GRADUATE SCHOOL

BRUNEI DERUSSALAM

2020-2021 – Second Semester

EDUC 311 – Comparative Education

Prepared by:
Jewel Mae R. Lagat
MAEd – Educ. Mgt.

Prepared for:
Milagros B. Cortez
Professor

May, 2021
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Brunei, also known as Brunei Derussalam, a country with a

colorful exhibition of fascinating customs and
rich nature, with a contemplative respect for
religion as well as reverence for its ancient
sovereignty. It is an independent Islamic
sultanate on the northern coast of the island
of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is bounded to
the north by the West Philippine Sea and on all other sides by
the East Malaysian state of Sarawak, which also divides the
state into two disconnected segments of unequal size.

BRIEF HISTORY
According to early history, Brunei was discovered by a
group of fourteen brothers travelling in search of a new place
to live, which would be the beginnings of today’s Brunei.
When a group of brothers went on a journey for a new place
to call home, they came across an area at the Brunei River and
settled there because of the flanking hills, the water supply
and the generous supply of fish, close to the country’s present
capital. One of them was Awang Alak Betatar, who became the
first Sultan of Brunei and took on the name Sultan Muhammad Shah
when he embraced Islam.

NATIONAL SYMBOLS
1. National Flag
The color yellow is the
color of royalty and
symbolizes the Sultanate. The
white and black bands denote
the two chief ministers of
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Brunei, who advise the Sultan and serve as regents when he

is unable to rule. The National Crest in red is
superimposed at the center of the flag. Embodied in the
crest in yellow Arabic script is the national motto that
can be translated: “Always Render Service with God’s
Guidance”.

2. National Coat of Arms

It is designed by the 3rd Sultan of
Brunei – Sharif Ali was officially
adopted in 1940. It includes five main
components: The swallowtail flag and the
parasol or the ceremonial umbrella
represent the sultanate’s monarchy; the
wings of four feathers symbolizing justice, tranquillity,
prosperity, and peace. On the sides, the two upraised hands
signify the government's pledge to preserve and promote the
welfare of the citizens and to protect the people. The
crescent moon denotes Islam – Brunei’s state religion.
Brunei’s national motto: "Always render service with God's
guidance" appears in yellow Arabic script on the crescent
and on a ribbon (scroll) below the crescent, the country’s
name: Brunei Darussalam (“Brunei, the Abode of Peace”) is
inscribed in yellow Arabic script.

3. National Anthem
"Allah Peliharakan Sultan" ("God Bless The Sultan") is
the national anthem of Brunei Darussalam. The music was
composed by Haji Awang Besar bin Sagap in 1947 and was
written by Pengiran Haji Mohamed Yusuf bin Pengiran Abdul
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Rahim. It was adopted as the national anthem of the British

protectorate of Brunei in 1951. The song was officially
adopted as the National Anthem of Brunei Darussalam upon
its independence from UK on Januray 1, 1984. Let’s listen
for a while to their national anthem.

FACTS ABOUT BRUNEI

1. Ambuyat
Brunei’s national dish was borne
out of a period of hard times.
‘Ambuyat’, which is made of sago from
the rumbia tree. It was a staple food
during World War II, when rice and meat
were too expensive.

2. Bah
If one Bruneian word could express a plethora of
emotions, it would be ‘Bah’. It can be used to say yes, as
a greeting, a way to express frustration or even
resignation – depending on the tone of one’s voice!
Generally in most cases the word ‘bah’ works both as
an expression or an emphasis towards a particular phrase or
a sentence that you’re trying to say.

3. Baru Nah
When Brunei was discovered by a group of brothers
looking for a new home, led by Pateh Berbai, he’d
exclaimed, “Baru nah!”, loosely translated to “Now we’ve
found it!”, which is the origin of the country’s name.
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According to local historiography, Brunei was founded

by Awang Alak Betatar, later known as Sultan Muhammad Shah,
when he moved from Garang in the Temburong district to the
Brunei River estuary. It was renamed Barunai in the 14th
century, possibly influenced by the Sankrit word “varun”
which means “Seafarers.” As for Darussalam, it is derived
from Arabic, meaning “abode of peace.”
‘Darussalam’ was added to the country’s name by the
third ruler, Sultan Sharif Ali, revered in history as the
first Sultan to build a mosque in the country and governing
according to Islamic principles. The term, which is Arabic
(and consequently, so was Sultan Sharif Ali!), means ‘Abode
of Peace’.

