DAY 1 AFTERNOON
đź“– Reading time: 63 minutes
đź“Š Word count: 12,723 words
4TH AUG 2025 AFTERNOON​
(The Council Meeting resumes at 2.30 PM)
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Now the Council Meeting will proceed to the next agenda.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
The Vision Brunei 2035 motion which will be proposed by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Mejar Jeneral (Bersara) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Defence II.
Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Good afternoon and greetings of peace. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim (prayer recited).
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, blessed by Allah whom peramba/kaola/I respect.
First and foremost, allow peramba/kaola/I to express profound gratitude and thanks to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the opportunity given to kaola to propose in this esteemed chamber the Motion of Brunei Vision 2035 as follows: Adhering to the decree of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, that the journey towards Brunei Vision 2035 necessitates cooperation, innovation, and strong determination from all parties. This chamber needs to consider proposals and ideas presented while taking into account emerging global issues for action by relevant stakeholders accordingly.
Recognizing that Brunei Vision 2035 was issued by the Long Term Development Planning Body in 2004 to plan the country's development for the next 30 years. Only 10 years remain to realize Brunei Vision 2035.
Noting that efforts to strengthen strategic implementation and action plans towards achieving the primary goals of the vision are conducted through the Manpower Blueprint for the First Goal, led by the Ministry of Education and the Manpower and Employment Planning Council, MPTMP; Social Blueprint for the Second Goal, led by the Prime Minister’s Department and the National Social Issues Council, MKIS; and Economic Blueprint for the Third Goal, led by the Ministry of Finance and Economy.
Understanding that the world's global condition is unpredictable and our country is not exempt from facing global impacts such as geopolitical conflicts and uncertain economic situations. These impacts challenge the implementation of Brunei Vision.
In ensuring that Negara Brunei Darussalam will realize Brunei Vision 2035, this Council proposes that integrated action and support be initiated with a nationwide approach to realize the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, allow kaola to continue providing comments on the Motion of Brunei Vision 2035, specifically regarding the role of the Prime Minister’s Department in supporting the implementation and achievement of Brunei Vision 2035 goals.
Since its launch in 2007, Brunei Vision 2035 has served as the main reference framework for the country in formulating policies and drafting the Long Term Development Plan. Brunei Vision 2035 establishes three main goals:
First, an Educated and Highly Skilled People and Success;
Second, a High Quality of Life for the People; and
Third, a Dynamic and Resilient Economy.
These three goals are complementary and essential in building the foundation of an inclusive, advanced, and resilient nation. The success of Brunei Vision 2035 is a collective responsibility and requires the active participation of all societal layers and stakeholders, not relying entirely on the government. This is in line with the emphasis on the whole of government and whole of nation approaches that mutually support achieving the same goals.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. 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's concern and dedication to the success of Brunei Vision 2035 are consistently expressed through his royal decrees, guidance, and support in strengthening the nation's development policies. His focus remains centered on the main pillars of Brunei Vision 2035, namely education, quality of life, and economic development, which reflect his commitment to ensuring the nation progresses in tandem with global changes.
However, the global landscape today is increasingly challenging. Issues of climate change, the emergence of new technologies, workforce transformation, and geopolitical and geo-economic uncertainties require more strategic, swift, and forward-looking policy approaches. In facing these challenges, the Malay Islamic Monarchy, MIB philosophy remains the main foundation for national development, serving not only as a national identity but also as a guide in shaping holistic and balanced development directions between physical advancement and economic and spiritual development.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Alhamdulilah, the implementation of government policies has led to significant progress toward achieving the three main goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
For the first goal of Brunei Vision, which is an Educated, Highly Skilled, and Successful People, based on the Programme for International Student Assessment, PISA 2022 report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, OECD, the country's score in PISA 2022 recorded improvements compared with the PISA 2018 assessment, with a score of 442 for Mathematics, an increase of 12 points, a score of 429 for reading, an increase of 21 points, and a score of 446 for Science, an increase of 15 points.
