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Borneo Bulletin Yearbook 2023
Brunei Darussalam’s customs and
traditions are shaped by a unique
syncretism of Islamic faith and its Malay
identity. While Islam has significant
influences on Brunei’s culture, the
country’s customs and traditions,
traditional ethnic cultures and values
are equally as influential. Together, the
traditional ethnic cultures and values
make up the Bruneian hospitality. The
two components are emphasised in
the country’s national philosophy of
Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB).
Bruneian Malay customs, values and
tradition come to life incorporated
with modern elements in Malay
weddings. The bride and groom
often don outfits incorporating the
traditional and vibrant
‘kain tenunan’
and exchange gifts presented on
silver or bronze trays called
‘gangsa.’
A traditional wedding consists of
several rituals including
akad nikah
which is the solemnisation ceremony
and
bersanding
which is considered
the highlight of the wedding. Guests
typically wear traditional attire known
as
baju cara melayu
for men and
baju
kurung
for women.
Baju cara melayu
and
baju kurung
are
also worn during special occasions
such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri following a
month of fasting during Ramadhan.
Hari Raya is considered an opportunity
for family and friends to reconnect
and forgive each other. Family
Customs and Traditions
members traditionally engage in a
salam
(handshake) in accordance to
the Malay culture to ask for forgiveness.
The salam is usually initiated by the
younger of the two by bending down
until their forehead comes in contact
with the other person’s hand as a sign of
respect. Alternatively, the younger may
bend down and kiss the elderly’s hand.
Bruneiancustoms arealso incorporated
into the daily lives of its people through
everyday etiquette, one of which is to
bend slightly when walking past an
elderly person to show respect. It is
tradition for Bruneians to eat with their
hands, particularly with the right as the
left hand is considered unhygienic.
Pointing at objects with the index finger
is also considered impolite, especially
when pointing at people. It is common
practice for Bruneians to point with
their thumb, while the four fingers are
folded in a way that resembles a fist.
Shaking hands is common practice
but only between those of the same
gender, given that it is not customary
for Muslims of different genders to
have physical contact. Public displays
of affection are recommended to be
kept at minimum, and Bruneians also
tend to dress modestly.
All in all, Bruneians are a tightly knit
conservative community with strong
family values, known to be warm and
friendly towards visitors from all walks
of life.