DAY 3 MORNING
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1ST MARCH 2025 MORNING
(Meeting begins at 9.30 am)
Yang Mulia Jurutulis
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. The First Meeting of the 21st Session of the National Council convenes for the third day today, Saturday, the 30th of Syaaban 1446 Hijrah corresponding to the 1st of March 2025 AD, preceded by a Doa Selamat.
DOA SELAMAT
[Doa Selamat recited by Yang Dimuliakan Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Mustafa bin Haji Murat]
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Alhamdulillah, we are grateful to Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala because, with His abundant mercy, we can convene on the third day of the First Meeting of the 21st Session of the National Council. May blessings and peace be upon our great leader, Sayidina Muhammad Sallahu alaihi wasallam, his family, companions, and faithful followers until the end of time.
Your Honourable Members, the National Council is still debating the motion of gratitude, and I now wish to continue this debate by inviting Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Retired) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Mohammad Yusof, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and the Second Minister of Defence.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II
Thank you. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Good morning and greetings of peace. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful (Doa recited).
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, kaola would like to express gratitude for the opportunity given to kaola to briefly speak in support of the motion by Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs, of the Motion of Gratitude Forward to the Council of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for the generous titah in conjunction with his attendance at the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 21st Session of the National Council on Wednesday, 27th Syaaban 1446 Hijrah corresponding to 26th February 2025 AD.
The titah of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam reflects his proactive thinking and far-sighted vision to ensure the continued well-being of the people and residents. It also reflects the continued commitment of His Majesty's Government to preserving the country's prosperity in line with the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Based on kaola's observation of the content of His Majesty's titah, there are three main points that kaola would like to highlight here. First, His Majesty's statement that the National Council serves as a platform for thought exchange, among others, based on the collection of priority matters from dialogue sessions, discussions, and working visits of appointed Council Members, is indeed very apt. This council is the highest discussion platform in the country, plays a significant role in national development and progress. It functions as a democratic platform based on Malay Islamic Monarchy where people's representatives can voice opinions and bring important issues to the Government's attention, in line with the concept of consultation in Islam and based on Brunei's constitutional rules. More importantly, this council acts as a liaison between the Government and the people, where through discussions in the council, the aspirations and concerns of the people can be directly communicated to policymakers, ensuring that Government policies remain relevant to the needs of the people.
Furthermore, His Majesty's titah to increase the frequency of the National Council sessions to twice a year will benefit the country's administration greatly. More frequent sessions allow continuous monitoring of Government policies and development projects, opening opportunities to address current issues more effectively, and also enhance accountability in the public sector through more frequent performance reporting by ministries and departments, thus promoting better performance in achieving the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
The second point in His Majesty's titah relates to the contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) which indicates significant national progress, with an average growth rate from 2017 to 2023 of 4.3% annually. This was driven by an extraordinary increase in the oil and gas sectors. His Majesty's titah also reminds us to work harder in reducing the country's dependency on oil and gas revenues. Current global challenges, such as oil price uncertainties, climate change, and supply disruptions, actually bring new opportunities to strengthen the economy. This situation encourages us to explore new fields, enhance innovation, and build a more resilient economy. It also urges us to take a more aggressive approach in diversifying the economy, increasing efficiency in the public and private sectors, and developing high-skilled human capital. This includes empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises, encouraging foreign investment, and leveraging digital technology to enhance productivity.
We must be aware that in our efforts towards economic development, a whole-of-nation approach is highly relevant because each party is interdependent in carrying out any efforts, including empowering existing industries or exploring new industrial products. The Government and private sector should cooperate and collaborate in planning any reform or effort to combat internal issues to enhance the country's growth and development. With frequent dialogue between the Government and private sector, any problems or challenges can be overcome, Insya Allah.
The third point that kaola is pleased to highlight is His Majesty’s call for the entire Government to continue transformation efforts to enhance nationwide productivity across sectors such as Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Health, Tourism, Security, and Public Services, and to explore new industries by leveraging technology centers towards realizing Wawasan Brunei 2035. His Majesty’s titah emphasizes the important role of the public sector in supporting national development and the welfare of the people. What is certain is that it is not only limited to administration and management but also includes providing quality services to the people, ensuring social harmony, and promoting continuous economic development. His Majesty’s titah also reminds us that in this fast-changing world, new challenges constantly arise, requiring relevant changes and innovations.
Therefore, transformation in the public sector is crucial to ensure it remains relevant and efficient in meeting the needs of the people and achieving national development agenda goals.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, we highly appreciate His Majesty's noble titah, which clearly contains a long-term vision and mission, offering deep insight into the future, especially to ensure the public sector in this country. With His Majesty’s broad and comprehensive vision, He invites us to strengthen efficiency, cultivate creativity, and enhance cooperation among all sectors to ensure the public sector remains relevant and efficient in facing future challenges. His Majesty's titah is invaluable advice, reminding us of the importance of moving forward with full awareness, always seeking ways to improve ourselves and meet the needs of the people more effectively. The main thing is that the vision, mission, and advice conveyed by His Majesty should be embraced together so that we can take more strategic actions and achieve greater progress for our beloved country, Brunei Darussalam.
Therefore, kaola is pleased to invite all Appointed Members to discuss openly and consult with each other by presenting views and opinions on important national issues, including new global issues, in line with the local context. This aligns with the titah of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, who hopes that this council meeting will serve as a platform for negotiations with integrity, creative thinking, and strategic actions, providing insightful opinions and suggestions based on relevant facts and data, and guided by best practices to advance our blessed land, the homeland we all love.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, before kaola concludes this motion of gratitude, kaola would like to take this special opportunity to wish everyone observing the obligatory Ramadan fasting an abundance of well-being, health, and strength in worship, and blessings, acceptance, and forgiveness from Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala (Doa recited).
Finally, kaola humbly again extend utmost gratitude to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzadin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, for His Majesty's benevolent titah. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I now invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohammad Danial@Tekpin bin Ya’akub.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohammad Danial@Tekpin bin Ya’akub
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings, in the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
With gratitude, it is my pleasure to support the motion of gratitude for the titah of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the First Meeting of the 21st Session of Brunei Darussalam. Indeed, His Majesty’s titah serves as a guideline and a reminder to kaola and all Your Honourable Members, as well as the Government, private sector, and residents of Brunei Darussalam, in fulfilling and executing our respective responsibilities towards achieving Wawasan Negara 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, kaola recognizes that our country is not exempt from facing global economic challenges, and these challenges will occur continuously. Efforts to strengthen the national economy are consistently carried out from all angles and perspectives. In His Majesty's titah, it also touched upon the increase in the external GDP from 2017 to 2023, which increased by 4% annually through the export of new products to foreign markets. This reflects the importance of diversifying new products with high market value to strengthen the national economy beyond oil and gas. Brunei Darussalam also has other potential products, such as high-quality and expensive glassware, which are important for the development and productivity of micro and small business entrepreneurs, each village with its unique product. Industry players within the country across all sectors need to be seen as important, even if they operate on a small scale, where financial aid and guidance are essential for individual enhancement, including the continuous updating of the business ecosystem to keep local players competitive in the global market.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, regarding responsibilities and His Majesty's role, transparency and integrity in conducting consultations with government agencies are essential to the successful implementation of every project or campaign to create meaningful public engagement. Kaola also welcomes the decision to hold the National Council Meeting twice a year, providing Your Honourable Members more opportunities to fulfill their entrusted responsibilities effectively and conducive.
So, Wabillahi taufik walhidayah, peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan.
Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim, Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
With gratitude to Allah for His grace and blessing, Kaola has the opportunity to be present in this esteemed Chamber and has the chance for the Motion of Gratitude for the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Session of the Legislative Council for the year 2025.
I fully support the Motion from the Minister of Religious Affairs, Negara Brunei Darussalam, to extend the deepest gratitude to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, who graciously attended the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Session of the Legislative Council.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members that I respect. His Majesty’s speech indeed carries significant meaning and profound insight, especially when His Majesty emphasizes the commitment of Your Honourable Members in executing the assigned duties and responsibilities. His Majesty's recommendations serve as a motivation for Your Honourable Members to continually improve in presenting constructive ideas that contribute to the nation's progress. Additionally, I warmly welcome any changes to enhance the Legislative Council, including drafting a Code of Ethics for Your Honourable Members of the Legislative Council. This change reflects His Majesty’s vision in enhancing the quality and integrity of the Legislative Council to remain relevant and respected, thus we, as citizens and residents of Negara Brunei Darussalam, should positively and actively contribute to realize His Majesty’s aspirations.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Regarding the question of transforming national productivity, His Majesty also hopes that efforts to diversify the economy across all sectors so that dependency on oil and gas products is well-balanced. This includes expanding socio-economic and business activities that should be led by local youths. As we know, many small businesses are still dominated by non-indigenous people, such as men's barber shops, lawn mowing services, tailoring shops, and more. I understand that the government offers skills courses for youths to help them start small businesses; therefore, I propose that the existing skills courses be expanded to adults, including those who are retired from governmental and private sectors, so that all age groups can benefit, especially those who wish to start a business.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. His Majesty’s speech also touches on the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in developing Brunei Darussalam. I believe it is time for AI to be advanced further in Brunei Darussalam. This includes enhancing the quality of public services such as Customer Service, Smart Car Parking, and others. However, the use of AI should also be monitored and balanced to ensure it is user-friendly and enjoyed by the public optimally. Finally, I humbly motion for the Honoring of His Majesty’s Decree, Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam.
With that, Wabillahi taufik walhidayah, Wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir.
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. (Recitation of prayer). Blessings and peace be upon the Greatest Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam, His family, His loyal and honest companions until the end of time in defending the glory of Islam, (Prayer recited).