This achievement places Negara Brunei Darussalam among the top three in Southeast Asia, not only showing an increase in student capabilities in basic fields such as Mathematics and Science but also reflecting the continuous efforts to strengthen the national education system.
For the second goal, which is a High Quality of Life for the People, the country is ranked 60th out of 193 countries and is included in the category of countries with very high human development according to the Human Development Index, HDI report released by the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, in 2025, which is global recognition of the country's continuous efforts to enhance the well-being of the people.
For the third goal, which is a Dynamic and Resilient Economy, the Gross Domestic Product per capita keeps the country at the seventh-highest position among 194 countries based on the World Economic Outlook report issued by the International Monetary Fund, IMF, for April 2025.
This achievement reflects the country's ability to maintain economic stability despite facing global challenges due to prudent fiscal policies, sustainable management of natural resources, and strategic steps in diversifying the national economy, specifically through the non-oil and gas sector.
Moreover, continuous efforts in attracting Foreign Direct Investment, FDI, strengthening the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, PMKS Sector, and empowering digital transformation also play a crucial role in strengthening the country's economic foundation.
To support the implementation of Brunei Vision 2035, the government has introduced three blueprints: the Manpower Blueprint, Social Blueprint, and Economic Blueprint as national strategic guidelines that coordinate the country's development direction. These three blueprints are designed to ensure comprehensive and integrated policy planning and implementation through the whole of government and whole of nation approaches to fulfill the country's development interests and the well-being of the people and residents comprehensively.
This effort reflects the government's continuous commitment to strengthening the well-being of the people, enhancing the quality of life toward a prosperous, peaceful, and resilient nation for all. In efforts to ensure sustainable human resource development, responsive, and competitive, various initiatives have been moved to achieve the First Goal of Brunei Vision 2035, which is nurturing people who are educated, highly skilled, and successful.
In line with this goal, the Manpower Blueprint led by the Ministry of Education and the Manpower and Employment Planning Council was issued in 2024. This strategic document focuses on four main aspirations designed to strengthen local workforce capabilities to ensure continuous alignment between education development and industry needs to support the sustainable and inclusive economic growth of the nation, which are:
The first aspiration is dynamic education and training that emphasizes a diverse, inclusive, and adaptive national education and training system to nurture people who are knowledgeable, highly skilled, and ethical;
The second aspiration is a future-ready people. It emphasizes the development of an innovative, productive, and responsible population while fostering lifelong learning to equip them with a growth mindset and resilience;
The third aspiration is effective human capital development focusing on a holistic and coherent human capital development ecosystem to provide the national human resource needs for human capital development towards a proactive and competent workforce; and
The fourth aspiration is facilitating support systems and structures, which are essential elements for the success of the preceding three aspirations. This encompasses high-quality infrastructure and effective governance through a whole-of-nation approach to achieving the aspirations of human resources, human capital development to drive a nation's development.
Furthermore, in coordinating national social development policies and programs to drive the achievement of the second goal, Brunei Vision 2035, which is a high quality of life for the people, the Social Blueprint led by the Prime Minister's Department and the National Social Issues Council, MKIS under the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports was launched this year focusing on four main aspirations which are:
The first aspiration is self-reliant, resilient, and future-ready people, meaning a society that is self-sufficient in facing various future challenges by cultivating the attitude of self-reliance to enhance social mobility capability and contribute to societal and national progress.
The second aspiration is empowering loving, strong, and resilient families emphasizing the importance of the family institution as the most basic unit in playing a role to provide a foundation for human capital development to drive a nation's development;
The third aspiration is building a caring, inclusive, and equitable society, meaning meeting community needs inclusively to ensure justice and equity towards assured welfare and safety by making society the foundation of sustainable social development; and
The fourth aspiration is empowering social development through a whole-of-nation approach focusing on efforts to enhance cooperation and stakeholder engagement through a whole-of-nation approach to ensure effective governance towards excellence in service delivery.
