Approximate Border Location
Wait Times
Cars 10-45m; peaks 60-180m
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Operating Hours
06:00 AM-10:00 PM
Crossing Types
Ped,cars,buses; border controls
Border Type
Land crossing via road (Brunei–Malaysia)
Peak Times
07:00-09:00 AM; 04:00-07:00 PM
Daily Crossings
4,000-18,000/day
Currency Exchange
BND/MYR; MYR; ATMs in Miri/Limbang
Safety Information
Traffic queues; routine document checks
Languages Spoken
Malay, English
Accessibility Features
Paved lanes; step-free varies
About Kuala Lurah & Tedungan
The Kuala Lurah-Tedungan border crossing (also known as Kuala Lurah in Brunei Darussalam and Tedungan in Malaysia’s Limbang division, Sarawak) connects the western edge of Brunei to the Limbang district of Sarawak across a short stretch of open land. You cross here when traveling between Brunei and northern Sarawak, often as part of routes from Bandar Seri Begawan toward Limbang town, Lawas, or Miri. The crossing serves as Brunei’s primary land link with Malaysia’s Sarawak, handling passenger vehicles, motorcycles, buses, and local trade in a region where Brunei is almost entirely surrounded by Sarawak except for its northern coast.
Location and Connections
Kuala Lurah lies in the Brunei-Muara district, about 15 kilometers south of Bandar Seri Begawan, accessible via the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Highway. Tedungan sits directly opposite in Limbang division, Sarawak, with onward roads to Limbang town (around 25 kilometers) and farther to Lawas or Miri. The crossing features modern immigration and customs buildings on both sides, with a short neutral zone and a paved road bridge over a small stream. The surrounding area includes flat, low-lying plains, oil palm plantations, and scattered villages typical of Borneo’s coastal lowlands. No major river or mountain barrier dominates; the border here follows a straight surveyed line through rural terrain. No rail or air links serve directly; the route relies on road transport amid agricultural and forested countryside.
Historical and Geopolitical Background
The Brunei-Malaysia border is complex, with Brunei divided into two parts by Limbang district of Sarawak, a legacy of 19th-century colonial divisions. The Kuala Lurah-Tedungan crossing formalized in the late 20th century after Brunei regained full independence in 1984 and relations with Malaysia stabilized. It became Brunei’s main land exit point, supporting trade in consumer goods, food, and construction materials, as Brunei relies heavily on imports from Sarawak. The open-border ethos allows citizens of both countries to cross for short distances, though formal checkpoints enforce customs and security. The crossing has remained stable despite occasional diplomatic sensitivities over Limbang’s status, with no major incidents affecting operations. Fun fact: Limbang’s separation of Brunei into two parts dates to 1890 when the British Brooke family of Sarawak annexed the area, a historical quirk that makes Kuala Lurah the primary land gateway for Bruneians heading to Sarawak’s northern districts.
Current Status and Operating Hours
As of early 2026, Kuala Lurah-Tedungan operates as a fully functional international crossing for pedestrians, motorcycles, cars, and light trucks. It opens daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Brunei time; Malaysia is the same time zone), with some flexibility for locals outside peak hours. The crossing sees moderate to high traffic, particularly on weekends when Bruneians shop in Limbang or Sarawak residents visit Brunei. Dry season (March to October) offers reliable access; rainy season (November to February) brings occasional flooding or muddy roads, though major disruptions remain rare due to paved surfaces. Security involves Brunei’s Immigration Department and Royal Brunei Police alongside Malaysia’s Immigration and Customs, conducting standard checks. No significant closures reported recently, but verify through Brunei’s Immigration Department, Malaysian Immigration Department, or traveler forums, as weather or minor bilateral issues can affect smaller posts.
Crossing Procedures Step by Step
You process exit and entry on both sides. From Brunei to Malaysia: at the Kuala Lurah Brunei post, present your passport or Brunei ID card (for citizens) for exit stamp or registration, then clear customs if carrying goods. Walk or drive the short distance to Tedungan Malaysia immigration for entry stamp (Malaysian citizens cross freely; foreigners use visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival depending on nationality). The reverse from Malaysia follows the same sequence: Malaysia exit stamp followed by Brunei entry (customs check for restricted items like alcohol or pork). Procedures include manual document verification, occasional bag or vehicle scans, and questions on purpose. Wait times typically range from 15 minutes to an hour, longer during weekends or holiday periods. Foreigners report straightforward processing, though expect additional scrutiny for goods or longer stays.
Visa Requirements for Foreign Visitors
Bruneian and Malaysian citizens cross without visas under bilateral arrangements, using ID cards or passports. Foreigners entering Malaysia from Brunei receive visa-free entry for most nationalities (typically 90 days for many Western passports; confirm eligibility). Brunei grants visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for many nationalities (30 days for most; no fee for short stays). Bring passport copies and photos if required. Passports need at least six months validity. Rules remain stable, but confirm via embassies or official portals, as enforcement can vary at smaller crossings.
Transportation Options and Road Details
From Bandar Seri Begawan, buses, shared taxis, or private cars reach Kuala Lurah (30-45 minutes on paved highways). From Tedungan, buses or shared taxis head to Limbang or Lawas. Private cars cross freely for citizens; foreigners may need vehicle permits or temporary import forms. Roads from Bandar stay paved and good; Malaysian side includes highways with occasional rough patches. Rainy season mud or flooding can delay travel. Full Bandar Seri Begawan-Limbang trip takes 1-2 hours with border time. Daylight travel recommended for safety and visibility.
Scams and Safety Warnings
Minor issues include inflated transport fares near Kuala Lurah or poor exchange rates (use banks or official changers). Touts may offer “fast” services. The area remains generally safe for transit, but petty theft occurs in crowds. Monitor news for local flooding or unrest in border regions. Avoid unofficial paths. Register with embassies if staying longer in Malaysia or Brunei.
Nearby Attractions and Practical Tips
Kuala Lurah offers quiet rural views and proximity to Brunei’s Jerudong Park. Tedungan leads to Limbang’s markets, colonial history, and nearby Mulu National Park access. Carry BND/MYR cash, water, snacks, sunscreen, and passport copies. Start early; consider Sungai Tujuh or Tedungan as backups if needed. Translation apps aid local interactions.
Final Notes for Planning
Kuala Lurah-Tedungan provides a convenient, low-hassle crossing between Brunei and Sarawak, benefiting from open-border ease for citizens and simple procedures for foreigners. Confirm status, prepare passports, and time travel for daylight. With basic preparation, it offers reliable passage across this Borneo frontier. Safe travels.
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