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Here in this esteemed Chamber, I am pleased to support the Motion of Gratitude conveyed by the Minister of Religious Affairs. I support the Motion of Gratitude upon the Decree of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Session of the Legislative Council for the year 2025.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Alhamdulillah, His Majesty's care in the well-being of the citizens and residents of Negara Brunei Darussalam is highly honored when His Majesty decreed approval for non-citizen residents (stateless) to receive healthcare services similar to Brunei Darussalam citizens, for which we should be grateful under the leadership of a people-friendly, visionary, and wise monarch.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Furthermore, His Majesty also touches on government efforts to mobilize more business and tourism activities to Negara Brunei Darussalam, which directly affects the local businesses. In this regard, I hope that this positive impact also extends to Temburong District with the slogan Green Jewel.
The Tourism Sector should be driven through special programs with more interesting and new tourism activities. This includes upgrading tourism sites from the perspective of commercial tourism value that is progressive and sustainable. Additionally, efforts should be made to populate Temburong District from organizing social, sports, and business activities, whether at national or regional levels seen as important to drive progress and development in Temburong District.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Further, His Majesty also decrees regarding the cooperation of innovation and the fighting spirit of all parties necessary to achieve the National Vision 2035. In this regard, Kaola hopes any suggestions and ideas voiced in this esteemed Chamber by Your Honourable Members are examined and considered appropriately.
Kaola and other Your Honourable Members are always ready to sit at the table and discuss to achieve good results towards national progress and the welfare of the people. I welcome and humbly appreciate His Majesty’s consent to change the frequency of the Legislative Council sessions to twice a year, including updating the procedures and processes according to the Legislative Council (standing orders) to be fully practiced. This provides more room for debate as a check and balance for any progress made.
Finally, once again, I humbly express gratitude to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam who has graced the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Session of the Legislative Council. May all discussions and debates in this session proceed perfectly and orderly.
That concludes, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Wabillahi taufik walhidayah Wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Thank you, Your Honourable Members. As we know, we have debated the Motion for the Legislative Council to humbly express the fullest respect to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, who graciously attended the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Session of the Legislative Council on Wednesday, 27 Sha'ban 1446 corresponding to 26 February 2025. I think it is good now to vote on this Motion.
Your Honourable Members who agree to approve this Motion, please raise your hands.
[All Members raised their hands]
Thank you. It appears all Members agree, therefore this Motion is approved.
[Gavel sounded]
Alhamdulillah, to enable us to proceed with the meeting orderly and thoroughly, I think it is sufficient for us to be in session this morning. God Willing, we will reconvene this afternoon starting at 2:30.
That concludes. Wabillahi taufik walhidayah Wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
[The Legislative Council Meeting resumed at 2:30 pm]
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wata’ala wabarakatuh. Your Honourable Members, Alhamdulillah, the Legislative Council Meeting this morning has approved the Motion of Gratitude. Now, we move on to the next matter.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis
The Bill that will be proposed by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, with all due respect, Kaola presents and reads for the first reading a Bill entitled: “An Act to Supply a Sum of Money from the Consolidated Fund for the Services of the Financial Year 2025/2026 and to appropriate the said money for certain purposes.”
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members, the Bill that has been read for the first time by Yang Berhormat Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II. Now, I give permission for this Bill to be read for the second time and for Yang Berhormat to make the Budget Statement. Please proceed, Yang Berhormat.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, the Bill titled: "An Act to Provide a Certain Sum of Money from the Consolidated Fund for the Service of the Financial Year 2025/2026 and to Allocate the Said Money for Certain Purposes". Now, kaola read it for the second time and subsequently the Budget statement.
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim, (reciting a prayer). Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Praise be to Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala because with His permission and grace, and by virtue of the leadership, wisdom, and concern of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam, we are able to convene at the First Meeting of the 21st Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara.
For the Financial Year 2025/2026, the National Budget will be provided at BND6,350,000,000 in total to be drawn from the Consolidated Fund.
Next, kaola propose to table the Annual Supply Bill for the Financial Year 2025/2026 to allocate it for the purposes stated in the Schedule.
This budget is not just an annual plan; it is a continuous strategic step towards achieving the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035 and a collective commitment to ensuring the nation's continuous prosperity and resilience.
To begin with, kaola would like to seek permission to first share some of the initiatives, projects, and achievements, as well as opportunities provided by the Government for the citizens and residents of this country toward achieving the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, the year 2025 marks only 10 years left to achieve the country's great aspiration, Wawasan Brunei 2035. Alhamdulillah, various projects and initiatives have been implemented and resulted in commendable achievements, providing a solid foundation for us to move forward.
Among the main achievements in reaching Wawasan Brunei 2035 is under Goal I. Alhamdulillah, student achievements in public examinations, including Religious Education, continue to show an upward trend. Efforts to strengthen literacy and numeracy are also enhanced through various initiatives, including the implementation of national standards and more structured academic support programs.
In the performance of Higher Education Institutions, we also see encouraging progress in international recognition of institutions that reflect continuous efforts to ensure world-class academic quality. Among them, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) has achieved the 142nd position in the global ranking out of 749 universities listed based on the Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Ranking 2025, with achievements among Southeast Asia.
The UBD School of Business and Economics, on the other hand, has received the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation, making it part of the elite group of business schools that meet global excellence standards.
At the same time, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) has strengthened its position as one of the leading institutions in higher education that reflects its commitment to academic excellence and innovation in the competitive Southeast Asian region.
UTB has entered the global stage in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, where UTB managed to rank between the top 801 to 1000 globally and ranked 23rd in ASEAN, while in the World University Rankings 2025 by Subjects, UTB was ranked between 601 to 800 globally for engineering disciplines. This achievement is through innovative strategies introduced by UTB, especially with the establishment of the UTB Global Office.
UNISSA has also managed to improve its position in the World University Rankings for Innovation by achieving the 221st position overall. This international recognition will strengthen UNISSA's role as a leader in providing high-quality Islamic curriculum and research at national and global levels.
Additionally, the country's position in the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), an international assessment measuring the capabilities of 15-year-old students in reading, science, and mathematics in 2022 has improved in all three domains compared to the 2018 achievements. The achievement rate in literacy and numeracy based on the student learning survey also shows impressive increases, where the literacy of Year 1 and Year 3 students in 2023 reached 95% and 98%, respectively, while numeracy achievement in 2023 for Year 1 and Year 3 students reached 83% and 75%.
In the effort to achieve the second goal of a high standard of living, several achievements have demonstrated that citizens and residents of Negara Brunei Darussalam enjoy a very good quality of life, including access to high-quality health and welfare services, internationally rated and inclusive education systems, as well as accessibility to basic infrastructure, reflecting national well-being and economic stability. According to the Human Development Index (HDI) 2023-2024 report issued by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Negara Brunei Darussalam ranked 55th out of 193 countries with a score of 0.823 in the very high human development category. This achievement still shows that the country is among nations offering a very good quality of life.
One historical achievement in the landscape of national healthcare is the success of Jerudong Park Medical Center or JPMC in conducting the first liver transplant procedure in the country on February 1, 2025. The expertise, precision, and dedication demonstrated by the team involved reflect high-care standards, and this success paves the way for future advancements in local organ transplants, ultimately saving more lives.
In terms of providing safe, quality, and affordable housing through the National Housing Scheme, home ownership rates continue to record positive increases. In 2023, the home ownership rate rose to 67.1%. The government will continue to enhance its commitment to providing access to affordable, quality, and comfortable housing for citizens and residents in line with the goal of improving citizen welfare and ensuring better stability and quality of life.
Furthermore, Negara Brunei Darussalam continues to emphasize the quality of life, welfare, and well-being of its people, with electricity and water supply coverage at 99.9%, and more than 90% of the population with internet access.
Under the third goal of a dynamic and resilient economy, the government has been striving to implement several strategic measures in line with the Brunei Darussalam Economic Blueprint launched in 2021. These include attracting high-quality foreign direct investment, enhancing trade activities, and strengthening the labor market. Economic development is a primary focus that requires constant attention from all. It not only diversifies the nation's economic sectors but plays a specific role in supporting other efforts like knowledge transfer empowerment, improving education quality, fostering innovation and technology use, and more, ultimately strengthening the nation's socio-economy. Over the past few years, we've seen encouraging developments in advancing our economy, and these efforts will continue to be intensified using a whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach. Alhamdulillah, with wise, visionary, and authoritative leadership under Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, various initiatives have been implemented over recent years, yielding encouraging results.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, next, allow kaola to share several macroeconomic indicators reflecting the nation's economic position showing promising outcomes.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, I am pleased to share that the nation's economic growth for 2024 recently concluded, recorded a GDP of 4.2%. Kaola would also like to announce that this GDP growth is a significant achievement being the highest growth rate since 1999. However, we should not feel complacent or satisfied with this development. Instead, we must continue striving and enhancing our commitment to diversifying the nation's more sustainable economic sectors further. Economic diversification will create more activities that will positively impact the country's trade balance. In 2024, the nation recorded a trade surplus of $4.9 Billion, an increase of 18.1% compared to the previous year. Furthermore, in terms of exports, for the first time in 2021, the value of exports from non-oil and gas sectors increased, exceeding the export value of products from the oil and gas sector. This is a significant development considering non-oil and gas sector exports were below 10% in 2017.
In terms of GDP contribution from non-oil and gas sectors, it has increased from around 40% in 2017 to over 50% since 2022. This increased contribution from non-oil and gas sectors is driven by the nation's five priority sectors: oil and gas downstream, food, services, tourism, and ICT.