To realize the third goal of Brunei Vision 2035, a dynamic and resilient economy, the Economic Blueprint was launched by the Ministry of Finance and Economy in 2021 to layout sustainable and resilient long-term economic growth strategies in facing global uncertainties by establishing six main aspirations which are:
The first aspiration, productive and vibrant businesses focusing on businesses to compete, grow, and be resilient by exploring new markets and opportunities and leveraging technology and innovation by all economic sectors, especially the five priority sectors, downstream oil and gas, food, tourism, services, and ICT;
The second aspiration is a skilled, adaptive, and innovative people focusing on creating a future-ready workforce required to meet industry needs and promote entrepreneurial development;
The third aspiration is an open and globally connected economy by expanding market access and diverse economic partnerships to strengthen international relations through business opportunities;
The fourth aspiration is environmental sustainability aimed at assisting in preserving the country's green ecosystem in line with the nation's commitment as the heart of Borneo, along with comprehensive international commitments through reducing carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions;
The fifth aspiration is high-quality and competitive economic infrastructure focusing on the availability of economic infrastructure with the capacity to support and expand national businesses; and
The sixth aspiration is good governance and public service excellence focusing on ensuring a conducive business environment through transparent, efficient governance and public service under clear regulations.
These three blueprints reflect the government's determination in restructuring the national development strategies to be more responsive, inclusive, and high impact to ensure the Brunei Vision 2035 can be achieved amidst an increasingly challenging global atmosphere.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. The Prime Minister’s Department fully supports the efforts to realize national goals through the whole of government and whole of nation approaches. Among which is strengthening strategic governance through the drafting of evidence-based long-term development policies that have tangible and lasting impacts on the people and nation, including providing a comprehensive policy impact assessment framework and systematic and transparent progress reporting mechanisms with clear key performance indicators, KPIs, to monitor the effectiveness and achievement of policy goals.
Secondly, enhancing the efficiency of public services through institutional modernization and transformation plans that focus on institutional capacity and human capital development, innovation in delivery, and strengthening accountability and results to improve the quality of public service achievements, the government continues to deliver quality services that are citizen-centric and data-driven while optimizing digital technology utilization.
One initiative towards this is the E-Citizen Feedback System, EPP, enabling the public to directly provide feedback on government services. The data collected will be a critical basis for continuous improvements while opening opportunities for adopting technology such as Artificial Intelligence, AI, and Big Data to bolster the efficiency and responsiveness of the Public Service System.
Furthermore, adopting a comprehensive and proactive approach in preserving national security and stability for the welfare of all layers of the people, the government prioritizes the principle of rule of law and nurturing a law-abiding society that is informed and compliant with enforced regulations.
Accordingly, the Prime Minister’s Department supports initiatives such as the Amendment of Workplace Safety and Health Regulations, Personal Data Protection Order 2025, and the Waspada.bn awareness campaign. Enforcement efforts are also strengthened through the implementation of the Social Blueprint with an emphasis on enforcement prevention and preparedness in line with Strategic Goal 6 under Aspiration 4.
Moreover, prioritizing outcomes that focus on national interest and public welfare through policy implementation that is not just output-oriented but leads to outcomes that bring positive and lasting changes in quality of life, social well-being, and national competitiveness regionally and globally, including ensuring every development initiative directly benefits the people in terms of decent work opportunities, education, health, and overall community well-being.
Supporting sustainable national concerns includes promoting renewable energy use, increasing energy efficiency in the public and private sectors, and providing national energy policies and directions that support economic diversification agendas in the downstream Oil and Gas sector, sustainability, and long-term energy security. Negara Brunei Darussalam has maintained a high electrification rate at 99.99 percent this year. Alhamdulillah, this rate was achieved through the extension of the electricity network to Mukim Sukang and the hinterlands in the Belait District, fulfilling the daily needs of the residents in those mukims.
