Dining

For the most part, Bruneians do not invite foreigners into their homes. If you are invited to a Bruneian home, consider it a great honor and testament to your personal relationship. And dining is among the Bruneian culture, customs, and etiquette that you should concern about. Punctuality is not strictly adhered to. You may arrive a little late without causing offense. Don't forget that shoes are generally removed before entering a house and you must greet the eldest person first. If you don't know where to sit, wait to be told.

It is considered good manners to accept an offer of food or a beverage. Turning down hospitality may be viewed as a personal rejection. In Brunei, you should wait to be invited to eat before starting. Food is often served buffet style or on a revolving tray in the center of the table. The guest of honor may be served first or the eldest person may. If you eat with your left hand, it is considered unclean. So, eat or pass food with your right hand only. However, many Malays eat with their fingers. Alternatively, they may serve cutlery for foreign guests, usually a fork and a tablespoon. If passing a plate that is heavy, you may use your left hand to support your right wrist. When you are finished eating, place your fork facing downward on your plate with your spoon, also facing downward, crossed over the fork.