Throughout 2017 to 2024, contributions from these sectors have increased by 8.4%. Regarding the labor market, the unemployment rate for the workforce aged 15 and above recorded its lowest rate since 1991, at 4.8%, in 2024. The preliminary report of the 2024 labor force survey has shown several positive findings that kaola wishes to share in this esteemed chamber:
Firstly, the number of workers under the private sector has increased by 4% in 2024 compared to the previous year;
Secondly, the survey also indicates that 70% of the total workforce is employed in the private sector compared to the same survey in 2014 which showed only 53% of the workforce in the private sector;
Thirdly, this increase is driven by growth in the employee category. This is in line with findings from the 2024 business quarterly survey that showed significant increases in employment across various business activities, particularly in wholesale and retail trade, food services, petrochemical manufacturing, information and communication technology, and professional, technical, administrative, and support services sectors;
Fourthly, the self-employed category also recorded an increase driven by the growth in entrepreneurial activities and shifting economic trends towards a gig economy driven by digital platforms.
These developments indicate a positive trend in the labor market, showing that local youth have embraced challenges and are no longer reliant on the government sector, choosing the private sector as their employment preference. Therefore, the government will continue collaborating with all relevant parties, including the private sector, in joint efforts to create more job opportunities for the citizens and residents of this country.
In terms of the national inflation rate, Alhamdulillah, in 2024, the national inflation recorded a decline of 0.4% compared to 2023, driven by a 0.6% decrease in the non-food index, following a drop in prices primarily for clothing and footwear, communication, and transportation. In contrast, the food and non-alcoholic beverages index showed an increase of 0.5%, particularly in the prices of soft drinks, eggs, cakes, pastries, and biscuits.
However, several staple items like chicken, imported fish, and cooking oil overall recorded a price decline in 2024 compared to the previous year.
The government will continue to play a crucial role in reducing the cost of living through subsidies for essential necessities like rice, fuel, electricity, and water. Without these subsidies, the citizens would be more affected by inflation as experienced in most other states. To ensure price transparency and ease price comparison for essential items, the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics continues to monitor weekly prices of essentials and publishes market price reports through the smart consumer app. This step not only raises consumer awareness but also promotes healthy competition in the market. These measures reflect the government's ongoing commitment to ensuring citizen welfare, not only through inflation control but also through policies that guarantee access to essential needs at reasonable prices.
At the same time, as part of efforts to achieve the third goal under Wawasan Brunei 2035, strategic collaboration with credible foreign investors plays an essential role in empowering key sectors to foster technology transfer, enhance local competitiveness, and open new job opportunities for private sector development contributing to sustainable economic growth.
As of January 31, 2025, there are 26 foreign direct investment or FDI companies operating in Negara Brunei Darussalam, and additionally, 15 FDI projects are still in the implementation phase and are expected to operate between 2025 and 2027.
A significant portion of these investments focuses on the oil and gas downstream sector followed by food and business services sectors. InsyaAllah, with continued foreign direct investment, job opportunities for local youth are expected to continue increasing.
Alhamdulillah, with the achievements that Kaola shared earlier, Kaola would like to express the highest appreciation to all parties, whether from the public or private sectors, for the efforts and commitment given in realizing these goals. However, we cannot be satisfied and complacent with these achievements. We must not be negligent or complacent and should immediately redouble our efforts with a sense of urgency to fully realize the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
This aligns with the titah of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam, during the first meeting of the Majlis Tertinggi Wawasan Brunei 2035 for the year 2023, where he remarked:
"...we do not want Wawasan Brunei 2035 to be mere rhetoric, as an empty dream, but we want it to be fully realized as the primary development agenda of the nation...".
Towards achieving Wawasan Brunei 2035 and the subsequent years, as a small and open country, we will undoubtedly face various challenges such as the rapid advancement and transformation of information technology, increased cyber threats, issues related to climate change and environmental pollution, as well as significant social and demographic changes.
At the same time, we also need to consider the possible impacts of geopolitical instability, developments in skills and education, challenges related to health, and other factors beyond our control.
Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam also stated during the same council meeting that these uncertainties inevitably force us to think more focused on policy examination and capabilities.
It must be remembered that the original formation of Wawasan Brunei occurred during a different time compared to now. Therefore, to see it always relevant and superior, we need to ensure that what is planned remains a target.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Next, Kaola will explain about the Preparation of the National Budget Estimate for the Financial Year 2025/2026, based on analysis and assessment made on the global and the Negara Brunei Darussalam economic prospects, government spending priorities, and the financial capability of the government to fund these expenditures.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. In an increasingly interconnected world, the economy of Negara Brunei Darussalam is not exempt from the effects of global changes, especially in the trade and investment sectors. The World Economic Outlook report published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in January 2025, provides an overview of the global economic projection, expected to grow positively at a rate of 3.3% for the years 2025 and 2026. This projection is still below the average rate of 3.7% for the period between the years 2000 to 2019.
For Negara Brunei Darussalam, the economic growth rate is expected to increase between 2.4% to 3.4% for the year 2025. International financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), and Asian Development Bank (ADB) also show confidence in the nation's economic prospects, each projecting positive growth at rates of 2.5%, 2.1%, and 2.8%, respectively. These projections take into account the recovery efforts and economic diversification, particularly the downstream oil and gas industry production, and related activities from Hengyi Industries Sdn. Bhd., Brunei Methanol Company Sdn. Bhd., and Brunei Fertilizer Industries Sdn. Bhd.
However, as a small and open country, the increasing geopolitical instability poses potential disruptions in the global energy market and supply chain. Besides, the nation will also be affected by the economic situations of key trading partners, which will have direct implications on the nation's trade and investment. Global inflation is expected to continue decreasing from 5.8% in 2024 to 4.3% in 2025.
Nevertheless, some challenges remain, including high financing costs, geopolitical uncertainty, and trade fragmentation. The nation is not exempt from these impacts, as nearly 70% of the country's goods are imported. High reliance on imports, especially food, makes the country vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, fuel price hikes, weather, and export trading country policies. Therefore, we need to expand import sources and boost local production to ensure price and supply stability.
The IMF also forecasts global trade to grow by 3.2% in 2025 amidst increasing economic fragmentation. The effects of increased protectionism, trade, and shifts to intra-block trade can reduce global trade efficiency—raising costs and affecting the resilience of supply chains, especially for the manufacturing and energy sectors.
Meanwhile, the nation's reliance on oil and gas exports makes government revenue vulnerable to oil price volatility. Therefore, in moderate global trade conditions, demand for national export products may also be affected. Efforts to strengthen economic diversification must continue to be accelerated. We must ensure that export products outside the oil and gas sector become more competitive internationally to achieve sustainable growth.
This global economy is undergoing rapid changes driven by technological advancements, shifts in the energy landscape, and the urgent need to prioritize environmental sustainability.
Towards that end, we also need to take appropriate actions to ensure this country remains competitive and well-prepared to face the risks of the new climate reality and technological advancements, such as Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity.
Therefore, the annual budget must be prepared more wisely, taking these changes into account, such as the provision of green infrastructure and including elements of environment, social, and governance.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Permit Kaola to share the government's fiscal position after the closure of the Financial Year 2023/2024 accounts, where the government recorded a revenue collection of BND3.69 billion, a decrease of 41.8% compared to BND6.35 billion in the Financial Year 2022/2023.
This considers the decline in revenue from the Oil and Gas Sector, which amounts to BND2.73 billion. On the expenditure side, the government has recorded an increase of 0.4% to BND6.11 billion compared to BND6.08 billion for the Financial Year 2022/2023. Following this, for the Financial Year 2023/2024, the government recorded a budget deficit of BND2.42 billion compared to a budget surplus of BND260.46 million in the Financial Year 2022/2023.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Kaola is pleased to share that based on projections and world economic directions at present, considering the nation's oil and gas production level, government revenue estimates for the Financial Year 2025/2026 are projected to amount to BND3.26 billion, with BND2.45 billion or 75% from the Oil and Gas Sector, and BND802.24 million or 25% from the non-oil and gas sector. The breakdown of these revenues is among others:
Firstly, total tax revenue collection amounts to BND224.17 million, including BND197 million from corporate income tax and stamp duty, BND14.1 million from vehicle licenses under the Land Transport Department, BND8 million from taxes under Municipal Boards, and BND5 million from land tax;
Secondly, a total of BND103.7 million from import and excise duty collection under the Royal Customs and Excise Department;
Thirdly, revenue from fees and charges totaling BND236.1 million, including from the Department of Electrical Services estimated at BND168 million, from the Ministry of Health estimated at BND14.7 million from hospital service fees and charges, and from the Department of Immigration and National Registration, estimated at BND10 million for immigration services;
Fourthly, revenue from rental and commercial income from the sale of goods and services totaling BND99.4 million, including from the Housing Development Department estimated at BND60.2 million and from the Public Works Department estimated at BND26.2 million; and
Subsequently, revenue from financial income totaling BND102.2 million, with BND61.73 million from investment and savings returns, and BND40.49 million from surplus revenue from statutory bodies.
For the Financial Year 2025/2026, the proposed national budget is BND6.3 billion in total. Thus, based on the revenue and expenditure estimates Kaola mentioned earlier, the government is expected to experience a budget deficit of approximately BND3.1 billion. This deficit projection will be updated from time to time based on the national oil and gas production level, global oil prices, US Dollar exchange rates, non-oil and gas sector income, and actual government expenditure.
In facing fiscal challenges, the government will continue to design more effective strategies in ensuring that investments made bring sustainable and resilient returns to the country in the long term.
