Bangar

About this place

Bangar is the town and administrative centre of Temburong District, a part of Brunei separated from the rest of the country by the Malaysian state of Sarawak. It had only 451 people in the 2021 count, yet it is the gateway to Ulu Temburong National Park, a quiet place with small shops and colourful public buildings on the Temburong River. The origin of its name is unsettled. An official document says it describes a swamp of dead wood, while others trace it to a Murut word for boards, once brought here to build houses and boats near the town creek. It was once split into old and new towns, later a single name. Bangar Bridge was built around 1969, joining its parts in place of boats. The centre has modern tree-shaped canopies in yellow and brown over parking and the market. Building fronts carry a huge mural map of the district, along with white-arched government buildings and big letters spelling Temburong. From the bridge you see the brown river and trees, with green mountains behind the town on clear days. It lies on a road linking Limbang and Lawas in Sarawak, so bring your passport if you cross. Rain falls all year, so carry an umbrella or jacket. You can enter the national park only on a licensed tour, so arrange it in advance. Stalls provide basic food and crafts. Bring enough cash, dress modestly and respect the town's quiet.