Additionally, ongoing efforts to sustain the upstream Oil and Gas sector continue to be intensified. Empowering cross-sector collaboration through policy coordination platforms and inclusive dialogues with the private sector, NGOs, community, and academic institutions to generate more holistic, high-impact, and responsive policies to the people's needs and to develop comprehensive national data capability through interagency cooperation to support the formulation of accurate policies based on verified and up-to-date information in line with Brunei Vision 2035 needs and the Sustainable Development Goals, SDG. The Prime Minister's Department also facilitates conducive policies for strategic investments, human capital development including the implementation of the Employment Order (Minimum Wage), Amendment 2025, and private sector innovation.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, the success of Brunei Vision 2035 not only depends on meticulous planning but also on the effective implementation and collective spirit of the entire populace and nation.
Therefore, peramba/ kaola/ I urge that the debate on this motion be enriched with constructive and forward-thinking views to ensure that the policies crafted genuinely have a significant and long-lasting impact on the people and nation. Peramba/ kaola/ I end with full hope and trust in Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala and the wise leadership blessing of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, that all efforts implemented, including by the Prime Minister's Department and its departments, will continue to directly contribute to the successful implementation of Brunei Vision 2035 and ultimately to the prosperity and well-being of Negara Brunei Darussalam grounded in the Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy that we all cherish.
That is all Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua that kaola can deliver.
Therefore, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Di-Pertua Majlis Mesyuarat Negara​
Your Honourable Members, a motion has been proposed by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II.
I invite an Honourable Member to propose this motion.
Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim, Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, kaola fully support the proposed motion. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Di-Pertua Majlis Mesyuarat Negara​
Your Honourable Members, the motion brought by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II has been supported by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II.
Now, I would like to open this motion for debate and I wish to remind that each member is given 15 minutes for each Honourable Member to make their respective speeches.
I begin by inviting Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof. Please proceed.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof​
In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, (prayer recited) and peace be upon you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, Your Honourable Members, with utmost respect and reverence, kaola extend the highest appreciation and thanks to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the opportunity to fully support the Brunei Vision 2035 motion proposed by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II.
Kaola are also pleased to convey congratulations and the highest appreciation to the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II for such a comprehensive introduction and explanation as outlined in the three blueprint books towards realizing Brunei Vision 2035.
As we already know, Brunei Vision 2035 is a pure aspiration vehicle, commitment, and systematic strategic vision, looking far ahead for Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to establish a greatly influential national resilience to guarantee the advancement, welfare, and prosperity of the country.
On this occasion, kaola would like to quote the very important command of His Majesty for us all to ponder and take lessons from related to the debate on the Brunei Vision 2035 Motion.
Firstly, with the intention of this vision being as a roadmap for the country's future, guiding more systematic planning towards a country with well-educated and highly skilled, successful, quality citizens and a dynamic, resilient economy;
Secondly, the success in realizing Brunei Vision 2035 demands meticulous development planning, strong coordination and alignment as well as high commitment from or to all parties which also depend on efficient implementation as a basis for sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development; and
Thirdly, it is inappropriate to let this vision remain as mere intellectual rhetoric that is just beautiful in mention but we must implement it with full commitment and earnestness.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. In kaola's opinion, the challenges faced in the next 10 years towards 2035.
How is the role and collective commitment, not only of all of us present in this esteemed Council, but also extending beyond to all stakeholders, particularly the public service, private sector, non-governmental organizations, and all layers of citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam in upholding and high respect for His Majesty’s command towards realizing Brunei Vision 2035.
In supporting and endorsing all three blueprints, Alhamdulillah, kaola have personally examined and delved into the respective documents where from my examination, should kaola be allowed, I would like to highlight several issues as a proliferation of ideas and added value for proper attention and consideration in efforts to enhance further the framework of the three blueprints.
Firstly, regarding the Manpower Blueprint. Some challenges and issues identified include planning for 6,000 to 7,000 graduates each year. Based on statistics from the Brunei Employment Centre, there were 13,710 active job seekers as of 30th June 2025. Meanwhile, the youth unemployment rate is 16.8 percent. Among these, 5,033 are categorized as job seekers who are graduates from Higher Education Institutions and hold at least a Bachelor’s Degree.
