Many businesses are already suffering as recession has hit them in Gadong and elsewhere.

There is also other factor: Gadong is paying the price of its rapid success.

Brunei is in the grips of a general recession as public spending has not made an impact. Gadong, which once seemed invincible, is not exempted these days.

A popular cafe in Gadong centre which used to take in $4,000 a day will consider itself lucky nowadays if it took half that amount.

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Especially during weekends Gadong is jam-packed. Many young people just hang about playing loud music in their cars putting hotel guests and others in distress late at night.

"These people, who normally do not shop but just hang around in their souped-up vehicles are just a nuisance and are not good for anybody," said a Gadong shopkeeper.

Also, because of congestion, noise and exhaust smoke pollution, some people are avoiding the once popular nightspot.