UBD Sustainability
Futuring Sustainability through Green Campus
At Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), we are committed to fostering a sustainable, eco-friendly campus in line with the Brunei Green Protocol. Our initiatives focus on reducing our carbon footprint through energy-efficient technologies, sustainable building practices, and the creation of green spaces that enhance biodiversity. In addition, we priorities the health and wellness of our campus community by promoting active lifestyles, and access to green areas for physical and mental well-being. These efforts reflect UBD’s dedication to environmental sustainability, support the holistic health of our students and staff, and contribute to global actions in addressing climate change, leading towards a greener and healthier future for all.
Energy Efficient Campus
UBD is making significant strides towards a more energy-efficient lighting in line with the Green mark Certification Guideline on Lighting Power Budget (LPB), we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also optimising energy consumption across the university. The shift to LED lighting, with its long lifespan, is helping to minimise the need of frequent replacements, reducing both maintenance requirement and waste. This initiative is designed to create a more sustainable campus while enhancing the overall campus experience – providing improved visual comfort and fostering a productive learning and working environment.
Green Spaces and landscaping
UBD boasts expansive green spaces that are thoughtfully designed to promote biodiversity and serve as thriving natural habitats for local flora and fauna. These areas create an ecosystem that support a wide variety of plant and animal species, some of which are native and unique to Brunei. By preserving and enhancing these green spaces, UBD not only enriches the natural landscape but also contributes to the conservation of local biodiversity.
UBD’s open and green spaces are accessible to the public, offering a welcome environment for outdoor activities, relaxation, and community engagement. Visitors are encourages to enjoy these spaces throughout the day, with the main security control post closing at 10 p.p. for security purposes. We kindly ask that all guests adhere to campus guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
At the heart of the UBD campus lies the UBD Botanical Research Centre (BRC), covering a 6-hectareares of rate tropical lowland heath forest, locally known as “Kerangas Forest.” This unique ecosystem supports high conservation value species, including Agathis boreneensis (Tulong) and Gymnostoma nobile, which are key indicators of undisturbed Kerangas forests. Recognised as the first botanic garden in Brunei Darussalam, the UBD BRC focuses on research, education and the conservation Brunei’s hyperdiverse flora.
Government and non-government agencies regularly engage experts from the UBD Botanical Research Centre (BRC) to provide professional expertise on plant relocation and conservation efforts, supporting broader initiatives to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable ecosystems.
Home to over 500 species of tropical plants, many native to Brunei and Borneo, the centre operates under the management of the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER) and is a member of Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI)
Visitors interested in exploring the UBD BRC are requested to contact the centre in advance. Guided tours are available by appointment for a nominal fee, offering an enriching experience to learn about Brunei’s native flora and the university’s conservation initiatives.
For more information:
Water Conservation
As part of UBD’s commitment to advancing sustainable campus practices, a rainwater harvesting system has been installed at the new annex building of the Institute of Health Sciences (IHS). The system captures, filters, and stores rainwater from the rooftop, which is then reused for non-potable purposes such as toilet flushing, landscape irrigation, and general cleaning. Through this initiative, UBD reduces reliance on treated mains water, conserves valuable freshwater resources, lower utility costs, and fosters responsible water management within the campus community.
Responsible Waste Handling
The UBD Recycling Initiative aims to promote sustainability on campus by making recycling convenient and accessible for the university community. Recycling bins are strategically placed across campus for the collection of paper, plastic, and other recyclable materials, encouraging students, staff and faculty to dispose of waste responsibly. These efforts help reduce the amount of trash sent to landfills while promoting the reuse of valuable resources.
In July 2022, UBD launched the Paper Recycling Project to further promote and facilitate paper recycling within the university. To date, the project has successfully collected over 11 tons of printed waste for recycling across two cycles, with plans to continue expanding this initiative as part of our broader environmental sustainability goals.
Building on these efforts, UBD introduced RAKSA, our green mascot and the face for the Recycling and Composting Awareness Campaign, launched during Freshers Week 2025. RAKSA represents our shared commitment to sustainability and inspires the community to embrace responsible waste sorting, from recycling paper and plastics to composting food waste, helping us maintain a cleaner, greener campus.
