Moving to Brunei? Here's the real talk – straight from other teens who’ve been through it.
🏠 Military Life & Moving
- Life here moves fast – most families are posted for just 2-3 years. That means lots of hellos... and goodbyes.
- Friendships can feel a bit temporary. But you’ll also meet people from all over the world.
- Missing home is normal – the snacks, the weather, your mates. But it does get easier.
- Stay open to new people – you’re not the only one figuring it out.
- School Year 7 & 8 starting in September 2025 at Panaga School or ISB which means no more week boarding and that is new for us!
- School Year 9-13 weekday boarding at JIS or ISB; both have great facilities.
- Takes a bit to get used to being away from home in the week.
- The house masters/mistresses are there to help and support.
- It can be fun, making friends; but you do have to share a room!
- Brunei = hot, humid, and wildly rainy. Like, rainforest rainy.
- One minute it's sunny, the next you're in a downpour. Always have an umbrella or cap handy.
- Roads and gardens flood easily – flip-flops won’t save you. Get used to soggy socks!
- The heat is no joke. You’ll sweat. A lot. But trust us – you’ll adjust and still need those hoody's for indoors when aircon is too high!
- Monkeys roam free – in trees, on rooftops, and even at your pool.
- Tip: Don’t smile at them (they see it as aggression). Don’t touch, feed, or film up close – especially the babies.
- Rubbish = monkey magnet. Always secure the bins!
- Expect geckos and lizards inside the house. They’re harmless but leave tiny turds.
- Stray dogs and cats = cute but not safe to pet.
- Bugs bite. Hard. Bring repellent and wear long sleeves if you're out at dusk.
- Look out for epic birds – Hornbills and Kingfishers are like something out of a nature documentary.
- No Saturday jobs or work experience options here.
- Places to chill: Jerudong Park, Temburong rainforest, Gadong Mall, KB Sentral – not loads, but worth exploring.
- Youth events do happen... but info can be hard to find. Ask around or follow local community pages.
- Adventures? Absolutely yes. Think jungle hikes, bat caves in Mulu, boat trips through mangroves, and stargazing like nowhere else.
- BSB (Yayasan Mall) and outside – evening activities and food court.
- Empire – great pool, chill out space and water sport activities.
- Brunei is a Muslim country, so:
- During Ramadan, don’t eat or drink in public during the day.
- Dress modestly in public (especially shoulders/knees).
- Things like gender identity, public affection, and clothing choices can be viewed differently here. Be aware, stay respectful, and talk to someone if you need support.
- It’s great to share food with your Muslim friends but check its halal first. If food is labelled ‘haram’ they can’t eat it.
- No H&M, No JD Sports – sorry. But KL and Vietnam markets are full of “fake but looks real” gear.
- Supasave is your go-to for Western stuff – just don’t expect Tesco prices.
- Some snacks won’t have proper labels – check first, especially if you’ve got allergies.
- Try the local food! Roti canai, nasi lemak, bubble tea... you might find new favourites.
- Miri, Malaysia – 45 mins drive, no VISA for UK passports – lots to do!
- Jolly Bee / McDonalds / KFC / Coffee Bean
- Don’t stress too much – you’ll settle in quicker than you think.
- That grass? Super itchy. Don’t lie on it.
- For jungle trips: wear long sleeves, water shoes, and mosquito spray. Trust us.
- It’s totally okay to feel weird at first. But there are other teens here feeling the same way.
