Located on the northern coast of the island of Borneo, Brunei Darussalam is a small equatorial country bordered almost entirely by Malaysia. The Malaysian state of Sarawak with the South China Sea claims its northern border and divides the country into two pieces. The Islamic sultanate is home to a variety of cultures that have grown and changed with the many shifts in its controlling powers from British royalty to the current Sultan. Brunei’s lengthy history with royal influence has made polo a popular sport in the country for decades.
Bandar Seri Begawan
Located along an inlet of the South China Sea and the main road to Seria and Kuala Belait, Brunei’s capital city was formerly an important river port and trade center. Today, the city still maintains a port near the Muara River, and is largely dedicated to the financial and administrative needs of the country. Despite the city’s more managerial facets, it also offers a wide variety of historic and cultural sites including the grand mosques, the largest water settlement in Southeast Asia, and the Royal Brunei Polo Club.
The Royal Brunei Polo Club, the oldest polo association in Brunei, is located just off the shore of the picturesque Tarindak Beach. The polo oasis has a full size field, luxury clubhouse, and many other amenities to offer its many guests and members who enjoy the national and international tournaments held at the grounds.
The club was established by the Sultan of Brunei and the Royal Family in 1966. It is the oldest polo association in Brunei and has been a major contributor to the development of the sport in the region. Members of the Royal Family of Brunei, such as Princess Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah and her husband and Royal Family Member Pengiran Muda Bahar have represented Brunei in international polo competitions. Princess Azemah was one of two women who competed in the 2017 Southeast Asian Games winning Bronze in 2017 and 2019. Penigran Mida Bahar was the Brunei team Captain for 2017 and 2019 as well and was named MVP in the 2017 SEA Games.
The club prioritizes spreading awareness about the sport and developing its popularity by welcoming the public for events and showcases, while maintaining an heir of privacy and seclusion with its waterfront views. Whether visiting to participate in matches or to enjoy the sights, the Royal Brunei Polo Club should be a priority on any Brunei travel itinerary.
Written in collaboration with Lily Brennan