As part of this campaign, short and engaging videos are released every Monday at 3pm, offering practical tips on how to recycle and compost effectively. By combining our established recycling established recycling programmes with RAKSA’s vibrant outreach, UBD continues to lead the way in reducing landfill waste, promoting resource recovery, and fostering a campus culture of environmental responsibility.
Sustainable Transportation
As part of out green campus initiative, UBD is enhancing sustainability by introducing sustainable transportation options. These include electric shuttle, dedicated bike paths as well as shuttle van services, promoting cleaner, greener mobility across the campus.
- Electric Shuttle
UBD has introduced an electric shuttle as part of its continued commitment ro reducing its carbon footprint, made possible the generous donation of UBD alumni. This initiative marks a significant step toward promoting sustainability on campus. Looking ahead, UBD plans to procure additional electric shuttles in the future, further supporting its commitment to environmental responsibility and contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions for a greener, more sustainable campus.
- Biking/Walking Paths
UBD offers biking and walking paths across campus, proving a sage and eco-friendly way for students, staff, and visitors to navigate the university while promoting physical activity and sustainable
UBD Shuttle can service is an important step in the university’s ongoing efforts to improve campus facilities and enhance convenience for the UBD community. This initiative not only supports the well-being and experience of students, staff, and visitors, but also plays a significant role in promoting sustainability. By offering a reliable transportation option, the shittle service reduces the need for individual car use, helping to reduce traffic and lower carbon emissions across the campus.
Health and Wellness
The Centre for University Life and Wellness (UniHEALTH) serves as the main hub for all health-related services at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), supporting both students and staff. It brings together physical health, mental well-being, and preventive care under one coordinated system, reflecting UBD’s commitment to a holistic approach to wellness.
The campus promotes healthy lifestyles by offering a variety of recreational sports and a fully equipped fitness centre, and by maintaining a smoke-free environment to support a safe and healthy campus for all.
UBD further strengthens accessibility by establishing an on-site clinic at the PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences Extension Building, improving access to medical care, health literacy, and psychological services for the campus community.
Access to Sports and Fitness Facilities
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is dedicated to promoting good health and wellbeing by providing extensive sports facilities that encourage physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle for students, staff, and the broader community. The UBD Sports Complex offers:
Outdoor Facilities:
- Swimming Pool
- Football Field
- Track and Field
- Futsal Courts
- Basketball Court
- Netball Court
- Volleyball Courts
- Tennis Court & Half Court
- Sepak Takraw Court
- Rugby Field
- Hockey Field
Indoor Sports Hall:
- Gym
- Futsal Court
- Basketball Court
- Netball Court
- Badminton Court
- Squash Court
- Volleyball Court
- Dodgeball Court
UBD also welcome members of the public to use these facilities. Registration with the sports facilities management is required, and usage fees apply. Additionally, UBD campus features pedestrian footpaths and open spaces that are freely accessible to the public for jogging, running, and brisk walking, supporting community health and well-being.
Smoke Free Campus
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) upholds a smoke-free campus in accordance with the Tobacco Order 2005, which aligns with Wawasan Brunei 2035’s vision for a healthier, more sustainable nation and supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being. The Tobacco Order 2005 strictly prohibits smoking and vaping in public spaces, government premises, and designated areas, including educational institutions. It also bans the import, sale, or distribution of tobacco products within the country.
To reinforce this commitment, UBD has installed clear signage across the campus to raise awareness of the health benefits of a smoke-free environment. There are no designated smoking areas within the campus premises, ensuring a completely smoke-free zone.
Smoking violations can be reported to the Office of Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE), which is responsible for enforcing the smoke-free policy and ensuring a healthy campus environment.
Health and Medical Services
The Rayyan Baharin Clinic, located at the PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences Extension Building, provides on-site medical and psychological services for students and staff. Services include general medical care, men’s and women’s health services, health screening, medical check-ups, and health counselling. Services are open to community, with special student rates.
In addition to on-site services, students may also access public healthcare services at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Muta-Wakkilah Hayatul Bolkiah Health Centre, approximately 10 minutes from campus, for non-urgent medical concerns. More comprehensive healthcare services are available at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital (RIPAS), located about 20 minutes away.
