Brunei Handicrafts
Brunei has a unique fusion of Islamic and Asian culture which appears in its traditional arts and crafts. The country has dozens of handicraft shops which offer a comprehensive selection of the many items produced in the country. Textiles are one of the most impressive crafts made here. The exquisite gold and silver-threaded textiles known as jong sarat, and collectable antique textiles called kain tenunan are popular purchases.
In addition to the wonderful traditional clothes and weavings is a wide range of items made from silver and brass. Traditional daggers called kris are very popular souvenirs, as are the gongs and basketry made by hand from pandan leaves. The shopping centers in Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait and Seria offer the best selection of handicrafts. The capital’s Tamu night market is another great place to find everything from fruits and spices to antiques and cloth. These traditional outdoor market’s small stalls offer some local color to go with your shopping.
There are also plenty of modern shops such as those located in the nation’s largest shopping mall on jalan McArthur in the capital. Malls like this are full of large department stores, as well as specialty shops catering to visitors. Souvenirs and handicrafts can also be bought here, but the experience and price of the outdoor markets is always more interesting.
Best Buys
Among the wide selection of Brunei handicrafts traditional daggers known as kris are very popular, while those interested in textiles will want to opt for the beautiful gold and silver-threaded textiles called jong sarat. Traditional handcrafted items include unique baskets and gongs made from pandan leaves.
Best Places to Buy
There are a number of large shopping centers in the main cities of Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait and Seria. These are the best places to purchase handicrafts, while the night market at Tamu sells perhaps the best selection of goods in the country, from fresh fruit to antiques and clothes.