This indicates a gap between the education system and the actual needs of the industry, including programs and skills mismatches. The question and challenge are, has a comprehensive audit of the education system and study programs been conducted to align with the development and industry needs in this country, not only at present but also extending to the future, in an effort to address this issue towards more optimistic employability?
It is suggested that the relevant parties implement monitoring of graduate career matching platforms to further strengthen more systematic planning while identifying various appropriate skills fields in study programs and apprenticeship training, for example, the SkiPPA or i-Ready Program should be aligned with industry needs in specific fields. Those who meet the criteria in terms of expertise and exemplary service performance may be offered permanent employment.
Insha Allah, such practices can address brain drain and simultaneously optimize talented professionals while making human capital more responsive by establishing value-added upskilling and reskilling programs that lead to result-oriented outcomes.
While addressing the issue of dropout students in the formal education system, referring to the Manpower Blueprint, 3,849 people in 2021 are categorized as unemployed, i.e., not in employment, education, or training. These individuals are categorized as potentially unproductive, at risk of becoming a liability and potentially resulting in an intergenerational poverty chain.
To handle this issue, it would be beneficial to create a variety of alternative programs such as work-based learning methods provided by relevant stakeholders, collaborating between the public sector, especially educational institutions, the private industry, and non-governmental organizations, aiming for wider employment marketability.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Regarding social issues, on the Social Blueprint. What are the approach efforts in enhancing the implementation methodology of all three blueprints, especially this Social Blueprint towards assimilating and internalizing the Maqasid Al-Shariah as the foundation for statistical blueprint compilation and policy direction between administrations?
Furthermore, in measuring the level of socio-economic standards of living of the people and residents in this country, are assessments or indicators used in accordance with international best practice guidelines such as the Gini coefficient to measure the income and wealth distribution gap of the country? Similarly, the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index method from the United Nations Development Programme, which assesses and measures the threshold or level of individual poverty. The purpose is to enhance and update further policy formulation and framework plans as well as strategic and systematic programs, alongside stringent monitoring to address issues of poverty and vulnerable groups.
Although various forms of aid channels through the National Welfare Scheme, SKN or zakat distribution through the Department of Zakat, Wakaf and Baitulmal Affairs, dependence on government assistance still records 7,375 individuals out of 10,041 aid recipients as of April 2024, categorized as able-bodied and able to work. The challenge is, how are more effective procedures besides the currently available programs to assist in liberating these groups from the poverty trap?
Apart from following comprehensive programs, they should also be enhanced with the spirit of striving and diligence, and more importantly, in kaola's opinion, the internalization of religious and spiritual values to successfully generate income sources thus transitioning to a mindset and self-reliant attitude.
This is in accordance with Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala's verse in Surah Ar-Ra'd, Ayat 11, which translates: "Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves." Moreover, inshaa Allah, not only will they become zakat recipients but may also become a muzakki, i.e., zakat giver, in line with the teachings and lessons from the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, narrated by Imam Al-Bukhari: "The hand that gives is better than the hand that receives."
The success of such a program, inshaa Allah, serves as an example and encouragement to aid and zakat recipients, transforming them into productive members of society and assets rather than liabilities of the state. The Department of Zakat, Wakaf, and Baitulmal Affairs must also highlight its role significantly towards jointly achieving Brunei Vision 2035. This aligns with the role and responsibility of JUZWAB in orderly and efficient zakat management to empower programs for the asnaf group. Additionally, developing wakaf assets, addressing the welfare of the target groups, strengthening socio-economic levels, and potentially, inshaa Allah, contributing to fortifying the country's fiscal position.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Regarding the Economic Blueprint, kaola view that any policy and regulation before being introduced should ideally involve thorough research and analysis while involving relevant stakeholders to at least minimize potential risks that may adversely impact the country's socio-economic development, possibly becoming an obstacle or contrary to policies, such as attracting foreign investors, ease of doing business, and a more conducive and friendly business environment and ecosystem in the country.
Based on the Investment Report 2024, the performance of the country's FDI fell from US dollars 03 in 2022 to 01 billion dollars in 2023, considered the lowest in ASEAN. Recognizing the importance of FDI as an economic driver and generating spin-offs and multiplier effects to promote more resilient economic activity development.
