Brunei's Agricultural Abundance: Exploring Local Crop Varieties

Brunei has a diverse range of crops grown across its fertile land, including rice, fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. The country's tropical climate and fertile land make it ideal for growing a variety of produce, with agriculture contributing to 5% of the country's GDP. While Brunei's agriculture sector primarily focuses on meeting domestic demand, some crops are also exported. Rice is the staple food and the most cultivated crop in the country, with the government promoting the production of high-quality rice to increase self-sufficiency. In addition to rice, Brunei produces a variety of fruits, such as bananas, mangoes, papayas, durians, rambutans, and pineapples, with most of these fruits being grown by small-scale farmers. The country also produces a range of vegetables, herbs, and spices, ensuring a diverse and flavourful cuisine.

Rice

The Bruneian government has recognised the need to reduce the country's dependence on imported rice and has set targets to increase self-sufficiency. In 2019, the target was set at 22% self-sufficiency by 2020, which was then reduced to 11%. To achieve this, the government has invested in new technology, irrigation systems, and farming programmes, allocating $45 million for these initiatives. Additionally, the government has been promoting the production of high-quality rice varieties and providing subsidies for seeds, equipment, fertilisers, and pesticides.

One key initiative to boost rice production is the development of new, high-yielding strains of paddy. For example, the strain "Sembada (188)", jointly developed by Brunei's Department of Agriculture and Agrifood (DAA) and Indonesia's Biogene Plantation, can yield up to six metric tonnes per hectare, almost twice that of current local varieties. Another hybrid, "Titih", a collaboration with a Myanmar firm, is expected to produce eight metric tonnes per hectare. This is significantly higher than the yield of the local "Laila" strain, which produces three tonnes per hectare.

The government's efforts to increase land area for rice cultivation, improve irrigation and drainage systems, and maximise land utilisation through partnerships and technological advancements, are all part of the strategy to enhance rice production in Brunei and reduce reliance on imports.

Fruits (e.g. bananas, pineapples, mangoes)

Brunei's tropical climate makes it ideal for cultivating a wide variety of fruits. The country produces several tropical fruits, including bananas, pineapples, and mangoes, as well as other fruits such as:

Bananas

Bananas are a common crop in Brunei, often grown for home consumption. They are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and fibre. They are also a popular ingredient in desserts and can be used to make banana chips.

Pineapples

Pineapple is a popular fruit in Brunei, grown mainly in the rural areas. Both sweet and sour varieties are available, and they are used for human consumption, as an ingredient in various dishes, and for making juice and jam.

Mangoes

Mangoes are another fruit that thrives in Brunei's climate. They are similar to the bambangan, a fruit endemic to Borneo. Mangoes are used in various dishes, such as rice and chutneys, and can also be pickled.

In addition to these, other fruits grown in Brunei include generic fruits such as watermelon, papaya, and mangosteen. The country also produces a range of unique, endemic fruits, such as durian, tarap, rambutan, kembayau, langsat, and kundong.

The government has been encouraging the cultivation of fruits to meet domestic demand and reduce dependence on imports. Most fruits are grown by small-scale farmers, who sell their produce in local markets. There are also some large-scale fruit plantations that export to neighbouring countries.

Vegetables (e.g. spinach, watercress)

Brunei's national dish, ambuyat, is often served with pakis or biring (vegetables). However, there is a lack of information on the specific types of vegetables grown in Brunei.

Spinach

No information found on spinach grown in Brunei.

Watercress

Watercress is a species of aquatic flowering plant in the cabbage family, Brassicaceae, and is native to Europe and Asia. It is one of the oldest known leaf vegetables consumed by humans and is known for its piquant flavour. Watercress is a rapidly growing perennial plant that can be cultivated on a large or small scale. It thrives in water that is slightly alkaline and is often produced near the headwaters of chalk streams. Watercress can be eaten raw or cooked, and it is a good source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, vitamin B6, calcium, and manganese.

In some regions, watercress is considered a weed, while in others, it is valued as a vegetable or herb. Watercress was introduced to China via Hong Kong and Macao in the 1800s and its cultivation spread to highland areas in the tropical regions of Asia.

Other Vegetables Grown in Brunei

Some other vegetables that are easy to grow in Brunei include lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, radishes, green beans, and zucchini. These vegetables are suitable for newbie gardeners and can thrive in various conditions, such as containers, hanging baskets, or garden beds.

Herbs and spices (e.g. lemongrass, ginger)

Herbs and spices are an integral part of Bruneian cuisine, adding flavour and aroma to various dishes. The country produces a range of aromatic plants, including lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, and pandan leaves. These herbs and spices are used to enhance the taste and fragrance of local dishes, and some even have medicinal properties.

Lemongrass, for instance, is a fragrant herb with a subtle citrus flavour and a hint of ginger. It is commonly used in soups, curries, and teas, as well as in traditional medicine. Ginger, on the other hand, is a versatile spice with a warm, pungent flavour. It is used in both sweet and savoury dishes, adding a spicy kick to meals and drinks. Ginger is also known for its medicinal properties, often used to soothe an upset stomach or to add a kick to a cold remedy.

Turmeric is another important spice in Brunei, known for its vibrant yellow-orange colour and earthy, slightly bitter taste. It is commonly used in curries and rice dishes, and it is also prized for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Pandan leaves have a unique aroma, reminiscent of vanilla and almonds, and are used to flavour desserts, drinks, and savoury dishes. The leaves are also used to wrap and flavour sticky rice dishes.

The cultivation of these herbs and spices is encouraged by the government, which aims to meet domestic demand and reduce imports. This focus on local production ensures a steady supply of fresh, aromatic ingredients for Bruneian cuisine, contributing to the country's rich and diverse food culture.

Peanuts

Peanut cultivation has a long history, dating back thousands of years. They are native to South America, particularly the regions east of the Andes, including Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Brazil. Over time, peanut cultivation spread worldwide, and it is now a common crop in tropical and subtropical regions.

In Brunei, peanuts are grown by small-scale farmers, who sell their produce in local markets. Peanut farming in the country is focused on meeting domestic demand, and peanuts are a popular snack and ingredient in Bruneian cuisine. The country also exports some of its peanut production to neighbouring countries.

The government of Brunei has been promoting the cultivation of high-quality crops, including peanuts, to increase self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imports. With their high protein content, peanuts can play an important role in addressing malnutrition and improving food security in the country.

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