Implementing Adaptive Reuse for Existing Buildings in Brunei Darussalam / Mohammad Nor Adha Shah bin Sarugi

Dissertation Submitted in Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science

ABSTRACT
This study investigates adaptive reuse as a sustainable strategy for existing buildings in Brunei Darussalam, positioning it as an alternative to demolition and new construction.
The research employed a mixed-methods approach consisting of professional interviews with eight industry experts, a public perception survey, a case study of Panggong Bolkiah, and a review of relevant policies and regulations. The objectives were to identify the benefits of adaptive reuse, examine institutional and technical barriers, assess the applicability of international strategies, and propose a context-sensitive implementation framework. Findings demonstrate that adaptive reuse can generate economic and environmental advantages while supporting cultural continuity. However, significant challenges persist, including regulatory ambiguity, financial uncertainty, and limited public awareness. Comparative insights from Malaysia highlighted useful strategies but also revealed the need for frameworks tailored to Brunei's regulatory and cultural conditions. In response, a four-stage Adaptive Reuse Implementation Framework was developed, comprising Feasibility and Policy Alignment, Design Development and Technical Assessment,
Implementation and Construction, and Post-Occupancy
Evaluation and Monitoring. The framework was refined through a two-round Delphi exercise with professionals, which provided expert feedback and improved its structure.
Nevertheless, the framework remains exploratory as it was not tested in practice. The study concludes that adaptive reuse holds promise for advancing Brunei's sustainable development goals but requires stronger policy support, clearer legal mechanisms, and broader community engagement. Key limitations include the small number of professional participants, the limited scope of public input, and the preliminary nature of the framework validation. Future research should focus on pilot project testing, expanding stakeholder participation, and conducting deeper policy analysis to strengthen adaptive reuse practice in Brunei Darussalam.
Keywords: Adaptive reuse, heritage conservation, sustainability, abandoned buildings, urban revitalization, Brunei Darussalam.

Dissertation (Master of Science) - Universiti Teknologi Brunei

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