The country must act aggressively and take more strategic, innovative, competitive steps to attract more investors to the country, especially those of high quality and technology, providing a very significant impact. This, among others, includes improving, updating, and expanding more conducive, synergistic approach methods in aspects such as;
Firstly, all relevant agencies must act as facilitators, enhancing efficiency and speeding up application processing;
Secondly, improving and updating overlapping processes towards a more streamlined effort or ideally creating a one-stop-agency for pruning and expediting applications;
Thirdly, expanding facilities and further enhancing the quality and efficiency of digital infrastructure, utilities, connectivity, and accessibility to more conducive to industry needs;
Fourthly, providing human resources in various skills and high technology aligned with the highest educational system according to international standards to meet industry needs; and
Fifthly, readiness to meet international standards and requirements to enable exporting local products abroad.
In kaola's opinion, the factors mentioned earlier are also closely related to adhering to and honoring as an attraction to more small and medium enterprises, both in starting and further developing business activities in this country in line with the ease of doing business, business environment, and eco-friendly conditions.
This also includes ways to enhance and update financial facilities, specifically SMEs which are still limited, particularly concerning high-interest rates and collateral issues. Investment in research and development needs to be reviewed and studied for expansion and enhancement, as it also serves as the main artery in driving and strengthening the socio-economic dynamics of a country.
Among its objectives and perceived to increase the use over high technology applications such as digital and artificial intelligence as value-added to boost productivity and produce quality, creative, innovative, and large-scale products.
Creating various stream industries while expanding the scope of industrial and economic activities. Enhancing a knowledge-based economy and level of development in various expertise and skills. Generating more employment opportunities across diverse skills.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Kaola opine that the principles, plans of action framework, and programs outlined in the three blueprints encompass various aspects for implementation towards realizing Brunei Vision 2035.
However, from kaola's analysis, it may also be prudent to examine and pay attention to elements that can be considered as value-added in enhancing and updating to further empower a monitoring and implementation framework that is more transparent and systematic.
Firstly, there’s a need for a holistic implementation action plan, including setting a milestone time frame. Allow kaola to continue for a little longer, Pehin, if Pehin permits. (Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua nods in agreement to proceed). Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pehin.
Secondly, providing more transparent key performance indicators to be used as benchmarks, measurable targets in evaluating the achievement level across all sectors;
Thirdly, reviewing and identifying systematically analyzing mid-term reviews or periodical reports according to the set time frame. This allows for policy and action plan initiative improvement while resolving problem-solving solutions ensures the target's achievement.
Finally, once again kaola are pleased to quote His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's command to be used as guidance: "...we need strong institutions, effective governance, and comprehensive data usage as a foundation for planning and strategic decision-making in achieving the Brunei Vision 2035 goals."
In conclusion, in upholding the command of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, what is paramount, what is paramount in kaola’s opinion, is the role of all of us, every layer of the people and residents in Negara Brunei Darussalam, particularly relevant stakeholders must cooperate and strive towards transforming to work harder, take more responsibility with commendable and praiseworthy deeds, integrity and transparency, dedication, closely cooperating and cohesively within the tasks entrusted in a brotherhood manner under a whole-of-nation approach based on Malay Islamic Monarchy in supporting and inshaa Allah realizing Brunei Vision 2035. Amin Amin Ya Rabbal Alamin.
Therefore, with Allah's guidance and blessings, wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
Once again, kaola express gratitude to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for granting an extension of time to kaola. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim (prayer recited).
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. We express our gratitude to Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala for allowing us to be present in this esteemed hall, and kaola expresses our deepest thanks for the opportunity given to jointly discuss the Motion brought by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II regarding Wawasan Brunei 2035. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Recalling the speech of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, which states that the journey towards Wawasan Brunei 2035 requires cooperation, innovation, and high spirit, let us internalize this mandate with full commitment. Indeed, the speech reflects His Majesty’s forward-thinking leadership vision in ensuring that the nation’s progress and well-being continue to be achieved in a peaceful, prosperous, and blessed environment.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Wawasan Brunei 2035 is a long-term strategic plan launched by the government of Negara Brunei Darussalam to shape a more prosperous, advanced, and competitive future for the nation.
