"We encouraged each other, learned from one another and, most importantly, knew that we were not navigating those challenges alone," says a Royal Brunei Air Force officer.

Spots which offer both indoor and outdoor seating continue to see diners opting for tables outside, though there appear to be more tourists than locals braving the heat and haze.

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad stressed the importance of safeguarding the trust that families and young people place in mosques and religious teachers.