Kampong Ayer, as the world’s largest floating water village, keeps a relatively low profile.
The elaborate series of stilted houses, walkways and bridges have stood the test of time.
Kampong Ayer was once the beating heart of Brunei – the centre point for its trade, commerce and travel. Till date, it is home to thousands of buildings, including schools, mosques and police stations. Half of the country’s population lived on the water a century ago, but now, less than 3 percent of Bruneians call it home.
Still, Kampong Ayer is pivotal for Brunei’s identity. Its slow decline is perhaps a symptom of modern living. However, its golden days might be long past, but its potential to be a contemporary symbol of Brunei still waits to be explored.
With the global decline in oil prices, Brunei’s economy has suffered in recent times, but the government aims to rejuvenate the tourism sector which has good growth potential. The country is by far the least visited within the ASEAN region and the industry is in its formative years.
Embracing the global popularity of Airbnb, local Bruneian DK Kemariah Pg Hj Duraman has renovated her near century-old family home in Bakut Berumput, opening its doors to visitors from around the world.
