The Universiti Brunei Darussalam Botanical Research Centre (UBD BRC) embodies the university’s commitment to not only promoting Brunei’s remarkable natural heritage, but also share the wonders of the country’s nature to everyone.
Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER) Director Dr Hussein bin Haji Taha highlighted this during the launching ceremony of the Educational Tourist Packages at the UBD BRC yesterday.
He further added, “Recognising the need to broaden our outreach and adapt our offerings to better serve and engage a wider audience, we collaborated closely with the Tourism Development Department at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.”
“With valuable feedback from the Tourism Development Department and local travel agencies, our team developed new, immersive educational tourist packages that aim to provide an enhanced visitor experience going beyond the traditional guided tour.”
“These activities are designed to provide visitors hands-on experiences that focus on plant diversity, sustainable gardening practices, and showcase the vital research and conservation efforts being conducted here in UBD BRC.”
He said that the launch symbolises their dedication to position UBD Botanical Research Centre as an exciting destination for both local and international visitors.
The collaboration with the Tourism Development Department and local travel agencies is hoped to enhance Brunei’s appeal as a destination not only known for its cultural heritage but also for its bountiful natural treasures and its commitment to biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
Celebrating its sixth anniversary this year, UBD BRC is now extending its reach to all visitors through the UBD BRC Educational Tourist Packages, offering a unique educational experience that showcases the rich biodiversity of Brunei’s flora and the rare Kerangas forest.
It will also immersive educational tours and activities, highlighting UBD BRC’s living plant and stingless bee collections, and the centre’s flagship conservation and research projects.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Hajah Tutiaty Haji Abdul Wahab as the guest-of-honour officiated the launch.
Visitors to the UBD BRC can opt for the Basic Package, which includes “Journey Through Nature: UBD Botanical Garden Tour”, an immersive guided tour led by local botanists and UBD graduates who are experts in Brunei’s native flora.
The Full Package includes the guided tour and offers an enhanced educational experience, featuring hands-on activities which include “Green Thumb Experience- Repotting and Transplanting Plants”, Grow Your Own – The Magic of Plant Propagation”, “Biodiversity Treasure Hunt”, and “Nature’s Art – Leaf Stamping”.
Nature enthusiasts will not only be treated to the green wonders in the UBD Botanical Research Centre but can also learn more about sustainable gardening and contribute to the Centre’s conservation efforts. – Fadhil Yunus