Have you ever walked through a village that was almost completely wiped out by a fire? You’re standing right in front of Ujong Kelinik, a village in Bandar Seri Begawan that was once home to over 500 people. Now, only three houses and a place of worship remain. The story of Ujong Kelinik tells of a community that faced hardship, but also of resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.
Ujong Kelinik used to be a bustling place, especially for rice farmers. It was a waiting place for supplies, a place where merchants from Lawas, Sundar, and Tarusan brought their goods. Farmers would visit Ujong Kelinik to get their essentials, making this village a central point for trade and community. Although the village was originally called Kampong Antarabangsa, its name changed to the less upscale Ujong Kelinik.
In the 1950s, the government built a medical clinic in the village, named after Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien. This act of generosity was intended to improve healthcare for the village. This was the beginning of Ujong Kelinik becoming a place of community, but the village was struck by a terrible fire in 2002. The fire destroyed almost everything in the village, leaving just three houses standing. It was a catastrophe the people of Ujong Kelinik were forced to overcome.
Many residents were temporarily relocated to government flats at Old Berakas Airport. The villagers, once a tight-knit community, had to adapt to a new life. Despite the devastation, the people of Ujong Kelinik persevered. They rebuilt their lives, adapting to the changes and moving to new areas. Those who stayed are a testament to the spirit of Ujong Kelinik. While the village might not be as thriving as it once was, its history remains a poignant reminder of the spirit of community, the enduring power of resilience, and the constant struggle for survival in the face of adversity.