Brunei's May Public Holidays: What's Happening This Year?

Brunei, a Muslim-majority country, follows the Islamic calendar, so many of its holidays are based on lunar phases and vary from year to year. In May, the country celebrates Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day, honouring the establishment and achievements of the armed forces since 1961. The holiday usually falls on May 31, but it is observed on the following day if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday.

Royal Brunei Armed Forces Day

The Royal Brunei Armed Forces consist of three primary military branches: the Royal Brunei Land Force, the Royal Brunei Navy, and the Royal Brunei Air Force. Together, these branches work cohesively to ensure the defence and security of Brunei. The Armed Forces Day serves as an opportunity to honour the men and women who selflessly serve in these branches, putting their lives on the line to safeguard the country.

The history of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces dates back to when Brunei was a British protectorate from 1888 until its independence in 1984. During the protectorate period, Brunei relied on the British armed forces for protection. However, in preparation for independence, recruits from Brunei began their military training on May 31, 1961, marking the formation of the country's first military force, known as the Brunei Malay Regiment.

The Brunei Malay Regiment faced an early challenge due to the Brunei revolt in December 1962, which highlighted the need for stronger national security. Despite this setback, the regiment continued its training and, on May 31, 1965, was honoured with the royal title by the Sultan, becoming the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment. This evolution continued, and on January 1, 1984, coinciding with Brunei's independence, the regiment was officially renamed the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

National Day

Although the Proclamation of Independence was made on the 1st of January 1984, Britain's rule over Brunei ended on the 23rd of February, making it the official date of the country's independence. On the eve of independence, mass gatherings were held in various mosques across the country, and as the clock struck midnight, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah read the proclamation declaring Brunei's independence.

The largest events are centred in Bandar Seri Begawan, with smaller gatherings taking place in other areas across the nation. The day is marked by colourful crowd formations, athletic and cultural performances, and military marches. Government offices and businesses are usually closed for the holiday.

Islamic New Year

The Islamic New Year in Brunei is a time for reflection and spiritual observance. Many people in the country will fast and pray throughout the month of Muharram, with a particular focus on the first 10 days. These days hold significant meaning for Muslims, especially Shia Muslims, who mourn the death of Husayn Ibn Ali al-Hussein, the Prophet Muhammad's grandson, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.

The date of Islamic New Year differs from the Gregorian calendar, falling on different dates each year. In 2024, it was observed in Brunei on July 7 and 8, and in 2025, it is expected to be celebrated on June 27. The variation in dates is due to the Islamic calendar being based on the revolutions of the moon, resulting in a shorter year of 354 days compared to the Gregorian calendar.

The customs and traditions of Islamic New Year vary across different countries and between Shia and Sunni Muslims. Generally, the day is marked by religious activities, spiritual singing, and gatherings in public halls and mosques. It is a more subdued celebration compared to New Year's festivities associated with other calendars, reflecting the Islamic New Year's focus on introspection and remembrance.

In Brunei, both the Western New Year on January 1 and the Islamic New Year on 1 Muharram are recognised as public holidays, reflecting the country's predominantly Muslim population while also acknowledging its interconnection with the rest of the world.

The Sultan's Birthday

On the day of the Sultan's Birthday, there is a military parade at the avenue grounds and Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien. There are also further parades for two full weeks after the Sultan's birthday, along with frequent fireworks displays. The main ceremony includes a speech given by the sultan, the awarding of medals of honour to armed forces members, and the inspection of the Guard of Honour. There is also a 21-gun salute, typically carried out by small cannons, and helicopters and military planes flying overhead.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

Mawlid, Maulidur Rasul, or Milad un Nabi, is a public holiday in Brunei that commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. Sunni Muslims observe this day on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi' al-awwal, while Shi'a Muslims mark it on the 17th. Muhammad is believed to be the last prophet, and his birthday is celebrated with prayer, procession, and religious rites. The day begins with scripture readings from the Koran and sermons on Islamic tradition and values. Decorations adorn many homes and mosques, and the mosques receive food donations for the destitute. The royal family leads a procession through the streets.

Families devote the entire day to commemorating Muhammad's birth, with children reciting prayers and poems that narrate the prophet's life and work. Many Muslims opt for a strict and spartan approach to the sacred day, favouring prayer, scripture reading, and fasting as a means to honour the prophet.

The date of Mawlid in the Gregorian calendar varies each year, as the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles. The Islamic calendar is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, meaning that in some years, this holiday will occur twice.

In 2024, Prophet Muhammad's birthday will be observed in Brunei on Monday, 16 September, with tentative dates of Friday, 5 September, and Saturday, 6 September, in 2025.

Frequently asked questions