Therefore, this budget should be viewed as a strategic roadmap that prioritizes investments for the welfare of the people and population, as well as industrial development that will contribute to sustainable economic growth. This budget balances short-term needs with long-term goals. More importantly, it reflects our commitment to the aspirations of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam to make Negara Brunei Darussalam a strong, united, and forward-looking country as outlined under Wawasan Brunei 2035.
In addition to the provisions provided by the government, government-related companies or GLCs also play an important role in supporting national budget priorities, especially in strengthening the private sector as a driver of economic growth.
The government has implemented various initiatives involving GLCs and cooperation with foreign direct investments or FDI to stimulate economic activities and enhance the country's competitiveness. These initiatives not only encourage economic activities and infrastructure development but also provide more job opportunities for locals.
Therefore, the public and private sectors must continue to work hand in hand in expanding economic diversification, strengthening project implementation through public-private partnerships, and attracting more foreign direct investments.
These measures are crucial to reducing dependence on the government and strengthening the country's fiscal resilience, ensuring continuous prosperity and well-being for future generations.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Kaola will transition to the National Budget Theme for the Financial Year 2025/2026. The Budget Theme for the Financial Year 2023/2024 and 2024/2025, “Building A Prosperous Future Together,” will be maintained again for the last time for the Financial Year 2025/2026.
This is to ensure continuity and a consistent and integrated approach in the implementation of policies and spending objectives. It is also maintained to continue projects and initiatives that have been planned or are being implemented towards achieving strategic goals to realize the objectives under Wawasan Brunei 2035.
This Budget Theme focuses on three priorities as follows:
First, Enhancing Public Well-being and Productivity;
Second, Nurturing Sustainable Economic Diversification; and
Third, Developing a Dynamic and Visionary Human Capital.
This theme serves as a strategic guide to ensure the optimal use of national resources with emphasis on sustainable and inclusive development to build a dynamic and resilient economy, ensuring the well-being of the people and inhabitants is continuously preserved.
This includes enhancing the implementation of initiatives and projects that can stimulate economic growth, diversify economic sectors, and improve the business environment to attract quality investments, including from Government-Linked Companies or GLCs. These efforts are essential for creating quality jobs for local people, especially in the private sector.
Therefore, the government will also remain committed to providing high-quality and accessible infrastructure to facilitate economic activities, while focusing on inclusive education. This aims to produce skilled, employable individuals who are future-ready in line with industry needs, thus contributing to national productivity.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua Dewan, Kaola will briefly elaborate on these priorities, including their development and achievements.
First, Enhancing Public Well-being and Productivity.
This first focus reflects the Government's commitment to ensuring the well-being and welfare of the people are continuously preserved. It is based on a vision to form a healthier, more educated, and productive society, allowing every individual to play a vital role in building a stable, prosperous, and competitive nation. By ensuring the people have access to quality basic facilities, efficient energy, and extensive opportunities for growth, we are not only investing in today's well-being but also ensuring a more prosperous future for the current and upcoming generations.
The well-being of the people does not only depend on a strong economy but also on high-quality infrastructure. Therefore, the government continues to prioritize the development of basic infrastructure including roads, energy, clean water, and public facilities so that every layer of society can enjoy a more comfortable and productive life. Several allocations are also provided under the Rancangan Kemajuan Negara (RKN) where these development projects not only meet the daily needs of the people but also drive the country's socioeconomic growth. For the information of Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Insya Allah the allocations regarding the Projects under the RKN will kaola share during the Presentation of the 2025/2026 Development Fund Proposal during kaola's presentation of the Development Fund Resolution Motion later.
In efforts to support economic development and the well-being of the people, a stable, efficient, and environmentally friendly energy supply is a core principle. In this regard, the government through various strategic measures remains committed to strengthening the energy infrastructure to ensure consistent power supply reliability and support future development. To meet the increasing demand for electrical energy, Berakas Power Company Sdn Bhd will construct a 120-megawatt, Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) Power Plant with construction expected to begin in the second quarter of 2025 and fully operational by 2027.
This project aims to ensure the reliability of the power supply and maintain an adequate reserve margin to meet long-term energy needs. With the use of more efficient and environmentally friendly turbine technology, this project also contributes to gas consumption savings and supports the national sustainable development goals. The total investment cost of this project is $419.4 million.
In addition, the government continues to provide allocations under Recurrent Expenditure amounting to a total of $153 million, which includes ensuring stable and sufficient electricity supply throughout all areas, including ensuring power stations consistently operate at reliable levels and strengthening the electricity distribution network across the country.
To strengthen the people's access to clean water sources and ensure the water supply infrastructure is preserved; and to improve road safety and accessibility, various road maintenance projects will continue, including upgrading strategic routes nationwide. This effort is to ensure smoother movement, thereby supporting economic and social activities.
To enhance service quality through the use of information and communication technology or ICT, an Online Hajj Registration System under the Ministry of Religious Affairs through the Hajj Management Department has been launched, known as Bruhaj. This system allows citizens and residents intending to perform Hajj to register online, which was previously done manually. This initiative not only increases productivity and saves time but also provides greater convenience to the community, especially prospective Hajj pilgrims, by ensuring quick, systematic, and more user-friendly registration.
In line with technological advancements, kaola want to share about the Unified Smart Metering System (USMS), where as of December 2024, a total of 122,877 smart meters have been installed. Through this system, users can monitor their electricity and water usage in near real-time and receive SMS notifications for low credit, where credit purchasing can be done through various payment alternatives, and bill payment can be automated.
Since the merger of telecommunication network infrastructure in 2019, Unified National Network Sendirian Berhad (UNN) has carried out enhancement and improvement works on infrastructure for fixed access networks to fibre services nationwide, resulting in the country's broadband fibre coverage increasing from 51% in January 2020 to 110% in November 2024.
In 2024, a total of 16 new sites in remote areas in the Belait, Tutong, and Temburong districts have been equipped with Mobile Single Radio Access Network (SRAN) infrastructure.
This will be followed by the installation of fibre and mobile infrastructure on three more new sites in Ulu Tutong. The installation of mobile coverage using a solar hybrid energy system has been completed in areas like Kukub, Biadong Ulu, Sukang, and Melilas in March 2024.
As a result of the upgrade and improvement of the SRAN network infrastructure for mobile services since 2020, the country launched the 5G network service in 2023, on par with several other ASEAN countries. The 5G network service is a technology with low latency or low latency that can offer less than 10 milliseconds latency.
The government will continue to give priority to initiatives towards a digital transformation plan to increase public service performance efficiency and productivity to ensure people receive high-quality, easily accessible, and responsive services that meet needs.
Towards this aim, the government will provide a total allocation of BND146.45 million under Recurrent Expenditure for ministries to finance IT Central Procurement and software licenses for all government ministries and departments.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Priority will also continue to be given to further strengthen the national Health system to enhance its capability to effectively respond to any health needs and any changes or health paradigm challenges currently and in the future. These efforts include ensuring all required medical equipment, diagnostic equipment, medicine stock, and human resources are at a satisfactory and adequate level.
Various factors, including rising medical house and medicine prices, medical technology innovation, and challenges such as pandemic disease outbreaks, will continually test the resilience of the national health system. This includes the ageing population that requires increasingly complex healthcare.
In this context, the government always emphasizes the importance of care and early prevention and prioritizes a healthy lifestyle that can help reduce chronic diseases and thereby reduce pressure on our healthcare system.
As a measure to strengthen the resilience and effectiveness of the health system, the government will continue to leverage digital technology to expand access to services and enhance user experience.
As one initiative towards improving the quality of healthcare services, the government has introduced BruHealth 5.0. This application is equipped with new features such as the addition of health screening under the national health examination program for early disease prevention and detection. Each individual's health index and health monitoring through daily routines.
At the same time, strategic measures continue to be implemented to improve the effectiveness of healthcare services. One of these is through the strategic integration between Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) and Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC) on 1 January 2025.
This integration aims to create a united vision within the national healthcare landscape, enhance efficiency, and support efforts to make the country a destination for medical tourism.
Besides, this integration is planned to make JPMC a knowledge hub for training doctors and other health professionals, thus improving the quality of healthcare in the country.
To meet the country's nursing needs, the JPMC College of Health Sciences (JCHS) has been established in collaboration with Far Eastern University from the Republic of the Philippines. So far, the college has had 3 intakes in the Foundation in Science program with 301 students and 2 intakes in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with 207 students.
Additionally, the college is also targeted to become a center for local and international nursing students. In ensuring that people continue to receive quality, equitable, comprehensive, and easily accessible healthcare, the government continues to enhance its commitment to strengthening the national healthcare system in line with the evolving treatment needs and advancements in medical technology.
This effort extends beyond health aspects to include prevention, research, and the provision of more modern medical infrastructure. It also aims to address increasingly complex health challenges, including the rise of non-communicable diseases, elderly healthcare, and preparedness for global health outbreaks and crises.
Towards this end, the government will provide an allocation under Recurrent Expenditure of BND 425.2 million for the Financial Year 2025/2026 to the health sector, including the maintenance of the BruHealth and Bru-HIMS systems to ensure these digital systems continue operating well to support national health management.
The recruitment of professional personnel such as nurses on contract, lab technicians, and patient care assistants, as well as the provision of food and drink supplies in hospitals nationwide to ensure quality healthcare services including clinical support services.
Purchasing medicines, consumable medical equipment, and laboratory testing needs, critical patient care services including heart treatment at Gleneagles JPMC, cancer treatment at the Brunei Cancer Centre, and stroke and neurology rehabilitation treatment at the Brunei Neuroscience Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre, as well as addressing critical public health issues including infectious disease outbreak management, care programs and research to enhance national preparedness for future health threats.
