Thursday, November 28, 2013

Outward Bound Brunei Darussalam (OBBD)






Outward Bound Brunei Darussalam is situated in the virgin tropical rain-forest on the banks of the Temburong River. A joint venture of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport with Brunei Shell Petroleum, OBBD has a logistic centre close to Batang Duri and an operations centre further upstream, in the heart of the forest. It aims to give groups of people a carefully designed and activity-based jungle experience, which fosters confidence, practical problem-solving, team-work, determination and a sense of adventure.

OBBD tailor their courses according to the nature, age and requirements of the client group, and the amount of time The facility is not just for schools and youth groups; it can also offer activities as part of an organisation's management development programme or for people who simply want a challenge. OBBD is unique among Outward bound - being the only one situated in dense primary rainforest.

Sungai Liang Forest Recreational Park






Sungai Liang is about 70 km from Bandar Seri Begawan, and the drive takes about an hour along the coastal highway. The park is 450 metres from the main Sungai Liang junction along the road to Labi.

This is one of several parks which have been developed and maintained for public recreation. The park is one of very few lowland forest areas in Southeast Asia and has facilities for general recreational activities, such as picnicking, jogging and hiking. It also caters for natural history devotees, with self-guided or organised group tours of the forest. The main pond, with its shelter platforms and open areas in the central complex, should satisfy visitors looking simply for fresh air and beautiful outdoor surroundings.



The more energetic may care to explore the network of well-marked nature trails that wind their way around the park, including a high-level canopy walkway in the tree-tops. This wonderful facility will give you a totally different perspective on the rainforest.

Labi Longhouses


Labi Longhouses


Further down the Labi Road, past Kampong Labi itself, there are several examples of a form of dwelling unique to Borneo - the longhouse. A village under one roof, longhouses consist of a row of family houses - r doors - with a communal area running the length of the building. This is the social centre of the village. 

Rampayoh longhouse has 16 doors and is the nearest to Labi. Othersinclude Mendaram Besar, Mendaram Kecil and, at the end of the road, Teraja. They are populated by Iban folk - once feared as headhunters but now more given to pastoral activities. Visitors are always warmly welcomed. Etiquette requires that you take some small gifts, ask permission before entering and remove footwear before doing so. 

Several trails head off into the jungle along this stretch of the road. They are clearly sign posted and marked, and lead the walker to scenic waterfalls and hills in virgin primary forest. They are relatively undemanding and guides are not necessary, but for your own safety you are advised to seek local advice before settin
g off.