At the side of modern communities in the capital of Brunei, people in the centuries-old waterborne villages named Kampong Ayer carry on their tradition, with moderations.

Houses built in ancient style but supported by steel and cement stilts line up along the Brunei River in Bandar Seri Begawan, the nation’s capital. The cluster of villages now with a police station and a fire-brigade now draws visitors from around the region as a major historical and cultural heritage.

Kampong Ayer, literally meaning water village, sits almost at the heart of Brunei capital Bandar Seri Begawan. (WEN ZONGDUO / CHINA DAILY)

Small motor boats and other tour vessels can carry visitors in and out. (WEN ZONGDUO / CHINA DAILY)

The houses look quite different when getting close. (WEN ZONGDUO / CHINA DAILY)

　　(WEN ZONGDUO / CHINA DAILY)

The stilts can be a haven for some people. (WEN ZONGDUO / CHINA DAILY)

A primary school still houses students. (WEN ZONGDUO / CHINA DAILY)

The fire-brigade draws visitors from around the region. (WEN ZONGDUO / CHINA DAILY)