4. Brunei Darussalam is divided into four districts namely

Brunei/Muara, Tutong, Belait and Temburong.
Bandar Seri Begawan, affectionately referred to as
‘Bandar’ by the locals, is the capital city of the
Sultanate, and it hosts some of
Brunei-Muara District’s most prominent
tourist attractions! The city also
lies along the Brunei River and you
can spend an entire day walking around
and explore its charms and historical
marvels.

5. Languages
Bahasa Melayu, or Malay, is the official language of
Brunei. However, English is the language of business and is
widely spoken at all levels. Mandarin, Chinese dialects and
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native Borneo languages are also spoken by various segments

of the population.
Bruneians are predominantly Malay, though significant
Chinese, Indian and indigenous Bornean populations add to
the cultural makeup of Brunei.

6. National Day
Brunei celebrates National Day on 23rd of February, in
the very place that it declared independence: the Taman
Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, right in the heart of
the capital. It’s also one of the best times to visit
Brunei, as the city truly comes alive for the annual
National Day celebrations!

7. In 1929, oil was first discovered in Seria, in the Belait

District, and marked the start of the economy’s upward
trajectory for Brunei. Thanks to the oil and gas industry,
the people have enjoyed significant benefits such as free
healthcare and an affordable housing system.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT

1. Jerudong Park
Go on a rollercoaster
ride with friends and enjoy
a picnic at the garden, or
get on a magical boat ride
and spend some time with a
special someone. Take a
whimsical stroll along the
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park's magnificent landscapes. And make sure to take a

picture at the Diamond Monument before you leave!

2. Joyful Garden
Built with love to
cultivate joy, Joyful
Garden is a tranquil
escape that is much
needed. The lush garden is
home to a plethora of
plants and decorated with
wooden swings, delightful gazebos and furniture pieces
inspired by the Chinese culture. This spot is perfect for
visitors who want to slow down and take some time to
unwind. Walk across small bridges and unwind as you listen
to the calming sounds of water streaming down from the hill
into the ponds.

3. Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Mosque

From its iconic
glistening golden dome and
towering marble walls to
the majestic and magical
lagoon housing the
historical Mahligai Barge,
its no wonder the Omar
'Ali Saifuddien Mosque is seen as one of the most
magnificent mosques in the Asia Pacific. Named after the
28th Sultan, who is known as The Architect of Modern
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Brunei, you’ll quickly be immersed in its glorious beauty

and wealth of history and culture.

4. The Royal Regalia Museum

The Royal Regalia
Museum is home to the
Sultanate's heirlooms and
regalia. From golden
chariots to olden-day
symbolic weapons and
shields, exhibits of His
Majesty's Silver and Golden Jubilee celebrations, and
ornate mementos from historic Brunei, this museum is
embellished with the beauty of Brunei's past.

5. Tasek Merimbun
Tasek Merimbun is the
largest natural lake all
of Brunei Darussalam, and
is designated as one of
ASEAN's Heritage Parks.
Due to the release of
tannin from falling
leaves, its waters glisten with a dark sheen. This,
alongside its diverse range of flora and fauna, make for an
exciting trip for adventurous wildlife enthusiasts.
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6. Billionth Barrel Monument

Built in 1991, the
Billionth Barrel Monument
resides along the beach in
Seria and is a symbol of
achievement in Brunei’s oil
production. Commemorating
the accomplishment in its
name, the iconic structure stands tall and proud for all to
see. This landmark is situated on the beach in Seria that
boasts of beautiful sunsets and glimpses of oil rigs in the
distant horizon. In 1991, that first oil field produced its
billionth barrel and a monument was built near the original
site to mark this achievement!

7. Belalong Canopy Walkway

The Belalong Canopy
Walkway is considered to
by many to be one of
Brunei's most majestic
locations. Walk across
five connected towers with
a canopy height of over 43
meters. From up here you can experience a bird’s eye view
of the pristine beauty of Brunei's rainforests, one of the
most diverse ecosystems in the world. It’s recommended you
begin your hike at dawn or dusk, so you can watch the
brilliant sun rise or set past the jungle horizon.
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EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
Primary Education
Formal schooling begins at the preschool level at the age
of five years. From the age of six years onwards, students
follow six years of primary education, after which they proceed
to secondary level. All students will have a common curriculum,
and at the end of Year 6, they will sit for the Primary School
Assessment (PSR).

Secondary Education
It is usually at the age 12-16 years old. At the secondary
level, students will be channelled into the 4- year programme or
the 5-year programme.
The lower secondary level covers two years of common
curriculum i.e. Year 7 and Year 8. At the end of Year 8,
students sit for the Student Progress Examination (SPE). Based
on Student Progress Assessment (SPA), students are channelled to
either General Secondary Education Programme or Applied
Secondary Education Programme.
a. General Secondary Education Programme - This programme is
meant for students who are more inclined towards academic
subjects.
b. Applied Secondary Education Programme - the students
concerned will take up technology and business-oriented
subject combinations that adopt a practical and hands-on
teaching and learning approach.

