艾美艾尊

Wu Chun shows off his talent at playing the Chinese drum during the lion dance performance in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration at Fitness Zone in Kiulap. Picture: BT/Roz Alia ZinRoz Alia


BRUNEI is gaining attention as a tourism destination since the recent Asean Tourism Forum which was held here in January, but there are a new breed of tourists who are now discovering the nation, thanks to internationally-known local star, Wu Chun.

Fans of the superstar from Hong Kong, Thailand, China, Japan and Korea have been flocking to the country to visit his gym and his favourite local haunts to catch a glimpse of their favourite star in his homeland.

Jeanette Lim from Hong Kong and Ayako Ichigawa from Japan are two such "fan tourists" who came to Brunei and had the opportunity to not only speak with him, but to join in the Chinese New Year festivities that took place at Fitness Zone in Kiulap on Sunday.

"I came to Brunei to see the attractions and one of them is Wu Chun," said Lim.

"In Taiwan and Hong Kong, (Wu Chun) is usually surrounded by bodyguards and there are hundreds of people there. Here, you don't have to fight for his attention. It's so wonderful to be able to get close to him," enthused Lim.

She added: "Since I arrived, I have visited the beautiful mosques and the Water Village. To be here during the Lunar New Year is especially exciting as it is very beautiful and colourful," she added.

"I'm impressed with all the lion dances as they are different from the ones performed in Hong Kong. I especially like how there are lots of firecrackers, they make the ocassion very festive," said the Hong Kong tourist.

Ichigawa was impressed with the hospitality of the locals.

"I'm very surprised at how people are so welcoming. My friends and I have been invited to so many open houses."

"Before, we did not know anything about Brunei, but since Wu Chun became popular in Japan, we decided that it would be nice to visit the country, especially as he talks about it a lot in his interviews."

Ichigawa is also considering a return visit with other fans, but to also take the opportunity to discover more of the country. "Living in a densely populated area, I feel like Brunei is very relaxing and calming. Though we had some problems getting around, there were some friendly people who helped us make our way back to our hotel. I feel my time here was too short, and I am looking forward to coming here again."



source: The Brunei Times