Answers to Written Questions PT12 and PT27

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YANG BERHORMAT DAYANG HAJAH SAFIAH BINTI SHEIKH HAJI ABD SALAM AND YANG BERHORMAT DR. AWANG HAJI MAHALI BIN HAJI MOMIN

QUESTION:

YANG BERHORMAT DAYANG HAJAH SAFIAH BINTI SHEIKH HAJI ABD SALAM asks the MINISTER OF PRIMARY RESOURCES AND TOURISM to state to what extent the proposals by the Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS) in the ‘White Paper On Making Brunei Darussalam The Preferred Holiday Destination For All By 2025’, published in 2015, identifying four potential areas including Jerudong and Kampung Ayer, have been considered in tourism development planning.

YANG BERHORMAT DR. AWANG HAJI MAHALI BIN HAJI MOMIN asks the MINISTER OF PRIMARY RESOURCES AND TOURISM to state the long-term strategies and MPRT planning in phase 3 (2029-2030) of the MPRT plan, for the development of attractive Islamic tourism products. This requires solid support from all Ministries to ensure the success of the projects, considering the country's great potential in Islamic tourism with access to 2 billion global Muslim residents.

YANG BERHORMAT MINISTER OF PRIMARY RESOURCES AND TOURISM

ANSWER:

The Ministry appreciates and recognizes the comprehensive vision outlined in the White Paper to make Negara Brunei Darussalam a preferred holiday destination by 2025. While several strategic initiatives proposed in the White Paper, such as the Jerudong Integrated Leisure Destination and National Arts and Performance Creative Theatre, require significant investment from the private sector along with entrepreneurial drive, there are also other aspects that have been actively implemented.

For example, the development of eco-resorts, community-based tourism, and facilities that promote local products, eateries, and local businesses have been executed, though not necessarily in cluster form as suggested in the proposal paper. These initiatives are significant components of the country's tourism strategy and are being implemented gradually. The Government, in collaboration with local businesses, continues to encourage the growth of eco-tourism and introduce the uniqueness of local products to tourists.

Additionally, the Ministry has undertaken various efforts to improve infrastructure and tourist facilities in Kampong Ayer and the surrounding areas. These include updating tourist route guides such as the Bandar Seri Begawan Heritage Trail and Kampong Ayer Walking Trail, along with constructing safer concrete pathways in Kampong Ayer. An Audio Guide via QR code was introduced at the Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery in 2024. Tourist information signage is also installed along concrete paths and main jetties to provide a visual and historical experience. Furthermore, the upgrading of the Kampong Ayer Cultural Gallery with Phase 1 completed in 2024 and Phase 2 expected by 2026. Other projects include signage installation at jetties to support river-related tourism activities.

EDUCATIONAL TOURISM

In terms of educational tourism, efforts are being made to strengthen collaboration with international and local universities to attract more students and researchers, making Negara Brunei Darussalam a unique educational destination. Initiatives with travel agencies and cultural institutions are also in progress to introduce tourism packages showcasing the uniqueness of Islamic heritage and the country's educational institutions.

Negara Brunei Darussalam offers an immersive learning experience highlighting biodiversity, cultural heritage, and sustainable development efforts. These initiatives include planned study tours and workshops focusing on topics such as rainforests, traditional arts, and Islamic culture. Additionally, Brunei offers educational programs for learning English and summer camps that attract many international students compared to other destinations in the region, due to the country's peaceful, safe, and green environment. Brunei also organizes numerous student exchange programs with countries like Singapore, Japan, and others, boosting its position as an attractive educational destination.

The strategic emphasis on educational tourism not only fosters cultural exchange but also reinforces the country's standing as a center for sustainable learning experiences in Southeast Asia.

Notably, the Ministry, through the Department of Tourism Development, conducted a familiarization visit for educational institutes from Japan in 2024 to attract more Japanese students. Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) organized the UBD-AUN Summer Camp 2024 for two weeks, attended by over 75 international students from 21 ASEAN University Network (AUN) member universities.

Additionally, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) organized UTB Odyssey 2024 lasting 15 days, attended by 12 international students from ASEAN countries and Canada. This program aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the cultural diversity, natural environment, and Islamic heritage of Brunei. Participants explored the rich culture through experiences like jungle-to-plate cuisine, craft workshops, and exposure to Bruneian arts, music, and customs. The itinerary also included visits to exhibition galleries, museums, and historical landmarks that provided deep insights into Brunei's Islamic heritage and historical significance.

ISLAMIC TOURISM

As is known, Islamic Tourism is indeed a substantial potential attraction in the country, contributing to national revenue through the tourism sector. Brunei Darussalam is renowned for its peace and beautiful Islamic heritage. Though this sector is in the third phase of the national tourism industry direction, initial steps have been undertaken to accelerate its growth.

Currently, several Islamic travel agents offer tour packages to places like the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque known for its beautiful and grand architecture, Jame’ Asr Hassanal Bolkiah synonymous with a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, the Islamic Calligraphy Center under Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah displaying important Islamic calligraphy tradition in culture and history, and the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Islamic Treasures Gallery (BKISHHB) which serves as a cultural center and exhibition of valuable Islamic artifacts.

In addition to mosque visits, agents promoting Islamic tourism packages offer Mosque Tours, the Ramadhan Experience in Negara Brunei Darussalam, Hari Raya Aidil Fitri celebrations, and opportunities to join the Maulidur Rasul celebration parades. Tourists can also witness various local Islamic traditions still practiced today, making the country an ideal Islamic tourism destination. The Imarah Masjid Program attracts tourists to Brunei, offering opportunities to visit and worship at beautiful and historic mosques. Brunei is also a layover destination for Umrah pilgrims from Indonesia before proceeding to the Holy Land.

Moreover, tourists can visit historical sites that reveal stories of the early spread of Islam in Brunei, such as the Kota Batu Archaeological Park, the Malay Technology Museum, the Brunei History Center, and the Royal Regalia Museum.

The Department of Tourism Development has also collaborated with the Philippines via a memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting tourist arrivals and supporting the growth of niche tourism sectors, like Islamic tourism.