

224
Borneo Bulletin Yearbook 2019
FORESTS AND NATURE RESERVE PARKS
BRUNEI-MUARA
Bukit Shahbandar Recreational Park
Well-known for its rolling terrain of various
trails with different levels of difficulty across
11 different hills, it’s easy to see why this park
is popular among both experienced and casual
hikers alike. Spread over 70 hectares of land in
addition to its accessible location, the park is
especially popular during early mornings and late
afternoons; the coolest times of the day. The park
also features an observation tower at the highest
point of the hills. Those that reach the top are
treated with a wonderful 360-degree aerial view
of the forest park.
Tasek Lama Recreational Park
One of the oldest recreational parks in the
country, this popular park offers a lot. From
challenging hiking trails, a playground, an
outdoor gym and a Japanese garden, this multi-
faceted park attracts adventurous hikers as well
as leisure guests. Nestled within the compound
is a picturesque waterfall. Park goers can also
delight in the diverse flora and fauna the park
plays resident to, including its cheeky full time
resident, the macaques. Situated two kilometres
away from the capital, it is perfect for those
looking for a quick nature escape.
Berakas Forest Reserve
Recreational Park
Spread over 348 hectares of land, this park
features camping grounds, barbecue and picnic
areas that can accommodate social gatherings
and other events. The park is also especially
known for its diverse range of trees; while
dominated by Kerangas trees, multiple forest
fires have led to the park hosting a unique
and interesting range of species, such as the
Ru Runang (Casuarina sp.), Sindok-sindok
(Endospermum spp.), and Selunsor (Tristania sp.).
Stands of trees such as Acacia mangium, Jagus,
Klinkii Pine and Kapur bukit (Dryobalanops sp.)
can also be found.
The Wasai Kendal
Located in Mukim Kilanas, roughly 1.5 kilometres
off Jalan Tutong, the Wasai Kendal is best
known for its charming waterfall, wide trails,
picturesque pools and beautiful blooms. The
waterfall attracts nature photographers eager to
capture its impressive scenes, but it is also the
perfect respite for those looking to spend time
away from the city.
TUTONG
Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park
Home to Brunei’s largest black water lake, this
7,800-hectare site was declared the 11
th
ASEAN
Heritage Park on November 29, 1984. Encompassing
a peat swamp forest, freshwater lake and grass
marsh habitat, the park is home to a vast diversity
of flora and fauna. The park is located roughly 27
kilometres away from Tutong Town.
With a total land area of 220 hectares, the lake
sustains a large range of marine life, including 50
species of freshwater fish, while its surroundings
accommodate over 200 bird species and 83
types of mammals. Examples include the red
leaf monkey and gibbon, white-collared fruit bat
and clouded leopard. Its diverse flora includes
the rare tiger orchid and carnivorous Nepenthes
Bukit Shahbandar Recreational Park
Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park