Originally known as the Royal Customs and Excise Wharf, it has a rich history as both a port and an entry point for passengers and imported goods arriving by sea.

[10] Brunei's short, straightforward coastline enhances safety and limits unauthorised crossings,[10] while traditional penambang (water taxi) serve as a primary means of transport, linking coastal settlements along the river.

[12] Based on Francisco de Sande's notes from the Spanish naval commander's voyage during the Castilian War in 1578, there is a record of this strategic port serving as a trade hub for the centre of the archipelago.

Major shipping companies, such as Harrisons & Crosfield and Brunei Lighterage Limited, managed vessels like the Perak, Lipis, Rajah Brooke, and MV Maimunah.

Until January 1997,[6] passengers from Labuan and Lawas underwent immigration checks at a checkpoint located at the right corner of the pier,[c] prior to the opening of the Marine Department's Serasa Ferry Terminal in Muara.

The Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Department then took control of the Royal Customs and Excise Wharf property, converting it into a public parking lot.

[7] In 1998, Bandar Seri Begawan underwent significant redevelopment, transforming its historic waterfront by adding a large shopping centre and an underground car park, reflecting the country's efforts to balance modernisation with the preservation of its cultural, religious, and environmental heritage.

The final phase, with $1.1 million allocated for amenities like benches, kiosks, and waste management systems, was dedicated to enhancing public infrastructure for the comfort and safety of visitors.

[26] In March 2017, the Bandar Seri Begawan Master Plan was presented to the 13th Legislative Council, highlighting the revitalisation of the waterfront along the Brunei River as part of broader national infrastructure initiatives, despite fiscal challenges in the 2017–2018 budget.

[27] The Brunei Energy Hub, formerly the Royal Customs and Excise Building, is a museum and art gallery, inaugurated by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah on 23 October 2022.

Along with local art exhibits, visitors may discover Brunei's oil and gas history, present, and future through interactive displays and augmented reality experiences.

Located where the Immigration Post Control once stood, Cendera Kenangan Kekal offers a commanding view of Kampong Ayer, Brunei's historic water hamlet.

[30] The monument features a distinctive design with a tall bent column that forms the Jawi numeral 60 when illuminated at night, creating a notable landmark along the capital's shoreline.