Dreaming of a quick international getaway? If you’re in Miri, Sarawak, you’re sitting at the gateway to one of the world’s most unique sultanates. Driving from Miri to Brunei is a classic Bornean road trip that takes you from the bustling oil town of Sarawak into the serene, gold-domed landscapes of Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB).

While the distance is short, crossing an international border involves a few digital hurdles. Here is your updated 2026 guide to making the journey seamless, safe, and stress-free.

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Trip Overview: Fast Facts

• Distance: Approximately 158 km (Miri city center to BSB).

• Driving Time: 2 to 3 hours (highly dependent on border queues).

• Border Crossing: Sungai Tujoh (Miri side) / Kuala Belait (Brunei side).

• Border Hours: Usually 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM (check for extended hours during festive seasons like Hari Raya or Lunar New Year).

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Step 1: Digital Prep (Do This Before You Leave!)

Gone are the days of just handing over a passport and cash. In 2026, the border is almost entirely digital. To avoid being turned around, complete these three things:

1. VES (Vehicle Entry System) Permit: If you are driving a Malaysian-registered car, you must apply for a VES Pass online via the Brunei Royal Customs and Excise Department portal. You will receive a QR code—save it on your phone or print it.

2. EES (Exit and Entry System) / CaP: Brunei requires all travelers (except pedestrians) to pay a service charge called Caj Perkhidmatan (CaP). It currently costs BND 3.00 per person for a one-way trip. This must be paid online via the EES Portal before you arrive.

3. MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card): For non-Malaysian citizens returning to Miri later, ensure your MDAC is filled out within 3 days of your return entry into Malaysia.

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Step 2: The Border Crossing Process

The Sungai Tujoh Checkpoint is just 30 minutes from Miri. The process follows a "Drive-Through" format:

• Malaysian Side: Stop at the booth, hand over passports for stamping, and you're officially "out" of Malaysia.

• No Man’s Land: You’ll drive a short stretch across the bridge.

• Brunei Immigration: Hand over your passports.

• Brunei Customs: This is where you scan your VES QR code and your EES (CaP) payment receipt.

Pro Tip: Avoid crossing on Friday mornings (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM) as everything in Brunei closes for Friday prayers, and border traffic can spike as people head out for the weekend.

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Step 3: Driving in Brunei

Once you've cleared the border, the road to the capital is well-paved and scenic. However, Bruneian traffic laws are strictly enforced:

• Speed Limits: Usually 100 km/h on highways. Speed cameras are common.

• Fuel Rules: If you are driving a Malaysian car, you cannot buy subsidized fuel (the cheap yellow-labeled petrol). Look for the designated pumps for foreigners, which are priced at commercial rates (still reasonable, but higher than local rates).

• No Smoking/Alcohol: Brunei has very strict laws regarding the importation of tobacco and alcohol. Always declare these if you have them, though it is simpler to avoid bringing them altogether.

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Must-Visit Stops on the Way to BSB

Don't just rush to the city! There are gems along the Belait highway:

• The Billionth Barrel Monument (Seria): A tribute to Brunei’s oil wealth, located right by the sea.

• The Empire Brunei: Even if you aren't staying there, stop by this 7-star hotel for a coffee. The architecture is breathtaking.

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Essential Checklist for 2026