Peramu is more than just a village in Bandar Seri Begawan, it’s a little piece of Brunei’s past floating on the Brunei River. Imagine a place where families have lived on the water for centuries, a place that was once a bustling port, a place that still holds onto traditions while embracing modernity. This is Peramu, a neighborhood in Kampong Ayer, the iconic water village.
Peramu is located in the very heart of Kampong Ayer, a collection of stilt settlements on the Brunei River, surrounded by other villages each with its own history and character. This particular neighborhood gets its name from Kampong Peramu, which means “water village,” and is one of the many villages that make up Peramu. But Peramu has a distinct charm and stories of its own.
Here in Peramu, you can still see glimpses of life as it once was. The houses are built on sturdy wooden stilts, rising above the water, some two stories high. Many are privately owned, each boasting unique style, reflecting the personalities of the families that call them home. While some houses, built under government programs, have a more uniform style, ensuring comfortable and safe living. The streets are built on stilts, not of concrete but of wood and metal, forming a unique, intricate network of bridges that connect this community. You can wander through the heart of Peramu on foot, marveling at the unique, water-based architecture that has served this community for generations. But Peramu is not just a place of the past. It is also a place of modern life. The villagers have access to all modern amenities, electricity, pipe water and internet and television services, just like any other community in Brunei. In fact, Peramu is a prime example of how a traditional way of life can seamlessly coexist with modern conveniences. The village is also a place of pride for its identity and heritage, with residents committed to preserving the unique traditions of their ancestors and their way of life.