Initially known as the Kiarong mosque, the grand architectural masterpiece was later bestowed with the official name Jame ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque in honor of His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. The construction of this majestic mosque employed the finest materials sourced from around the globe, including Philippine hardwood, Italian marble, Persian carpets, and genuine gold accents. Completed in 1994, the Jame ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque stands as Brunei’s largest mosque, a testament to the nation’s commitment to architectural excellence and spiritual devotion.

Brunei’s first and oldest national mosque, the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, bears the name of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the nation’s 28th ruler. Positioned within a man-made lagoon, this architectural gem graces the historic grounds of the 1,000-year-old Kampung Ayer settlement, nestled along the Brunei River.

Kampong Ayer, a remarkable water village, is nestled on the banks of the Brunei River. Dubbed the “Venice of Brunei,” this expansive water settlement boasts a history that spans over a thousand years, making it one of the largest of its kind globally.

Kota Batu is situated on the outskirts of Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. In historical terms, Kota Batu held considerable significance as Borneo island’s primary town before the emergence of Kampong Ayer, the largest water village globally. Known as “Kota Batu,” meaning “Stone Fort” in Malay, this area once served as the esteemed Bruneian Empire’s capital. It encompassed an ancient palace, administrative center, and mosques, tracing its origins to Brunei’s third sultan, Sharif Ali.

Brunei, having gained independence from British rule in 1984, has since embraced the national ethos of the Malay Islamic Monarchy. Bruneians take pride in their nation’s distinction as home to the world’s oldest continuous monarchy and the sole surviving Malay Islamic Monarchy.