Stadium Negara Hassanal Bolkiah – stadium description

Built in 1983, this stadium was opened as celebration of sultan's 69^th birthday. To entertain crowds and the ruler, national team fought against Sheffield United, but failed to win or draw. Back then it was among the most impressive venues throughout the region, despite Brunei being one of the world's smallest countries.

Also worth mentioning, reports say that citizens have contributed to the cost, not minding the fact that public funding is available. Was it voluntary or forced in any way, we cannot judge, but the contribution was in excess of 1% or S$1 million.

Current name of this 30,000-seater praises ruling sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who also is the patron of Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy, tournament between national teams from South-East Asia. Everyday use is provided by football club DPMM, owned by sultan's son. After having dominated domestic league the team joined Malaysian premier league, later switching it for the Singaporean one.

In 1999 South-East Asian Games were staged here.