Why does this small islet loom so large in Brunei’s history? You are now standing in front of Pulau Chermin. This island played a pivotal role in Brunei’s defense and internal conflicts.
Pulau Chermin is strategically positioned at the mouth of the Brunei River. Its location made it a crucial defensive point. The island spans 5 hectares. It rises to 110 feet. Pulau Chermin was once a fortified bastion guarding the passage to the river.
Let’s journey back to the late 16th century. Following devastating raids during the Castilian War, Brunei recognized the need for robust defenses. Pulau Chermin was fortified to protect the capital from further invasions. Its strategic location near the narrow channel upstream from the former capital made it ideal.
Ong Sum Ping recognized Pulau Chermin’s defensive potential. He built a stone barrier here. Sultan Muhammad Hasan further fortified Pulau Chermin. He even constructed a bridge connecting his palace to the fort. Cannons created during his and Sultan Shah Brunei’s rule bolstered these defenses. Pengiran Kesuma Negara Pengiran Hashim said that 40 boats loaded with stones were sunk. This was to begin building the stone fort between Chermin Island and Keingaran Island.
During the Brunei civil war from 1661 to 1673, Pulau Chermin became the administrative seat. Sultan Abdul Hakkul Mubin temporarily occupied it as his palace. This followed the assassination of Sultan Muhammad Ali. Pengiran Bendahara proposed a palace and houses on the island. Mubin relocated the capital to Pulau Chermin under the guidance of Pengiran Bongsu. Muhyiddin then declared himself the 14th Sultan of Brunei. This sparked the civil war.
Mubin fought the war from Pulau Chermin. He had fortified it for protection. After breaking a treaty, Mubin returned to Pulau Chermin. Forces from Muhyiddin landed on the island. This was aided by troops from the Sultan of Sulu. The island’s fort was taken. Mubin was put to death. It is claimed that he was buried on Pulau Chermin. Mubin had sent most of the regalia into the Brunei Bay with cannons.
Even after the civil war, Pulau Chermin remained significant. Sultan Muhammad Alam’s death in 1828 is linked to Pulau Chermin. He was allegedly assassinated here. However, there is no proof he was buried on Chermin Island.
The mouth of the Brunei River between Pulau Chermin and Muara was thoroughly surveyed in 1926. In 1958, the SS Juno struck the turning light beacon off Chermin Island.
In 1992, the UBD Biology Department studied the island. They recommended its preservation. As of 2000, Pulau Chermin has been gazetted under the Antiquities and Treasure Trove Act.
Though currently abandoned, Pulau Chermin’s legacy endures. It stands as a silent witness to Brunei’s tumultuous past. Its dense forests conceal the echoes of sultans and civil wars. Pulau Chermin remains a vital part of Brunei’s heritage.