It is designed to achieve three main goals: First, an educated and highly skilled population; Second, a high quality of life; and Third, a dynamic and sustainable economy. This vision serves as the primary guide for setting benchmarks for the country's development towards 2035. However, in achieving these goals, there are several challenges and questions that need attention to ensure this dream does not remain just on paper. Wawasan Brunei 2035 emphasizes the need to produce a highly educated population with skills relevant to current and future needs.
Significant investments have been made in the education sector, including curriculum improvements, the provision of modern facilities, and technical training programs. However, the question arises as to whether the private and government sectors can absorb highly skilled graduates?
Secondly, if the populace is trained but there are no suitable job opportunities, will this lead to issues of trained unemployment or workforce migration abroad? Although the population is better trained, sectors such as construction and services still rely on foreign workers due to the lack of local interest. This shows that training alone is not enough without being accompanied by relevant and attractive job opportunities for the local population.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. One of the main targets of Wawasan 2035 is to ensure that the population enjoys a comfortable, safe, and healthy life. This involves improvements in the healthcare system, housing, public transportation, and social care. These efforts are essential to ensuring the social harmony and stability of the country. However, the community has yet to feel the comprehensive impact of these efforts, and several questions are worth highlighting. Does the public transportation system truly provide safe, affordable, and accessible options for everyone?
Housing programs may exist, but what about eligibility, maintenance costs, and waiting periods? Is the selection system for obtaining government housing transparent and fair? Is welfare assistance only short-term, or does it contribute to long-term poverty alleviation? All of these indicate that policy implementation needs to be inclusive, equitable, and effective to truly achieve the goal of improving the population's quality of life.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. This vision also aims to reduce Brunei's dependency on oil and gas revenues by diversifying the economy into sectors such as tourism, modern agriculture, technology, and Islamic finance. These steps aim to increase job opportunities and ensure long-term economic stability. However, there are several critical questions, are these new sectors truly capable of replacing the dominance of the oil and gas sector?
Are the people interested and sufficiently trained to venture into new fields such as technology and modern agriculture? Is the government support and infrastructure adequate to make these sectors competitive internationally? This shows that efforts to diversify the economy need to be comprehensive and supported by policies, training, and long-term investments.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. If all citizens of Negara Brunei Darussalam play their respective roles, the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035 can not only be achieved but can also position Negara Brunei Darussalam as a distinguished and respected nation internationally.
However, true success depends on fair, inclusive, and sustainable implementation as well as addressing the raised questions. With knowledge, a spirit of cooperation, and wise leadership, Brunei can surely progress towards a more glorious future.
That concludes from kaola, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim​
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh dan salam sejahtera. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, Your Honourable Members of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara.
First and foremost, allow me to express my appreciation and many thanks to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for giving me the opportunity to also support the Vision 2035 Proposal as presented by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II.
Thank you also for the detailed explanation provided by Yang Berhormat Menteri regarding the presented Proposal and the efforts of the Government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam towards achieving this vision.
In my observation, the royal command by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for this Proposal to be debated in this esteemed Council reflects His Majesty's confidence and trust in the role of this Council as a forum for brainstorming by highlighting current issues involving the welfare and well-being of the people which require strong cooperation, innovation, and a high fighting spirit from all parties.
It also depicts His Majesty's high hopes and aspirations that this Council will produce integrated support forged with a whole-of-nation approach to realize the goals of the vision, especially in an uncertain and unpredictable global political and socioeconomic climate.
Vision Brunei 2035, personally inspired by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, in my opinion, serves not only as an official policy but also as a reflection of His Majesty's aspirations and determination in a vision for a prosperous and illustrious future for the nation. Supported by an educated and skilled populace with a dynamic, resilient, and inclusive economy.
