[3][4][2] The Brunei royalty played a pivotal role in the migration from Kampong Ayer to the mainland, recognising the opportunities presented by British Resident McArthur's focus on establishing an administrative capital on land.

In 1909, when McArthur introduced a residential scheme along Sungai Tekuyung, Sumbiling, and Kampong Sultan Lama, the royal family seized the opportunity to acquire land with permanent title deeds.

By the 1920s, the movement extended beyond the town centre to areas such as Tungkadeh and Kumbang Pasang, highlighting the growing interest among Kampong Ayer inhabitants in participating in this transformative scheme.

However, following Brunei's independence in 1984, the expansion of the public sector reshaped employment patterns and brought increased attention to the deteriorating living conditions in Kampong Ayer, which included overcrowding, poor sanitation, pollution, and frequent fire hazards.

[a] Efforts were made to preserve the memory of Kampong Sultan Lama, such as renaming streets after the original villages, ensuring that future generations would remain connected to their heritage.

[12] Lukan Uking presided over the formal opening of Kampong Sultan Lama Malay School on Friday morning, 9 September 1966.

The school, which is next to the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, was built by Kampong Sultan Lama locals with assistance from the Department of Education in a number of ways.

A colorful and unforgettable celebration for the community was created by the event's many activities, which included fashion competitions, costume contests, a drama called Menyahut Panggilan Ibu Pertiwi, singing, dancing, and comedy performances.