gallery:** Showcases the diverse ethnic groups of the Belait district, including the Dusun and Iban people, with displays of traditional clothing, agricultural tools, and ritual objects. * **History of Administration and Development of the Belait District Gallery:** Details the administrative evolution of the Belait district with artifacts excavated from Lumut. * **History of the Oil and Gas Industry Gallery:** Explores the history of Brunei's oil and gas industry, highlighting its significance to the Belait district. * **Natural Heritage Gallery:** Features the flora and fauna of the Belait region, including animal skeletons and information about the local ecosystem. * **Temporary Gallery:** Hosts rotating exhibitions, which have included displays of His Majesty the Sultan's visits to the Belait district. Visitors can explore the museum's collections at their own pace, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Belait district and its role in Brunei's historical narrative.