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Borneo Bulletin Yearbook 2020
Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali
Saifuddien (Taman SOAS)
Situated in the capital, Taman SOAS is better
known as the venue for state occasions such as His
Majesty’s birthday and the nation’s National Day
celebrations, usually the only occasions the park
is open to the public. However, with the launch of
‘Bandarku Ceria’ in October 2016, Taman SOAS has
since opened its doors to the public every Sunday.
The weekly event, initiated by several government
bodies and spearheaded by the Municipal
Department, aims to promote a healthier lifestyle
for residents, with cycling and aerobics some
of the activities being held each week. Several
roads in the capital, including Jalan Omar ‘Ali
Saifuddien, Jalan Stoney, Jalan Masjid Omar ‘Ali
Saifuddien, and Jalan McArthur are closed for four
hours from 6am to 10am, turning the area into a
designated car-free zone. These car-free zones
also house stalls selling food, beverages, souvenirs
and handicrafts. Apart from promoting health,
government bodies hope to encourage residents to
walk or opt for public transport as a stepping stone
to reduce Brunei’s carbon footprint. The community
event saw a lot of success, garnering not just local
but also foreign visitors, as well as inspiring other
ASEAN ministries to emulate the event by hosting
an ASEAN-wide car-free day in the future.
Jerudong Park Playground
Featuring all kinds of rides for all ages, Jerudong
Park Playground opened in 1994 as the country’s
largest outdoor family entertainment and
amusement park. The park relaunched in 2014 after
a major renovation.
In the first phase of its relaunch in 2014, the park
operates a number of rides and attractions such as
the Ye Old Mine Cart Family Junior Coaster, Jumper,
Ferris Wheel, Mini-Golf Course, Lazer Maze, Double
Decker Carousel, Bumper Cars, Pedal Boats, Kids
Playground, the international F1 and F2 Supakarts
and the Musical Water Fountain at the Jerudong
Park Garden. The park also launched Water Park, a
favourite among children and the perfect escape for
those seeking refuge from Brunei’s heat.
Jerudong Park unveiled the second phase of its
relaunch in 2017, breathing new life into Brunei’s
premier tourist destination with new rides and
attractions: Scary Drop, Telekombat, 4D Simulator,
The Plunge Lagoon, Ice World Arctic Rapids, Kids
Adventure Indoor Playground, The Pirate Ship and
Adventure Kingdom.
Jerudong Park Playground