The water village houses
Six traditional models.
Yu Chu Chin — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Yu Chu Chin — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Kurun (talk) — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Tawinann — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Tawinann — CC BY-SA 4.0
The Malay Technology Museum in Kota Batu shows the means and crafts by which Brunei's people once lived, both in the water village and on dry land. It is a big white building with a tiered roof near the Brunei River, giving a clear picture of a fading way of life before you visit Kampong Ayer itself. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah opened it on 29 February 1988, funded by the Shell group at about B$7 million, and it was built from 1985 to 1987 on 15 hectares. It stands near the tombs of Sultan Sharif Ali and Sultan Bolkiah and belongs to a complex with the Brunei Museum and Maritime Museum. Its aim is to document tools, many of which are no longer used today. The first hall has six model water village houses from the late 19th century, made of traditional materials such as palm leaf and bamboo, with forms marking different social ranks. The second shows weaving, gold and silver work and boat building. The third covers inland techniques, with fishing gear, baskets and farming, in full-size scenes. It is close to the Maritime Museum, so pair them in half a day. Sources differ on Friday: the tourism site says closed, while one guide gives two sessions, so check ahead. It is air-conditioned and suits the heat. Ask before taking pictures, do not touch the displays, and respect the nearby tombs if you visit them, with modest dress and quiet.
Six traditional models.
Weaving, gold and boats.
At life size.
Jalan Kota Batu, Bandar Seri Begawan
Sources differ, so check ahead.
Yes, it explains the water village's houses and crafts.
