What Is the Traditional Costume of Brunei?

The traditional costume of Brunei includes the baju kurung (a long tunic over a long skirt) for women and the baju cara melayu (a tunic and long pants) for men. The baju cara melayu is traditionally worn with a plaid or floral-patterned sarong called a sinjang, which extends from the waist to the knees. Although the design of such garments once denoted social status, contemporary Bruneians tend to be less aware of these signifiers.

Women wear the baju kurung both at work and at formal occasions. Influenced by Islamic codes of dress, the costume will typically be accompanied by a headscarf.

A man will traditionally wear a simple black hat called a songkok with the ceremonial outfit, particularly for religious occasions and prayer.