Factors Causing Physical Changes of the Water Village (Kampong Ayer) in Brunei Darussalam

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine factors causing physical changes to Kampong Ayer (meaning “Water village”) in Banda Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam. Data were collected from documents, observations, and in-depth interviews with 36 key informants recruited through purposive sampling. The data were then analyzed for rich descriptive findings.

The study found that the factors causing changes were as follows. The first factor had to do with its geographical surroundings. That is, it is located near the sea with strong winds that can spread a fire rapidly when it breaks out; and as a result, the number of houses has reduced as some families moved out while others built new styles of houses. The second factor was politics and dominance.  Centralization with the sultan as the supreme executive authority allowed state projects to develop areas around the mosque and old palaces for which houses had to be demolished. However, obstacles were limited because of trust in the leader and appropriate compensation; house owners who initially opposed the project eventually agreed to it. The third factor was technology. It caused changes in building materials, house structures, and styles that solve fire-related and public utility problems. The fourth factor was the economy. The country’s high income has resulted in mega projects. The state began to build a suspension bridge to connect roads. Houses were also demolished to expand the town and stimulate tourism. The fifth factor was socio-cultural in nature. Modern city life promoted the consumption of material culture. Residents favored modern-day convenience although they still maintained their Malay Muslim identity.