BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The grounds of Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (BKISHHB) turned into a lively campsite on Friday (Nov 7) as camping enthusiasts joined the public to witness the rare Saturn disappearance phenomenon, combining stargazing with outdoor leisure.
Among the participants were Mohd Akmal and his spouse, who decided to participate in the event despite receiving a last-minute invitation and the absence of their usual camping companions.
“Initially, we thought of giving it a pass, but when we learned about the Saturn disappearance phenomenon activity at BKISHHB, we felt it would be interesting to camp and join the public in witnessing this rare occurrence,” said Mohd Akmal.
The couple made minimal preparations, relying on their ready-to-go camping gear. They opted not to bring food, knowing that food trucks were available to cater to visitors.
“We’re among the new wave of camping enthusiasts who picked up the activity after the Covid-19 pandemic. For the past two years, we’ve been actively camping with family and friends,” they shared.
Also joining the event were Nor Mohd Alfie @ Rahmat bin Ahmad and Nurul Amal Hazirah binti Ahad, who learned about the activity organised in conjunction with the astronomical sighting.
“This is our first time camping on the grounds of BKISHHB, and we were surprised by the encouraging turnout. Although it’s not on a large scale, the crowd seemed enthusiastic and genuinely enjoyed themselves,” said Nor Mohd Alfie. For the couple, camping is more than just a hobby – it’s a way to strengthen bonds and reconnect with people.
“I even reunited with a primary school friend during this activity. We hadn’t met in years, so it was really exciting to cross paths again,” he added.
They also expressed hope that camping sites across Brunei could be upgraded to attract more local and international campers, which could help boost the country’s tourism sector.
“Perhaps sites could be made more organised and comfortable, with better safety and hygiene – especially in public restrooms. It would be great for foreign campers to be impressed with the facilities available here,” said Nor Mohd Alfie.
Meanwhile, Tiapsah Inchi, another participant, shared that the Brunei Campers group often go camping or glamping together. Their participation that night was also through an invitation shared within the group.
“Camping near where phenomenal activities take place is interesting. We get to enjoy camping and also join the public in witnessing something rare like the Saturn disappearance phenomenon.”
However, Tiapsah noted that turnout was slightly lower compared to previous events as the activity was held on the eve of a working and school day. Tiapsah also highlighted the growing popularity of camping since the lifting of pandemic restrictions.
“It’s heartening to see more people taking up camping. It’s a great way to strengthen family bonds,” she said.
“Most of us rely on government-run camping sites, which are free. Perhaps private operators could also step in to develop camping facilities and make Brunei a top camping destination,” she added.
The public observation of rare Saturn’s rings disappearance phenomenon on Friday at BKISHHB was part of the ongoing Astronomy Exhibition: Methods of Determining the Beginning of the Hijri Month launched on November 1, 2025.
The Saturn’s rings disappearance is a rare astronomical event occurring once every 15 years, when Saturn reaches a position known as the equinox – a point where the planet’s iconic rings appear faint or even invisible from Earth.
Scientists believe that Saturn’s rings are slowly vanishing due to gravitational forces and a process known as “ring rain”, in which particles of ice fall into the planet’s atmosphere.
In addition to the main observation activity, visitors also participated in activities such as camping (glamping), Kahoot quiz sessions, picture-matching games, colouring activities, Islamic mathematics puzzles, crossword games and a mini sales fair.
Throughout November 2025, several other activities will continue to take place as part of the Astronomy Exhibition: Methods of Determining the Beginning of the Hijri Month. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