Students who prefer private healthcare services may access the Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC), located approximately 11 minutes from campus, which provides a wide range of paid medical services.
For further information on available health services and student support, students are encouraged to contact the Centre for University & Life Wellness (UniHEALTH) at their email Unihealth@ubd.edu.bn or instagram: @unihealth_ubd.
Mental Health Support
Mental health and wellbeing are fundamental to fostering a healthy, inclusive, and high-performing university community. At Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), UniHEALTH provides integrated and accessible support services that promote early care, reduce barriers to seeking help, and support positive mental health.
Support is available for a range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, loss, low self-esteem, addiction, and other issues affecting daily life.
What UniHEALTH Offers:
- Counselling and Emotional Support
Confidential individual, group, and online (telecounselling) sessions provide a safe space for staff and students to discuss personal challenges and receive professional guidance. - Psychological First Aid (PFA)
Our Psychological First Aid (PFA) Responders provide immediate, short-term support to help individuals feel safe, calm, and supported during times of emotional distress, helping to prevent longer-term mental health challenges. - Professional Counselling Services
UBD counsellors provide structured therapy and mental health support, contributing to early intervention and ongoing care for mental wellbeing. Services are guided by established ethical standards.
- Psychological First Aid (PFA)
- Learning Support
Assistance for students experiencing academic or learning difficulties, including access to disability-related facilities and resources. - Mental Health and Wellness Promotion
Programmes, campaigns, and stress management initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles and overall wellbeing.
Access and Additional Support
Appointments can be arranged via: therapy.unihealth@ubd.edu.bn
Additional support services include:
- Hope Line (145) – National emotional and psychological support helpline
- Ambulance (991) – Emergency medical assistance
Inclusive Support and Accessibility Services
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), through the Centre for University Life and Wellness (UniHEALTH), is committed to supporting both students and staff in achieving their full potential through inclusive participation in all aspects of university life. Dedicated support and accessibility services are provided to ensure equitable access to education, work environment, and campus services.
Support is available for individuals with temporary or permanent medical, psychological, sensory, physical, cognitive, or learning-related needs that may affect their participation. UBD upholds dignity, respect, equity and confidentiality, while promoting awareness and ensuring access to appropriate resources, reasonable adjustments, and support services for an inclusive university experience.
Support Services:
UBD provides coordinated support services, including:
- Identification and support for individuals with diverse needs
- Academic, professional and non-academic support
- Advice and guidance on learning, work and wellbeing support
- Coordination of inclusive support across university services
- Provision of learning/work support materials and appropriate accommodation
- Individual consultation and support planning
- Referral to external services or specialist support when required
Resources and Facilities
To support inclusive learning and working environments, UBD provides access to:
- Braille and accessible learning materials
- Enlarged and adapted academic/work materials
- Assistive technologies and specialised software
- Audio recording support for teaching and training materials
- Modified furniture and equipment
- Examination, classroom and workplace support arrangements
UBD is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for both students and staff. Appropriate resources, reasonable adjustments, and support mechanisms are in place to ensure equitable access to education, employment opportunities, and full participation within the university community.
Contact
Please contact the UniHEALTH Centre for assistance Unihealth@ubd.edu.bn
Healthy and Affordable Dining
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) provides a range of accessible and affordable dining options conveniently located across campus, all within easy walking distance. Campus food providers are carefully selected through a tender process that prioritises the provision of healthy, halal and reasonably priced meals, ensuring quality and inclusivity for the university community.
To further support students, selected campus eateries offer discounts through the use of student ID cards, making daily meals more budget-friendly. Together, these efforts create a supportive dining environment that promotes well-being, convenience, and a positive campus experience.
Inclusive Campus Design
UBD strives to ensure that all students and staff, regardless of abilities, have equal opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment where every individual can fully participate in university life. To support this vision, we have implemented essential accessible facilities, including ramps, handrails, lifts, automatic doors, accessible pathways, accessible toilets, and designated parking spaces, ensuring the campus is easily navigable for individuals with diverse mobility needs.
These efforts reflect UBD’s ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive and succeed, regardless of ability.