The timber boardwalk
Over dark water.
Luagan Lalak is a recreational forest park in Mukim Labi, Belait District, centred on a calm seasonal lake. A protected area under the Forestry Department, it matters because it is a natural wetland rather than the plantation forest found in some other parks, and it makes a pleasant short stop among water and trees on the way inland. The park lies nearly 100 km from Bandar Seri Begawan. In Brunei Malay «luagan» means a large body of still water, while «lalak» is believed to come from an error of spelling or pronunciation. The habitat keeps its natural cover, and it is valued for protecting biodiversity and the wetland ecosystem. A long timber boardwalk runs over dark water among slender trees, mirrored on the still surface. Elsewhere a paved path drops among palms and trees towards the bridge, looking over the lake from above. The water level rises and falls with the rain, so the place can change greatly from one season to the next. No public transport reaches it, so you need a private vehicle. From Kampong Sungai Liang take Jalan Labi for another 25 km, and the trip from the capital takes a good while. Bring water and mosquito repellent, and watch for slippery timber after rain, as some boardwalk planks may be damaged. Do not pick plants, and take your rubbish with you.
Over dark water.
Changing with the rain.
Down to the bridge.
Jalan Labi, Belait District
No, you need a private vehicle.
The level changes with the rain and season.