Roads in areas like Kampong Kiulap and Gadong experienced less traffic since Friday, with many shops closed for Chinese New Year celebrations.
Parking, typically scarce in commercial areas, are now more available.
Eateries and workshops in Gadong, Kampong Menglait and Batu Satu along Jalan Tutong were also closed, with some planning to reopen more than a week later.
A popular chicken rice restaurant in Batu Satu announced it will resume operations on February 19, according to a memo posted on its premises.
Regular commuter Muqri who works in Kiulap said it normally takes more than 45 minutes to get out of Kampong Kiulap area but last Friday, it was smooth sailing.
“Normally, I leave office after 7pm when the traffic subsides,” he said.
Tony who has been visiting his Chinese friends’ house since yesterday noticed fewer people visiting this year compared to previous years. “I guess most people spent their holidays outside Brunei while thousands of Bruneians crossed the border to the neighbouring cities of Miri and Kota Kinabalu during the long weekend, which coincided with Israk Mikraj and the Chinese New Year celebration.”
Meanwhile, Rol’s family of three endured a 14-hour journey to Kota Kinabalu, vowing not to repeat it due to long queues at the Labu Control Post in Temburong District. – Azlan Othman
