Brunei Ocean Exhibition (BEX) held at One City Shopping Centre on June 6, 2025. (Ocean Week Brunei)
On May 20, organisers of Ocean Week Brunei announced the opening of submissions for several initiatives aimed at promoting marine conservation and public engagement ahead of the annual event later this year. The programmes include the Brunei Ocean Arts – Photography Competition 2026, the Ocean Voices: Video Competition 2026, as well as nominations for the Ocean Hero Award 2026 and applications for the Ocean Youth Grant 2026.
The Ocean Week Brunei is a dynamic annual national movement and celebration dedicated to ocean conservation, sustainable livelihoods and building a blue economy in Brunei Darussalam. This year, launched in conjunction with World Ocean Day, the initiatives are part of preparation for Ocean Week Brunei 2026 and are guided by this year’s theme, “Ocean of Opportunities – Blue Economy for a Sustainable Future”. The theme highlights the growing emphasis on harnessing ocean resources responsibly while ensuring the long-term protection of marine ecosystems.
According to the organisers, the initiative is designed to create national platforms that encourage public participation, youth engagement and recognition for individuals working to protect the marine environment. Across the competitions, grants and awards, more than 5,000 Brunei dollar (3.700 US dollar) worth of prizes, sponsorships and other forms of recognition will be offered.
Ocean Week Brunei 2026 is set to be officially launched on June 2 at the Pro Chancellor Arts Centre. A series of activities will be held throughout the week to raise awareness of ocean conservation and sustainable marine practices. Planned events include the launch of a mangrove restoration initiative, public talk shows, an ocean-themed exhibition and beach cleanup activities aimed at mobilising community participation.
The upcoming programme builds on conservation efforts carried out in recent years under the Ocean Week initiative. Over the past two years, it was reported that 302 reef balls have been deployed in Brunei’s waters to create artificial reef habitats for marine life. In addition, 1,621 corals have been planted to support the recovery of reef ecosystems.
During the same period, approximately 3,970 people have taken part in various ocean-related activities, reflecting growing public awareness and community involvement in safeguarding Brunei’s marine environment and supporting a more sustainable ocean future.
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