Although the government continues to strive to improve the access and quality of nearly free health services, the responsibility for maintaining health does not lie solely on the medical system but also on every citizen and resident of this country.
Therefore, every individual is encouraged to practice a healthy lifestyle, undergo regular health checkups, and take preventive measures to reduce disease risk.
As a country with Universal Health Coverage offering a high-standard healthcare system, the citizens also play a role in responsibly taking advantage of the facilities provided, avoiding waste of medical resources, and appreciating the sacrifices of the health frontlines. With this shared commitment, insya Allah, Negara Brunei Darussalam will continue to grow into a nation with healthy, productive, and prosperous people.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. In promoting green economic growth, Negara Brunei Darussalam and the United Kingdom through the UK - Brunei Strategic Dialogue: Brunei Green Economy Framework have launched the Brunei Green Economy Report to outline a strategic direction for capabilities and guiding economy diversification strategies. This is one national initiative to achieve the Net Zero Emissions aspiration by 2050.
The report aims not only to share the importance of resilience in transitioning towards a green economy, but it has also identified business opportunities and activities that can be explored by private sectors in this country.
At the same time, this report can also serve as a reference source to improve policies and initiatives to address upcoming challenges such as climate change and economic sustainability.
In the education sector, the Ministry of Education is actively reforming an educational plan that supports environmental sustainability. This will include several strategic initiatives, including the development of sustainable school infrastructure, educational programs to raise environmental awareness, research towards sustainable innovation, and more.
This effort will not only directly nurture skilled human resources in the green sector development in this country but also strengthen the country's commitment to sustainability, which subsequently has the potential to attract more foreign investors in related fields.
As part of the country's efforts to strengthen sustainable development and green innovation, Universiti Teknologi Brunei has established the Centre of Green Technology and Sustainable Research to lead green and sustainable technology research initiatives in the country.
In addressing unpredictable weather conditions such as floods, Mitigation Projects continue to be a priority alongside efforts to improve the drainage system and build flood control infrastructure. These measures aim to reduce flood risks in affected areas, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of the people in this country. Towards this, an allocation of BND25 million will be provided for disaster management to enable government agencies to cooperate in addressing occurrences like floods, landslides, and the like.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. The agriculture, fisheries, and livestock sectors continue to be crucial pillars in our efforts to develop a sustainable and resilient economy. With international strategic cooperation, innovative local initiatives, and investments in modern technology, this sector will not only ensure food security but also contribute to socioeconomic development and enhance the country's competitiveness regionally and globally.
The government will continue to strive to ensure that this sector becomes a major contributor to ensuring the nation's food security by focusing on enhancing productivity and domestic production while reducing dependence on imports.
This step is also a proactive approach to tackling various external challenges, including climate change, natural disasters, geopolitical issues, and inflation. A key example of strengthening national food security is the development of the Kandol agricultural area. Infrastructure covering 174 hectares of paddy fields and 58 hectares of water reservoirs was fully completed in November 2023.
The target production from this area over a 5-year period is 2,088 metric tons per year with a pro rata yield of 6 metric tons per hectare. In the Financial Year 2024/2025, PaddyCo Sdn. Bhd., a GLC company, has planted 74 hectares, while the remaining area is being prepared for full planting in the Financial Year 2025/2026.
The cumulative yield from 9 planting seasons has reached 288 metric tons of rice as innovative trials of using organic fertilizers and compost have shown an increase in yield of more than 1 metric ton per hectare compared to the previous season. Although this area is new land, this initiative reflects PaddyCo Sdn. Bhd.'s commitment to increasing productivity.
Additionally, the government, through the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, is currently managing 72 agricultural development areas to support business needs in this sector.
As of December 2024, 37% or 26 Agricultural Development Areas or ADAs have been equipped with the necessary infrastructure to support agricultural activities more effectively.
This development reflects the government's ongoing efforts to provide modern and appropriate facilities to support increased productivity and competitiveness in the agricultural sector in strengthening international cooperation. The government recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding or MOU with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, People's Republic of China.
The MOU focuses on research and development in the rice, crop, and livestock sectors, as well as the potential of the National Rice Research Centre. This cooperation will also introduce high-yield hybrid rice seeds and enhance technical expertise to strengthen the national rice value chain.
To increase rice production efficiency, Wasan Milling Company Sdn Bhd, another GLC company, took over rice milling operations in August 2022. The company is upgrading milling facilities, including building vertical dryers and rice storage (silo) facilities, expected to be completed by mid-2025. The milling capacity will increase from 3 metric tons per hour to 10 metric tons per hour. Additionally, Wasan Milling Company plans to import raw materials like paddy to be processed and sold in the local market as a step to maximize the use of milling facilities and increase the country's rice self-sufficiency level.
To support the agriculture and fisheries sectors, several provisions will be provided under the Recurring Expenditure, including purchasing hybrid rice seeds under the rice repurchase scheme for sale to rice farmers to further increase national rice production.
And projects such as the construction and deployment of artificial reefs and fish shelters to support efforts to enhance output under the fisheries sector. In efforts to strengthen food security and increase import substitution for the country's food resources, the government, through the Brunei Economic Development Board or BEDB, is attracting foreign direct investment companies to establish their businesses in the food sector in this country.
This step not only aims to increase the capacity for local food production and export but also contribute to generating meaningful employment opportunities.
For example, in efforts to produce breeding stock domestically, BEDB is in discussions with several international companies to establish Poultry Parent Stock facilities for broiler and layer chicken production to ensure a sufficient local chicken supply.
Additionally, in the seafood sector, discussions with an FDI company are underway to establish an Integrated Aquaculture Centre that will strengthen the entire aquaculture industry value chain, from broodstock handling, hatchery, and grow-out, to research and development.
Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. The second budget priority is to foster sustainable economic diversification. The government will continue to focus on supporting economic growth and strengthening the role of the private sector in shaping a resilient national economy.
This effort involves increasing productivity through collaboration with local businesses and GLCs, including providing initiative schemes, training programs, business ecosystems, infrastructure facilities, and business sites to support micro, small, and medium enterprises or MSMEs.
BEDB continues to play a crucial role in promoting entrepreneurship and strengthening the business ecosystem, especially for MSMEs in the country. Among the initiatives implemented is the Proudly Brunei Business Awards, which recognizes the achievements and business excellence of selected local companies across various sectors.
And the Brunei Start-up Summit serves as a platform to connect local entrepreneurs with industry experts, investors, and regional business leaders. This program aims to enhance the competitiveness of start-ups through experience sharing, business networking, and guidance from experts in innovation and technology.
In addition, it also supports the government's target in driving more sustainable economic growth by emphasizing the importance of digital entrepreneurship and leveraging technology in MSME businesses.
Collaborating with banking parties in organizing the Empowerment Series Workshop, which aims to guide MSMEs in strengthening their business resilience. The workshop focuses on financial management and digital marketing strategies.
Furthermore, BEDB has introduced several initiatives in bridging the gap between government and private sectors and understanding the business challenges faced by the local business community.
This includes holding the BEDB Engagement Series, a collaboration with relevant government agencies in providing business-related processes and services offered by the government.
Conducting a Roundtable Dialogue with the Belait Business Community on December 12, 2024, involving 26 representatives from the private sector.
This session is to facilitate dialogue between government agencies and the business community to strengthen cooperation and foster collaboration to recover and enhance local economic activities.
InsyaAllah, BEDB will hold the micro, small, and medium enterprise or MSME Roundtable Series in the first quarter of 2025 to create a more pro-business ecosystem by fostering productive opinion exchange, addressing business and commercial issues through innovative approaches, and supporting business-friendly policies that stimulate growth and resilience of the local MSME sector.
In response to the command of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Session on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, which is to encourage more economic and tourism activities in the country that can bring positive spillover effects to local businesses.
The government continues efforts to attract high-quality investment that can generate sustainable growth and employment opportunities for the people. In this regard, BEDB and Tipolis Private Limited, a company from Singapore, have signed an agreement to conduct a feasibility study on the development of a special economic zone in the country. This initiative aligns with the country's commitment to positioning Negara Brunei Darussalam as a competitive investment destination by leveraging innovation and technology and modern economic development capital that contributes to the nation's long-term prosperity.
As part of efforts to diversify the national economy and reduce dependence on the oil and gas industries, food processing and manufacturing companies under the Darussalam Asset Group, such as Royal Brunei Culinary Sdn Bhd (RBC), PDS Abattoir Sdn Bhd (PDS), and Ghanim International Corporation Sdn Bhd have successfully expanded their markets overseas.
Alhamdulillah, several key achievements have been obtained through close cooperation with various stakeholders such as the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Darussalam Enterprise, and the Darussalam Food Authority, including in March 2024, Ghanim Company successfully completed its first export container shipment to Sabah, Malaysia, containing Brunei Shrimp Crackers produced at the Brunei Food Industry Development Multipurpose Processing Facility.
In December 2024, PDS carried out its first export shipment to Singapore after obtaining accreditation from the Singapore food agency, enabling the export of processed meat products to the Singapore market. Additionally, several products like beef concentrate, sausages, corned beef, kek batik, and shrimp crackers are now exported to Sabah, Malaysia, and Singapore.
This initiative not only opens new opportunities for local products to penetrate international markets but also contributes to strengthening the food processing sector as a key contributor to national economic development to ensure the continuous growth of the food processing industry.
Continuous support in the form of infrastructure, incentives, and access to new markets is crucial. This step is in line with the aspirations of Brunei Vision 2035 to make the country a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive economy at both regional and international levels.
