Lance ThooWe here at Neue are always on the lookout for “hidden gems” here in Brunei.
This week, we’ll be taking a closer look at Tutong, which is located between Belait District and Brunei-Muara District. The next time anyone tells you there’s NOTHING to do in Tutong, be sure to prove them wrong with this list. Happy exploring!
#1. Mercu Tanda Kenangan (The Keris Monument)
Kickstart your Tutong outing right here at Mercu Tanda Kenangan otherwise known as “The Keris Monument”.
Located close to the Tutong Municipal Department, this picturesque monument was officiated as the Tutong District’s tribute to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 58th birthday in 2004.
The monument stands tall with an arch and surrounded by 8 sheathed keris, a local double-edged dagger historically used in combat by male civilians and members of the royal family and as a symbol of power and ethnic pride of the Malay community in the country.
And while you’re here, do check out the 1K1P Gallery at Tutong District Office where you will be able to see a myriad of village products under the “One Village, One Product” (1K1P) Initiative.
#2. Sungai Tutong Signage / Bahtera River Cruise
No visit to Tutong is complete without snapping a photo here with your buddies by the jetty where you can get a fantastic view of the Sungai Tutong signage.
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Oh! And while you’re here, why not enjoy a scenic boat ride? Imagine how cool it would be when you host your next gathering on a privately-chartered Pontoon boat! One such operator that offers this service is Bahtera River Cruise (@bahterarivercruise). Early bookings are highly recommended to avoid any disappointment.
According to Bahtera River Cruise, pontoon boats are very stable due to the two aluminium pontoons situated under the deck. There is ample space for you to move around without fear of rocking the boat!
#3. KK Koya Restaurant
Whether it’s roti kosong or rojak, KK Koya is the one place to be if you’re looking for authentic Indian-Muslim food.
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Located just across the road facing the jetty, this “original” KK Koya branch is a must-visit whenever you’re in Tutong. Be sure to pair your makan with a refreshing cup of Teh Tarik!
Ask any Bruneian and they’ll say the same thing: “No road trip down is complete without a stopover at KK Koya.”
#4. I Luv Cafe Bistro
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Located at Unit No 1, Ground Floor, Simpang 45, Lot 3496 in Kampong Petani, this is one of the trendiest places in Tutong where you can hang out with your closest (gossip) buddies. A fancy place to enjoy Western cuisine!
#5. Kompleks Pasarneka & Tamu (Tutong Thursday Market)
Kompleks Pasarneka & Tamu has a wide variety of vendors selling local produce, snacks and even traditional handicrafts. It’s open every Thursday from early morning to midday but some vendors may have sold out well before the closing hour so it is best to come at the earliest hours.
#6. Hook.ed Seafood Culinary Store
This is without a doubt a hidden gem in Tutong! Hands down! The Hook.ed Seafood Culinary Store is located at the Golden Corporation office in Tutong. But do keep in mind that they do serve lunch, high tea and fine-dinning by appointment only.
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“People would drive all the way down to Belait District just to check out the Naafi grocery store that’s located in between Tuker Lines and the Garrison swimming pool. But here in Tutong, we have the Hook.ed Seafood Culinary Store,” an avid Neue reader from Tutong said. “The seafood here is surprisingly affordable!”
#7. Pantai Seri Kenangan
Pantai Seri Kenangan is the number one spot in Brunei to enjoy a sunset. This was what a resident of Tutong District proclaimed as he instructed me to drive to the tip of Kuala Tutong past the Old Ferry Jetty.
Fun fact: Did you know that “Pantai Seri Kenangan” means “Unforgettable Beach” in English? It sits beside a long spit of land just 5 minutes away from Tutong Town, with the Tutong River on one side, and the South China Sea on the other.
Get in touch with us
What other places would you like to see added to our Neue Routes series? Did you miss anything in Tutong? We’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment below.
Be sure to check out our past Neue Routes articles – “A Day Trip Through Seria Oil Town”, “A Foodie’s KB Tour” and “A Walk Through Historical Bandar Brunei”.
GIVEAWAY ALERT!
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