The late Hj.Hassan Hj.Abd. Ghani, V85HG and Dr.Hajime Kato, JO1RUR, World Record All CQ WW SSB holder 1998, 2000 & 2001, participating a contest using call sign V8A and equipment belonging to V85HG operating from Brunei Darussalam.
Amateur radio in Brunei Darussalam took off in the late 1970’s when several local signalers started the Askar Muda radio club, which helped established amateur radio among Bruneians. One of the more notable early members was the late Al-Marhum Seri Paduka Pengiran Temanggong Sahibul Bahar Pengiran Haji Mohammed with the call sign VS5PM.
Although amateur radio operators did not have a society, they still met regularly, especially at unofficial meetings. An ad-hoc committee of Brunei Amateur Radio Transmitting Society or BARTS was formed in 7th May 1982. The Registrar of Society formally approved its constitution in 12th. October 1982. It had about 20 members.
Vigorous efforts were made to promote the society. A regular newsletter was published and amateur radio classes were held to encourage more people to take the hobby. By 1987, the membership has increased to 130, mostly licensed amateur radio operators and the first Call Book was produced.
A letter from the Registrar of Society dated 7th. May 1988 consented the society change of name to Brunei Darussalam Amateur Radio Association or BDARA. This is in line with the aspiration of Brunei Darussalam as an independent and sovereign nation.
Getting more enthusiasts to join the society has been the prime mover of BDARA whose aims are:
- to promote and encourage interest of advancement in the science and art of radio communication.
- to render assistances of serviceto the Government of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and parties, if so needed in times of peace or emergency.
- to carry out various activities towards upgrading understanding, gain experience and accumulate knowledge in the recreational field of amateur radio.
- to facilitate the exchange of informations and ideas by fostering friendship and understanding amongst enthusiasts from friendly countries.
- to invest fund not urgently required in or upon such investments, security and property, as may be thought viable assets.
The interest in amateur radio has shown increase compared to previous years. More young members are needed to ensure that there are a strong number of experienced amateur radio operators who will be able to take the society into the next generation.
