BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE Museum Department is planning to convert the former residence of the Belait District Officer into a museum to attract more tourists to the district.

“The museum in Belait will feature the district’s historical artefacts and cultures,” Acting Director of Museums Department Pg Dr Karim Pg Hj Osman told The Brunei Times.

The project is a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA). It is pending approval from MoHA to finalise the process.

“Our part is ready. We have sent the letter to the ministry,” Pg Dr Karim said.

The museum will have space for exhibitions to promote the artwork of local and foreign artists.

“We aim to attract more locals to appreciate the various artistic heritage of Brunei Darussalam. Now, the government is planning to ‘go out’ to other districts other than in Brunei-Muara,” he said.

“This is to educate members of the public that Brunei is full of history,” he added.

The department has been active in spreading awareness on the importance of Brunei’s history.

According to the Public Relation Officer from the Museums Department, there are eight museums and galleries under the department – Brunei Museum, Malay Technology Museum, Royal Regalia Building, Art Gallery, Bubungan Duabelas, Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park, Maritime Museum in Kota Batu, and sports gallery at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

On a separate issue, Pg Dr Karim explained that The Brunei Museum located at Kota Batu is currently closed due to safety reasons, Pg Dr Karim said.

“It was officially opened in 1972. The infrastructures inside the building are old and damaged. Last year, heavy rainfall caused landslides near the building. Therefore, to prevent casualties, the museum was closed as was acknowledged by the Public Works Department. It is still being repaired,” he said.

The Brunei Times