For example, the establishment of Brunei Rotary Engineering Sdn Bhd, a collaboration between the Strategic Development Capital Fund (SDC) and Rotary Engineering Pte Ltd from Singapore, reflects the government's commitment to leveraging strategic foreign direct investment.
This initiative aims to develop Negara Brunei Darussalam as a premier engineering hub in the region by offering advanced engineering and maintenance services to local and regional companies.
Through knowledge and technology transfer, including specialized training both domestically and internationally, this effort will ensure the local workforce is equipped with skills to compete globally.
Additionally, this initiative is expected to stimulate technological innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and open new opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
In line with the growth of foreign investment, major downstream oil and gas sector projects continue to expand, including high-impact investments like those by Hengyi Company, which has reevaluated the phase 2 feasibility study to optimize project scope, improve financial performance, and meet market demand.
Based on this review, phase 2 includes plans to further increase plant processing capacity from 8 million metric tons to 12 million metric tons per year. A joint venture between the government through SDC and foreign investor Liva Chemie Pte Ltd was signed at the end of July 2024 for the establishment of a new company, Polygel Intermediate Sdn Bhd.
This company will handle acetic acid and aniline projects at the Sungai Liang Industrial Site (SPARK) and will add value to existing local raw materials from Brunei Fertilizer Industries, Brunei Methanol Company, and Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd. The plant is expected to commence operations in 2027 and will further expand the opportunities for additional product production in the country. Brunei Fertilizer Industries began producing urea fertilizer in early 2022. As of December 31, 2024, the urea fertilizer export volume has exceeded 2.4 million metric tons, with an estimated value of over USD 1 billion, sold to Southeast Asian countries, East Asia, Australia, East Africa, and South America.
The expansion of Sungai Liang Industrial Park (SPARK) aims to enhance logistics and operational efficiency for existing and new occupants, increasing SPARK's attractiveness as a high-value foreign direct investment destination.
Additionally, discussions continue with companies from various regions to attract more investment to increase high-value economic activities such as activities in Petroleum Intermediate Derivatives.
The government also prioritizes efforts to expand sectors such as tourism and international trade that can stimulate local businesses, create employment opportunities, and directly enhance the overall economic well-being of the community and residents in supporting the aspiration to diversify the economy and further strengthen the non-oil and gas sectors.
The government remains committed to promoting the tourism sector as one of the main drivers in diversifying the national economy in line with the goals of Brunei Vision 2035. This sector continues to enhance its competitiveness through various initiatives that support sustainable development and strengthen the country's position as a regional tourism destination.
Alhamdulillah, recently Negara Brunei Darussalam received prestigious recognition in the ASEAN Tourism Standard Awards 2025 held on January 20, 2025, in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 in Johor, Malaysia.
Achievements include recognition for The Empire Brunei and True Living SPA and Studio for their excellent services in the health and wellness tourism sector.
Additionally, Sumbiling Eco Village in the Temburong District received an award for their dedication to promoting sustainable and cultural tourism benefiting the local community.
Moreover, as a foundation of the digital economy, a flagship project under the Digital Economy Masterplan 2025 has been introduced, which is the establishment of National Digital Payment Network Sdn. Bhd. (NDPX). NDPX is a joint venture company between Darussalam Assets and local financial institutions, namely Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Baiduri Bank Berhad, and Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei, to establish a Digital Payment Hub operating a fast payment system. The Digital Payment Hub offers extensive benefits and advantages to various stakeholders. For users, it allows easy, fast, and secure fund transfers and payment transactions. For merchants, the system can reduce the cost of receiving digital payments and improve business management efficiency.
Therefore, this will also benefit traders, especially Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), to be more prepared to operate digitally through e-Commerce platforms. These benefits are expected to contribute to improved business performance and the economy as a whole. The hub is expected to be launched, Insya Allah, in March 2025.
The government is also actively promoting opportunities in the rapidly growing technology sector, especially new technologies based on the 4.0 industrial revolution and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Until the first quarter of 2025, discussions are ongoing with three innovative companies from the United States and Singapore that intend to explore the establishment of AI-driven data centers in Brunei Darussalam.
The government, through BEDB and in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, the Ministry of Health, AITI, and UNN is drafting an action plan for the use of AI, potentially increasing operational efficiency and productivity in Brunei Darussalam.
As part of the government's efforts to enhance the country's trade and logistics infrastructure by further improving operations and facilities at Muara Port, a Muara Port Master Plan has been prepared by Muara Port Company Sendirian Berhad, to realize port development, ensuring that sea transport networks are efficient, reliable, and able to attract new foreign investment opportunities.
One of the plans under this is to expand and refurbish the port, where Insya Allah, both the Container and Conventional Terminals are planned to be upgraded and expanded. The Muara Port Expansion Plan has begun with a Groundbreaking Ceremony held in August 2024, and the project is expected to be completed in 2027, Insya Allah.
This project includes several key components. First, the capacity of the Container Terminal will be increased from 220,000 TEU to 500,000 TEU per year through the construction of a new 250-meter quay for the Container Terminal and a new 88-meter quay for service vessels. This enhancement will strengthen the ability of Muara Port to meet increasing trade demands.
Second, this project also involves the development of a Port Trade Zone covering 3.62 hectares within the Container Terminal area. This zone will facilitate importation, production, repackaging, and export activities.
Furthermore, supporting the growth of the business sector and strengthening Muara Port as a key enabler in trade and logistics. To enhance the efficiency and smoothness of cargo clearance and goods flow, thereby boosting trade activities and driving economic growth in the region, several efforts have been implemented by the government through the Royal Customs and Excise Department, including:
Collaboration with Muara Port Company through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for the supply of scanning machines utilizing AI capable of displaying declaration information and detecting radioactive goods. This aligns with the government's desire to enhance the effectiveness of inspections of goods entering and leaving through Muara Port.
Through the ASEAN Authorised Economic Operator Mutual Recognition Arrangement (AAMRA) signed in March 2023, Brunei Darussalam is among the first three ASEAN countries to launch (AAMRA) with a Go-Live date on 1st August 2024. This step aims to expedite cargo clearance and goods flow in the ASEAN region.
Introducing 'Customs.BN', a mobile application designed to simplify public access to import and export procedures and facilitate online customs transactions such as goods declaration and tax payment. Its implementation has been done in phases starting 2nd September 2024 at all branches and control posts in Brunei Darussalam.
And introducing 'e-Cargo Transit Declaration', an online system for cross-border goods declaration by commercial companies at land control posts. The government will also continue efforts to foster stronger relationships with international partners to enhance access to new markets, investment opportunities, and the latest technologies to assist local industry sectors. Local companies are urged to seize opportunities from these economic cooperation outcomes by participating in regional and global value chains, thereby increasing their competitiveness in global markets.
Consequently, several recent developments concerning free trade agreements include the government ratifying the Protocol on the Accession of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), effective 15th December 2024.
With the United Kingdom as a CPTPP member, it is expected to open up more trade and investment opportunities between Brunei Darussalam and the United Kingdom. The CPTPP will provide market access to 600 million people, with a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately US$13.5 trillion.
The Ministry of Finance and Economy, as the agency leading CPTPP negotiations and existing trade agreements, will continue to actively conduct briefing sessions and meetings with stakeholders, particularly the private sector and local entrepreneurs, to further increase knowledge of the benefits available through these agreements. On 24th July 2024, the Ministry of Finance and Economy held a Stakeholders Engagement session in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada and the UK Department for Business and Trade. The session was attended by around 100 participants from the private sector and government agencies, aimed at providing a platform for disseminating and promoting the use of CPTPP along with networking opportunities for the companies and agencies present.
To improve tax service administration and facilitate the business environment in Brunei Darussalam, the Ministry of Finance and Economy has implemented several initiatives to modernize the filing and tax assessment process, including drafting and amending laws.
An additional model has been provided under the One Common Portal-System for Tax Administration and Revenue Services (OCP STARS) for filing amended tax returns starting from the 2025 assessment year. This facility is available online via OCP STARS to allow companies to voluntarily file amended tax returns.
Furthermore, to support the production of quality products and services, ensuring that the country's products are recognized, safe, and easily accepted in the global market, the Brunei Darussalam Standards and Accreditation Council has been activated from February 2024. The council's role is to address issues related to standards and accreditation policies, programs, and activities.
With the reactivation of this council, the role of the National Standards Center has also evolved, now known as the Brunei Darussalam Standards and Accreditation Center (PSABD). These improvements include accreditation areas considering the importance of ensuring that quality certificates issued throughout the Global Value Chain process for global trade meet internationally recognized standards.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, the third Budget focus is on the development of a dynamic and visionary human capital model. The government will continue to prioritize strengthening human capital development by continuing investment in innovative education and training systems at all levels with a focus on enhancing the skills and marketability of local children, particularly youth. This includes investments in educational infrastructure and aligning efforts with industry needs, economic developments, and professional bodies to ensure the workforce is equipped with the skills and experience needed to face current and future challenges.
To provide work experience for graduates, the Public Service Apprenticeship Scheme (SkiPPA) has been introduced, implemented by the Brunei JobCentre (PPB) in collaboration with the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (PPTM) and the Public Service Department (JPA).
This is a public service apprenticeship scheme that will offer a 12-month apprenticeship experience to bachelor's degree graduates and above who have minimal or no work experience and subsequently can fulfill critical needs identified by ministries. To date, 794 apprentices are participating in the program across government ministries and departments.
Additionally, several other initiatives have been handled by the Brunei JobCentre (PPB) and the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (PPTM) to support efforts to enhance local workforce skills and marketability, including the Clinical Supervisory Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Health for new graduates in Allied Health Professionals. Under the Apprenticeship Programme structure, this program aims to allow Allied Health Professional (AHP) who are conditionally registered to meet the criteria and obtain full registration status, subsequently becoming an AHP Practitioner. The first cohort of this program began in October 2024 and involved 18 participants.
The Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Scheme program, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, aims to enhance the qualifications and skills of local children to become more employable and marketable while supporting initiatives to reduce unemployment, especially among youth. Three intakes are currently ongoing, run by Private Higher Education Institutions where 193 students have been awarded government scholarships.
To date, 139 students are currently engaged in courses, while the 3rd intake that began in October 2024 involved 51 students who have been supported to undergo courses offered by both educational institutions.
Through the Study in Professional Institution (SPIN) in Accountancy program initiated in 2021, 54 individuals are currently undergoing the program to obtain ACCA (Association of Certified Chartered Accountants), CAT (Certified Accounting Technician), and FIA (Foundation in Accountancy) certifications.
Insya Allah, the Brunei JobCentre and PPTM will continue to actively implement existing workforce development programs and introduce several new programs in 2025 such as the new apprenticeship program, Tech Inspire, a result of collaboration with AITi through the Manpower Industry Steering Working Group under the ICT sector, expected to be implemented in the first quarter of 2025. Trainees in this program will undergo full-time training for 8 months, including 2 months of certification training for technical and soft skills, and 6 months of on-the-job training. For this first cohort, 30 local individuals are expected to undergo training for positions as IT technicians and network technicians.
The SkillsPlus program will continue in 2025 by introducing several new courses catering to industry needs, while continuous dissemination will be conducted through various platforms like mini recruitment drives, employability workshops, job fairs, Mukim Connect, and PPB Open Day.
Job seekers will have the opportunity to gain deeper insight into programs offered by PPB, engage directly with participating agencies, and enhance their knowledge about preparing for tests, interviews, and other aspects to improve their marketability.
In addition, Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) play a crucial role in strengthening human capital development and providing more employment opportunities for locals.
Since the establishment of Darussalam Assets Sendirian Berhad in 2012, there has been continuous growth in the number of local workforce under the Darussalam Assets Group. As of the second quarter of the Fiscal Year 2024/2025, the workforce under the Darussalam Assets Group has reached 8,337, with 86 percent being local.
Moreover, the involvement of expatriate workers in the Darussalam Assets Group also creates opportunities for knowledge transfer and industrial expertise to local workforce to meet international standards, where most roles filled by expatriate workers are specialized roles, such as those in the medical, energy, and education sectors as well as labor roles, with the goal that local talent will take over these positions when ready.
The government will also continue to collaborate with various industry sectors in the country to develop vocational programs or training to ensure that the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills aligned with job market requirements. The focus on education and skill development aims to create a knowledge-based economy that can attract more foreign direct investments.
Towards this goal, Hengyi Industries has provided scholarship programs in collaboration with Zhejiang Hengyi Petrochemical Company Limited and Lanzhou Petrochemical Polytechnic in the People's Republic of China alongside local educational institutions like Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Institute of Brunei Technical Education, and Politeknik Brunei.
To date, 941 students have received scholarships or participated in collaboration programs with these local educational institutions. Out of this number, 530 students have been offered employment at Hengyi Industries, while the remainder are still studying and will undergo work training before being offered employment.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua Dewan and Your Honourable Members, kaola take this opportunity here to urge youth in the country to seize the opportunity to enhance their skills through the various platforms provided by the government, private sector, and relevant agencies.
UTB has also introduced a new program, the Doctor of Business Administration, in January 2025. This program is aimed at fulfilling the needs of action research in the real business world through interventions that can be applied and consequently contribute to the business community and national economic development in line with Wawasan Brunei 2035 to diversify the economy, making Negara Brunei Darussalam a knowledge-based economy.
To develop a highly skilled human capital and drive innovation and national development in the digital era, higher education institutions in the country have introduced several programs and initiatives to ensure a future-ready workforce equipped with knowledge and skills in data science across various sectors, including:
Bachelor of Digital Science at Universiti Brunei Darussalam;
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computing with a Major in Software Development or Major in Data Analytics at Universiti Teknologi Brunei; and
Several Diploma programs under Politeknik Brunei through the School of Information and Communication Technology, including Diploma in Data Analytics.
To support the country's aspiration to develop a first-class education system and provide holistic education to produce educated, highly skilled, and successful citizens, an allocation of $221.1 million will be provided for the Education Sector under Recurrent Expenditure for the Financial Year 2025/2026. Included in this is the effort to improve the standard and achievement of education in the country, the government will continue to provide scholarships through the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. This initiative aims to enhance the employability and capacity development as well as the skills training of students by providing opportunities to pursue higher studies at world-renowned institutions; conduct research work under Public Higher Education Institutions; and furthermore, allocations will continue to be provided for Annual School Aid to alleviate the burden of parents and guardians who are less able to afford the schooling needs of students.
Towards the effort of providing a viable local workforce that aligns with current and future job and industry requirements, allocations totaling $19.21 million will be provided under the Brunei Job Centre, Prime Minister's Office for operating the SkiPPA programs, TVET Scheme, Skillsplus, SPIN in Accountancy, and Tradeskills.
In addition to the allocations kaola mentioned a while ago, the government also provides an allocation of $27.5 million under the Focus Project specifically to fund platforms or projects that support the national budget focus for the Financial Year 2025/2026.
That is what kaola shares about the country's progress and achievements as well as the priorities and budget focus provided allocations towards supporting the budget theme for the Financial Year 2025/2026, which is "Building A Prosperous Future Together."
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua of the House and Your Honourable Members. The budget presented earlier is designed to form a strong foundation to lead the country toward a brighter future. The provided allocation has one major objective, which is to ensure that all layers of citizens and residents in the country will consistently enjoy a better life.
In this regard, the government will continue to make strategic investments in several key sectors to stimulate economic growth with a focus on the Non-Oil and Gas sector and to create job opportunities for local children as well as enhance the country's competitiveness on a global scale.
However, the aspirations to be achieved through this budget do not depend solely on one party but depend on the concerted efforts and cooperation from all parties, whether from the government, the private sector, or the public. Every individual has a role in shaping the direction of this country.
Therefore, let us intensify our efforts, unite, and instill a hopeful spirit in jointly making this beloved country a more excellent country for the current and future generations. The future does not belong to us alone, but to the upcoming generations. The development efforts we make now are a legacy they will enjoy.
Therefore, this is where kaola reminds that it is very important for the current generation to ensure that the country we leave to the future generations is a developed, prosperous, high-quality livelihood country with a dynamic and resilient economy as envisioned under Wawasan Brunei 2035.
The children and youth of today will become the country's leaders in the future and we hope they will live pursuing their noble dreams without worry. Let us continue to strive to ensure that the next generation has opportunities as we feel now and better ones in the future. Let us be examples to be proud of and become an inspiration for the future.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Before kaola concludes this presentation, let us together pray that our country will continue to progress, be safe, and prosperous under the leadership of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, and with the permission of Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala always become a Blessed Nation under the protection of Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala.
(Reads a verse of the Quran). Aamiin Ya Rabbal Alamiin.
Kaola proposes that the Bill presented before us be supported to be made a State Supply Law issued from the "Consolidated Fund for specific purposes" throughout the Financial Year 2025/2026.
That is all. Wabillahi taufik walhidayah Wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members, Alhamdulillah, we have heard the budget statement that has been presented, containing the plans and direction of the National Budget for the Financial Year 2025/2026.
I would now like to invite a member to support this Bill.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, kaola fully support it. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Thank you, Yang Berhormat. The Bill has received support from Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II. Please proceed with the next order.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis
Motion Number 2, the Development Fund Resolution Motion to be proposed by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and may you be well. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, kaola would like to propose the Motion in my name on the Order of Business which reads: "This Council, in accordance with Section 4(2) of the Development Fund Act Chapter 136, resolves that expenditure amounting to $480,000,000 be authorized, allocated, and requested from the Development Fund for specific purposes in the 2025/2026 Development Budget Estimate."
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Honourable Members. Firstly, kaola wishes to express deep gratitude for the grace of the titahs of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Assembly for the year 1446 Hijra, 2025 CE, among others, to strengthen efforts to diversify the economy including encouraging more new economic activities such as tourism, agriculture, health, security, public services, and new industries that will also have positive spillover effects for local businesses and further drive the country's economic growth.
In accordance with the advisory titahs of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam in jointly moving towards Brunei Vision 2035, the government will continue to cooperate on a Whole of Government basis to ensure that RKN projects will proceed smoothly and perfectly according to the timelines set to achieve economic progress and diversification with the provision of infrastructure and basic facilities to support economic growth, the growth of industries and new economic sectors, in addition to empowering human resource capabilities for the welfare and well-being of the nation.
As kaola shared during the 20th Legislative Assembly for the year 1445 Hijra, 2024 CE, the total cost of the 12th RKN plan over the five-year period from 2024 to 2029 is BND4 billion for 305 projects based on the Manpower Blueprint and Economy Blueprint in line with the goals outlined in Brunei Vision 2035.
The provision of this allocation serves as evidence and illustrates the government's strong support for the country's development agenda efforts and, God willing, will have a positive impact on national development and nurture inclusive economic growth.
Alhamdulillah, as of 26 February 2025, $126,213,787 or 25.24% of the $500 million allocated for the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 has been spent. Meanwhile, 22 projects have been completed, and 65 projects are in progress, while 172 projects are still in the initial stages where 48 of them, a total of 83 projects, are still in the planning of the relevant ministries.
The 22 completed projects support certain clusters as follows to strengthen access to education, rebuild Sultan Hassan Secondary School Bangar, Temburong, and upgrade the multipurpose hall, hostel kitchen, and teacher rooms at Hassanal Bolkiah Boys' Secondary Arabic School, the Sixth Form Center for Arabic schools.