Post-Secondary Education
Upon completion of Year 10 (4-year programme) and Year 11
(5-year programme), students are able to choose different
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programmes and learning modes according to their abilities,

interests, inclinations and needs. At the same time, students
have to meet certain requirements outlined by the institutions
that offer such programmes and courses. This is usually taken
for 2 years. The various programmes offered at the Post-
Secondary Education are Nursing Education, Pre-University,
Specialised Education and Vocational and Technical Education.

Higher Education
There are only four universities in the country. The
duration of the courses range from 2 years for the diploma
programs to 4 years for the bachelor's programs. These
universities include
1. University Brunei Darussalam (UBD)
Established in 1985, UBD has expandedto include eight
academic faculties, nine researchinstitutes, and six
academic service centers (UNESCO 2015). The Discovery Year
programin UBD provides the opportunity for student’s
toengage in real-world learning experiences through
community-based or international engagements
2. University Teknologi Brunei (UTB)
It’s established by the MoE in 1986 to cater to study
options that are skills-based and industry-inclined. ITB in
its initial years of establishment offered courses such as
the higher national diploma. With the upgrading to
university status in 2008, UTB began offering programs such
as engineering, business, and ICT through its School of
Business and Finance, School of Information and
Communication Technology, School of Science and
Engineering, and School of Health Sciences. The practical
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industry-based programs enhance the value and marketability

of the qualifications awarded by UTB
3. Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA)
It specializes in Islamic-based programs such as
Islamic History and Civilization, Islamic Law and
Governance, Islamic Finance, and Arabic Language. The four
faculties and thre e-research centers in UNISSA offer
courses at all levels of study from Higher National Diploma
(HND) to postgraduate programs.
4. Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College (KUPU
SB)
It is supervised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs,
was formerly an Islamic Religious Teachers’ Training
College but upgraded to university college status in 2007.
It remains a center for the training of Islamic teaching
with study programs from diploma to post-graduate master’s
level. KUPUSB currently offers programs under its seven
faculties and three centers.
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Comparison of Philippines’ and Brunei’s Education

Philippines’ Educational System Brunei’s Educational System

Kindergarten – 5-6 years old Kindergarten – 5 years old

Primary
Education
(Grades 1-3) Elementary Primary Education
Intermediate Education (Year 1 – Year 6)
Education
(Grades 4-6)
4-year Program
or 5-year
Junior High School Secondary
Program
(Grades 7-10) Education
(Year 7-Year 10
or Year 11)
Senior High School Post Secondary School
(Grades 11-12) (2 years)
Bachelor (4 or Bachelor (4
more years) years)
Higher Masteral (1-2 Higher
Masteral
Education years) Education
Doctoral (3-7
Doctoral
years)
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K-12 CURRICULUM (Philippines) SPN21 CURRICULUM (Brunei)

K-12 curriculum shall be The SPN21 curriculum is

learner-centered, inclusive, designed to provide learners
developmentally relevant and with broad, balanced, relevant
appropriate. The curriculum and differentiated learning
shall use the spiral experiences and takes into
progression approach to ensure account each learner’s needs
mastery of knowledge and skills whilst making provision for
after each level. The goal of progression and continuity. It
the K-12 Curriculum is for all is intended to be more
learners to have access to responsive to changes in the
quality and relevant education. society and the economy, and
In effect, all learners have will lead learners towards
the opportunity to become well- lifelong learning. The SPN21
rounded, happy, and smart curriculum places learners at
individuals who are confident the heart of teaching and
to pursue their chosen paths. learning based on an
appreciation of their
individual needs.
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REFERENCES

About Brunei. (n.d.). Brunei Tourism.

https://www.bruneitourism.com/about-brunei/
Belait. (n.d.). Brunei Tourism.
https://www.bruneitourism.com/places-to-
go/districts/belait/
Brunei-Muara. (n.d.). Brunei Tourism.
https://www.bruneitourism.com/places-to-
go/districts/brunei-muara/
Temburong. (n.d.). Brunei Tourism.
https://www.bruneitourism.com/places-to-
go/districts/temburong/
Tutong. (n.d.). Brunei Tourism.
https://www.bruneitourism.com/places-to-
go/districts/tutong/
WorldAtlas. (2021, February 24). Flags, Symbols & Currency of
Brunei Darussalam. https://www.worldatlas.com/flags/brunei-
darussalam
https://www.moe.gov.bn/spn21dl/SPN21%20ENG%20(2013)%20COMPLETE.p
df