Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum

This exhibition provides insights into the lives, culture, and technology of past societies through the artifacts that have been uncovered.

It showcases the evolution of shipbuilding technology, key artifacts related to traditional seafaring, and the country's significant role in maritime trade.

The gallery celebrates Brunei's achievements during its golden age of maritime power, reflecting its strategic position in both regional and global trade networks.

On May 24, 1997, Brunei Darussalam made history with the discovery of a shipwreck off its coast, believed to date back to the Ming dynasty (1368–1644).

The shipwreck is thought to have been carrying a variety of goods such as ceramics, beads, and other artifacts intended for trade.

The Brunei Shipwreck was discovered accidentally by Elf Petroleum Asia (Total Fina) during geophysical survey work.

The discovered artifacts included ceramics, beads, glass, bracelets, iron, grinding stones, gongs, and elephant tusks.

[5] Furthermore, ceramics from Vietnam were discovered in the wreckage, which dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries and includes white and blue-and-putch style pottery as well as stoneware bowls, urns, and flower vases.

The finding of historical artefacts from this shipwreck undoubtedly supports the claims made by several Chinese and Western sources on Brunei's position as the principal commerce hub in northwest Borneo, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries.