Published on June 28, 2023

The newly launched Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja stands as a significant tribute to the country’s history and serves as an interactive educational centre for the public to learn about the importance of the energy industry to the local economy as well as everyday lives.

Launched on Sunday, October 23, 2022 by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Hub is a significant collective initiative from founding partners Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd (Brunei LNG), Brunei Shell Marketing Company Sdn Bhd (BSM) and Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC), in close collaboration with the Government of His Majesty.

The Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja is “a gift to the nation” that enables visitors to explore what life in Brunei was like before the discovery of oil in 1929, learn about the industry today and the strategies that are in place for a greener future with affordable and sustainable energy.

   

The Hub is located in the historic landmark of the Royal Customs and Excise heritage building at the heart of the capital. Touching on the decision to convert this building to an interactive oil and gas museum, the statement notes that it is closest to Ayer Berkunchi, one of the earliest exploration sites for oil and gas in Brunei Darussalam, and is in line with the government’s aspirations to repurpose old buildings.

“Since 2019, BSP, Brunei LNG, BSM and BGC have been working closely with the Government of His Majesty, which includes relevant parties from the Ministry of Finance and Economy, Ministry of Development and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports to successfully bring into life the vision of making Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja a reality,” shared Hajah Zainab M.A. Omar, BSP Human Resources Director and the Business Opportunity Manager who led the project on behalf of the four companies.

“Alhamdulillah, the Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja is now set to be a key hub for the public and tourists alike to learn more about the rich history and contributions of the oil and gas industry in Brunei,” Hajah Zainab continued.

Meanwhile, BSP Managing Director and Shell Country Chair Brunei Darussalam Agnete Johnsgaard-Lewis hopes that the Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja will inspire the next generation.  “Energy is such an important part of Brunei’s past but also the future. I hope that as the public brings their family for a visit, they will get inspired by the rich history of the oil and gas industry in Brunei and how it has contributed immensely to the country. I also hope that everyone will learn and understand better about what we do and what the future energy can look like – especially for the next generation so that they too can contribute further to Brunei and make history,” shared Agnete.

   

 

Sharing her hopes for a more sustainable future, Agnete added, “As we move forward, we want to inspire the next generation. We need energy, the world needs energy, and there’s an opportunity here for our local youth and adults to come explore, experiment and learn about renewable energy  and what that could mean for Brunei in the future.”

Brunei Darussalam has been blessed with a prosperous oil and gas industry since the first drop of commercial oil which was discovered in 1929 in Seria. Today, over 90 years later, oil and gas continue as a backbone of Brunei Darussalam’s economy. The Energy Sector including the oil and gas industry contributes to more than 50 per cent of our country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). 

“BSP, Brunei LNG, BSM and BGC have contributed to the country’s growth and economy over the past decades, and we intend to continue powering our nation’s future,” said Agnete Johnsgaard-Lewis, BSP Managing Director and Shell Country Chair Brunei Darussalam.