Tasek Merimbun: Brunei's Serene Lake & Heritage Park

Tasek Merimbun, Brunei's largest natural lake, lies approximately 70 kilometers from Bandar Seri Begawan in the Tutong District. The lake is the centerpiece of the 7,800-hectare Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park, Brunei's first national park and largest wildlife sanctuary. Declared an ASEAN Heritage Park in 1984, it is recognized for its biodiversity conservation and cultural significance.The S-shaped lake is fed by the Sungai Meluncur and Sungai Bang Oncom rivers, which flow through peat forests, giving the water its distinctive blackish hue due to the release of tannins from falling leaves. An island resembling a turtle, Pulau Labi-Labi, sits in the middle of the lake and is accessible via a wooden footbridge.Tasek Merimbun is home to diverse flora and fauna, including over 200 species of birds, making it an Important Bird Area. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot proboscis monkeys and various reptile species. The park also boasts a variety of pitcher plants and valuable agarwood.Historically, the area has been inhabited by the Dusun people for centuries, who consider the lake and surrounding forests sacred. According to local sources, the lake was discovered by Imbun, son of a village chief, who found the area abundant with food and brought his family to settle there.Visitors can explore the park's nature trails, relax at lakeside gazebos, and enjoy environment-friendly boat rides on the lake. An observation tower offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park also features a museum that showcases the history of the area, its wildlife, and local handicrafts.