Culture of Brunei

Traditional Costume
For women is the baju kurung (a long tunic over a long skirt), which is
typically accompanied by a headscarf. Women wear the baju kurung both at work
and at formal occasions.
While for men is the baju cara melayu (a tunic and long pants), traditionally
worn with a plaid or floral-patterned sarong called a sinjang, which extends from
the waist to the knees. A man will traditionally wear a simple black hat called a
songkok.

Arts
Boat making, silverwork, and kris making (making of the Malays' unique
and ancient weapon).

Customs
Primarily influenced by Islam.
The family is the focal point of the social structure. The Bruneian family is
the extended family and includes aunts, uncles, and cousins as well as close
friends. Members of the extended family are expected to remain loyal to each
other and the family. As a result of this Brunei is a hierarchical culture. Age and
position are revered.
According to the firm belief in modesty, Malay women should not expose
any part of their bodies except the face and hands.
Another interesting social custom is that eating and drinking while walking
are considered impolite and are behaviors that should be avoided, except at
picnic or fairs.
When shaking hands with somebody of the opposite sex, the man should
wait for the woman to offer her hand as it is not customary for men and women to
touch. Additionally, touching anybody on the head is considered rude.
Both pork and alcohol are forbidden to Muslims by the laws of Islam. Any
meat consumed by Muslims must be Halal.
When passing in front of people, especially the elderly and those senior in
rank, it is courteous and respectful to bend (as if one is bowing) with one arm
straight downwards along the side of the body while walking across.

Traditional game
Kikik or kite flying has for centuries been a popular traditional game, both
with adults and children.
Man has always had a great fascination for flying so much so that many
stories have been told through the ages about his futile attempts to imitate the
natural ability of birds to soar or cruise in the air. In his failure he resorted to the
next best thing – inventing something that flew or he could send airborne. This
was probably what led him to make the kite more than two thousand years ago.

Literature
The Language and Literature Bureau promotes the development of
literature and folklore and publishes textbooks in Malay and English for use in
primary and secondary schools.
 One of the most important literary works is Sya’ir Awang Simawn, an epic
poem. This poem tells the history of the Sultanate through the adventures of the
hero Simawn. Children also have an appreciation for literature and are
particularly familiar with the sajak style of poetry. The sajak was first used to
teach children about history and civil studies. It is read in regular prose form but
may be accompanied by hand movements as well.