Perhaps, you’ve heard the locals call it Sungai Kebun. This bridge over the Garden River isn’t just a way to get from one place to another. It’s a landmark. It represents Brunei’s progress and connection to its rich traditions.
Sungai Kebun is officially named Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge. It’s quite a mouthful. The bridge is named after Queen Saleha.
This cable-stayed bridge links Pusat Bandar and Mukim Lumapas. Sungai Kebun is more than just concrete and steel. It is a symbol of Brunei’s vision. It represents a blend of modernity and cultural identity.
Opened in October 2017, Sungai Kebun quickly became a source of national pride. It was Brunei’s first cable-stayed bridge. Its towering structure redefined the city skyline.
The bridge stretches 622 meters. Its main span reaches 300 meters. The single pier soars to 157 meters.
Look up at the Islamic dome atop the tower. It weighs 9.5 tonnes and has a diameter of 8.7 meters. The dome reflects Brunei’s strong Muslim identity. The tower was designed to resemble a mosque dome. There were even plans for a prayer area on the first level.
Sungai Kebun isn’t only for cars. Pedestrians can stroll along the sidewalks enjoying the view.
The construction of Sungai Kebun began in 2014. It was part of the 10th National Development Plan. Daelim Industrial and Swee. worked together on this project. It cost 139 million Brunei dollars.
Before Sungai Kebun existed, connecting these areas was more difficult. The bridge improved traffic flow and boosted local commerce.
Kampong Ayer is a traditional stilt settlement on the Brunei River. Sungai Kebun serves the land portion of Kampong Ayer village.
Sungai Kebun also considers the environment. The design has a positive impact on the surrounding area. The bridge complements Bandar Seri Begawan’s landscape.
Did you know that Sungai Kebun has an interesting origin story? The mukim, or subdistrict, may be named after Kampong Sungai Kebun. Ayer Berkunci is near Kampong Sungai Kebun. Ayer Berkunci means locked water. It was the only place with piped water in the late 18th or early 19th century. A tiny coal mine once existed there. The water was controlled by a valve.
Consider Kampong Ujong Kelinik. It was once called Kampong Antarabangsa or International Village. A fire in 2002 almost wiped it out. The village was a donation of land from Kampong Sungai Siamas.
Also the tomb of Makam Raja Tua is situated on a hill in one of the local cemeteries.
Sungai Kebun stands as a testament to Brunei’s ambition. It is a bridge to the future. It connects communities and celebrates Brunei’s heritage. As the sun sets, the bridge illuminates. It reflects in the water. It’s a sight that embodies the spirit of Bandar Seri Begawan. It’s a reminder of Brunei’s journey forward.