To strengthen the propagation of Islam, two (2) mosques have been completed, namely the new mosque construction RPN Kampung Meragang and the mosque RPN Kampung Mengkubau. The provision of housing with 1,500 units in National Housing Kampung Lugu Phase 2 has been completed and begun to be occupied by recipients.
To enhance public service quality, completed projects include upgrading Phase 2 of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, improving facility usage, and a new Welfare Home Complex building, enhancing the security and living conditions for the residents.
To strengthen environmental sustainability, projects include replanting degraded forest areas, improving the efficiency of transportation systems with the completion of three (3) projects, replacing the Instrument Landing System and Doppler VHM Omnidirectional Range and Distance Measuring Equipment, replacing the Airport Automatic Weather Observation System, and enhancing security inspection equipment and systems at Brunei International Airport.
To bolster national security, a detention and rehabilitation center for national security and to enhance food security, building additional irrigation schemes for paddy planting areas across districts. To advance the tourism industry, slope protection and road upgrading at Kem Batang Duri Temburong, Outboard Bound Brunei Darussalam. For industrial development, ornamental and flowering plant output enhancement programs to generate export markets.
To address natural disaster risks, the coastal control project along Kampung Danau beach has been completed to reduce beach erosion affecting land plots and private homes as well as government assets. Strengthening ICT infrastructure, the government data center and Infrastructure Cloud have been completed to accommodate application and online service needs of ministries and government departments.
To upgrade and increase the contribution rate of sewer systems and maintain river water quality, several sewer projects have been completed in Kampung Menglait, Kampung Batu Bersurat, and Pengkalan Gadong to expand centralized sewer systems in urban areas including commercial and surrounding areas.
In Kampung Lumut, reducing the number of pipe blockage incidents and back flowing from the sewer system, and upgrading sewer systems in the municipalities of Kuala Belait and Seria. Electricity, strengthening the 11KB distribution network system in the Jalan Kebangsaan diplomatic area and one other project under consideration.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. The first-year expenditure is usually still low. Among other reasons, the ministries owning projects will first ensure that project implementation strategies are orderly and perfect according to the existing government regulations and will add value, achieve planned outcomes with prudent and optimal expenditure.
Therefore, with the allocated funding for the Fiscal Year 2025/2026, it is hoped to accelerate and drive the implementation of RKN projects.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. The main focuses of the RKN 12 allocation include, among others, first, supporting the socio-economic stability of the nation; second, ensuring the welfare of the people and residents of Negara Brunei Darussalam is maintained; third, enhancing skills and creating new job or economic opportunities; and fourth, advancing digital technology development to increase productivity and government service efficiency.
The allocation of $480 million has already been proposed and agreed with all ministries during the National Budget Committee Meeting. This provision has also been categorized according to clusters in a clearer and more objective manner, where allocations are based on the direction and achievements desired in each of the clusters as determined, aiming to support the 3 main budget priorities of the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 as follows:
First, improving public welfare and productivity, with $307 million allocated for the following clusters. Strengthening national security, enhancing housing readiness. Among the housing projects being implemented are National Housing Kampung Tanah Jambu Phase 7, National Housing Kampung Rimba, and National Housing Kampung Salambigar.
With the provision of affordable housing, it will enhance the welfare and quality of life of the people. Strengthening transportation system efficiency, among the projects funded is the provision of infrastructure facilities and public transportation systems. Meanwhile, ongoing projects include rehabilitating the runway of Brunei International Airport Phase 2 and Primary Surveillance Radar.
The provision for this cluster will facilitate public movement and logistics operations for enterprises from various economic sectors. Strengthening food security, among the ongoing projects is a high-tech vegetable production enhancement program to generate Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The livestock industry development plan to generate production of the Shrimp Farming Industry Phase 4, advancing and opening sites for aquaculture industry.
Strengthening ICT infrastructure, among the ongoing projects are the MOD Integrated Platform, Bruhims 2.0 System, which will enhance public service productivity and service delivery efficiency to the public. Enhancing public service quality, the projects provided funding include the construction of government buildings that are friendly for people with special needs. Additionally, sports facilities are provided funding, among others, to upgrade facilities at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium Complex and Mumong Sports Complex, Kuala Belait.
Addressing climate change, including to fund green building projects. Strengthening the propagation of Islam, among the ongoing projects is the construction of a new mosque RPN Kampung Rimba, new mosque RPN Kampung Lumut, and new mosque RPN Kampung Lugu. These projects will provide comfort for worship and enhance religious activities for the people and residents living in those areas.
Providing infrastructure for good health to increase public access to health facilities. Strengthening environmental sustainability, addressing risks to face natural disasters, among the ongoing projects is the construction of retention ponds in Tutong River Catchment and upgrading main rivers and tributaries to reduce flood occurrences. Upgrading and increasing the contribution rate of sewer systems and maintaining river water quality.
Science, technology, and innovation research and master plan provision such as the Sanitation and Sewerage Master Plan for Negara Brunei Darussalam, Brunei and Muara District Plan.
Second, fostering sustainable economic diversity with BND131 million allocated for the following clusters; providing clean water supply, among the ongoing projects is:
Replacing old main pipes for all districts; building new raw water pumping station Badas and installing raw water pipes from Badas to SPARK areas;
Upgrading Agis-Agis Treatment Plant, Belait District;
Enhancing water treatment plants, construction of Bukit Barun Water Treatment Plant Phase 8. With access to this water supply, it will support industry needs and agricultural sites, including basic water infrastructure availability, to attract investment opportunities to Negara Brunei Darussalam;
Strengthening electro-supply. This strengthening will provide electricity needs to industries that will begin operations in the country;
Public facilities for land transport such as overhauling roads, flyovers, and bridges connecting industrial sites, including constructing a flyover at Muara-Tutong highway intersection in Tanjung Kajar industrial area;
Advancing the tourism industry, among the projects allocated funding, is strengthening tourism products, upgrading Pulau Selirong Park Recreational Forest, upgrading Kampong Ayer’s Cultural and Tourism Gallery, establishing a national library and gallery at Dewan Majlis and additional buildings at the Royal Regalia Museum.
With these projects, it is expected to diversify tourism attractions in the country and consequently increase spillover impact to other economic activities.
Industrial development among the ongoing projects includes Pulau Muara Besar and the construction of inspection and control stations for forest production increasing productivity in the timber industry. Creative industries are also allocated funding to support the creative cultural hub and community library to strengthen the cultural and artistic infrastructure of the country.
With the development of these projects, it is hoped to generate employment opportunities and encourage reading culture among citizens. Strengthening quality assurance and accreditation centers, projects under this cluster include the Fish Genetic Development and Selective Breeding Program to increase aquaculture industry productivity for expanding the nation's export sector.
Third, developing dynamic and visionary human capital. A total of BND31 million has been allocated for the following clusters:
Strengthening access to education facilities. Among the ongoing projects are UTB Phase 4, School of Applied Sciences and Mathematics and Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA), which will increase student intake capacity to these universities and provide a more comfortable and conducive learning environment;
Enhancing human resources development with reconstruction works at the Beribi Industrial Area’s cooperative building, preparing the design for a permanent JobCentre Brunei building.
Additionally, as preparation for facing global climate change challenges, Negara Brunei Darussalam continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development. The planned cost for Green Building Projects is BND51.6 million, including for funding the installation of Solar Photovoltaics Panels on 38 government building roofs, currently in the early stages of establishing implementation strategies.
This initiative reflects the country's determination to achieve the Brunei Vision 2035 goals and commitment to the Sustainable Development Goal, Goal 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities and Goal 13 Climate Action and the Paris Agreement.
The Green Building Project is not only intended to help reduce carbon emissions but also generate energy savings and create new economic opportunities. The Private Sector is expected to play a crucial role by supplying eco-friendly building materials, implementing green technology, and participating in sustainable construction projects. This directly opens up more job opportunities in the green sector, thereby propelling the national economy toward sustainability.
In this regard, a project team has been established to oversee green concept projects and effectively control project costs, optimizing national expenditures to ensure resources are fully utilized and aligned with national sustainability goals.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. As we enter the second year of the Twelfth National Development Plan (RKN12), with God's Will, actions on a Whole of Government and Whole of Nation approach will be intensified, including alignment and coordination between ministries to ensure the smooth and perfect implementation of RKN projects to achieve the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, before kaola concludes the introduction of the Twelfth National Development Plan allocations presentation for the Fiscal Year 2025/2026, kaola is pleased to take this opportunity to wish everyone a blessed Ramadan, and may our worship throughout this blessed month be accepted by Allah the Almighty as well.
Thus, Wabbilahi taufik walhidayah, Wassalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members, is there a Member who wishes to support this Motion?
Yang Berhormat Menteri Kesihatan
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you, and Allah's mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, kaola fully supports the proposed Motion. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. The Motion for the Development Fund has received support from Yang Berhormat Menteri Kesihatan. To provide an opportunity for all Your Honourable Members to review and prepare for the debate on the Supply Bill (2025) 2025/2026 and the Development Fund Motion, I wish to adjourn this session.
Therefore, the session is adjourned until Tuesday, 4 March 2025, as usual, starting from 9.30 in the morning.
I also take this opportunity to wish everyone, all Your Honourable Members and attendees, a blessed fasting period. May this blessed month of Ramadan bring blessings to all of us, and we can conduct our affairs perfectly and orderly.
That is all, and may Allah grant guidance and success, Peace be upon you, and Allah's mercy and blessings.
[The Meeting is adjourned]
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