His Majesty’s titah in conjunction with the commemoration of His Majesty’s 79th birthday on 15 July 2025 that outlined several new priority initiatives will undoubtedly have a positive impact on national development in line with the changing social landscape and current needs. This is a clear signal that the nation is always ready to adapt policies to the demands of the times and technology without neglecting noble values as a nation that upholds the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I welcome and congratulate the drafting of three blueprints as a guide for stakeholders to further develop the nation. I am fully confident that the publication of these three blueprints, Insya Allah, will be able to further accelerate the implementation of planned programs in a more organized and directional manner.
To that end, please allow me to offer a few views and suggestions as added value to support the Vision Brunei 2035 Proposal. My views consider feedback from the public, including the SMEs business community and youth enterprises. It is very directly connected to issues of employment, poverty eradication, living costs, cost of doing business, all of which involve the interests and welfare of the country’s citizens and residents.
The six aspirations and policy directions presented in the Economic Blueprint, I feel, are broad enough to be explored by entrepreneurs to advance their businesses, especially those that leverage technology and innovation. However, to ensure its effectiveness, I believe each blueprint should be accompanied by a more detailed roadmap action plan so that it becomes a living document for stakeholders to embrace and actively engage in to achieve this vision target. Synergy, coordination, alignment, and thorough integration between implementing agencies will expedite decision-making processes and strengthen the confidence of all parties to contribute toward achieving the targeted goals. This is hoped to improve the business ecosystem holistically.
I am aware that many efforts have already been undertaken by relevant agencies in expanding the current business ecosystem. However, the full effectiveness of these initiatives can only be achieved with cooperation from all parties. Hence, I suggest that this process be thoroughly reviewed to ensure this ecosystem is not only transparent and efficient but also business investment-friendly and supports the growth of local businesses, especially SMEs.
With a more conducive and pro-business environment, it's anticipated that this will increase opportunities for domestic enterprises, trade, and services and subsequently attract more new FDIs to the country. This, Insya Allah, will create more new and quality job opportunities, hoped to reduce unemployment rates, labor under-utilization, and the number of citizens falling under the poverty category.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. To achieve the targeted direction, in my opinion, the policies and plans presented need to be reinforced in an efficient and effective implementation system, delivery system, and monitoring system.
The achievement system must be agile, responsive, and solution-oriented. Each strategy must be supported by measurable goals, clear milestones, and success indicators. It must also be evaluated objectively and continuously to gauge the on-the-ground impact.
I feel this challenge cannot solely be resolved through the rapid and sophisticated introduction of technology or digital transformation; it also requires us to address the entire issue and a change in mindset, attitude, and commitment in fulfilling our responsibilities and duties. Towards this, the Standard Operating Procedure and communication between implementing agencies must be clear, aligned, and transparent. I am aware that many initiatives have already been undertaken to strengthen and increase public service productivity. Nevertheless, the reality is we still hear complaints from the public about time-consuming procedures and inconsistencies in processing.
Towards that, public servants as the backbone of national policy implementation must continue to be empowered with progressive work culture training and readiness to embrace change to facilitate and expedite citizens' affairs more efficiently. Updating and evaluating the Civil Service Framework should be carried out continuously. It must also be supported by a robust human resources development framework that includes talent identification, succession planning, strengthening leadership talents, and reinforcing a culture of integrity and professionalism. A progressive public service will be able to produce more excellent and competent officers who will become future leaders serving as catalysts toward achieving Vision Brunei 2035 in an integrated and coordinated manner, Insya Allah.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. In the 2025/2026 Budget debate, I previously suggested the need to activate the Strategic Development Capital facility and a portion of the country's reserve fund for domestic investment as a stimulus for local economic activities and to attract FDI.
This fund could be focused on strategic domestic investments, particularly in non-oil and gas sectors such as green technology, halal industry, fintech and Islamic finance, exclusive tourism, and smart agriculture. For instance, the global halal and tourism markets offer significant opportunities and must be explored aggressively and systematically.
Similarly, for the IT industry and related services, which are now significant contributors to economic growth for countries in the region. To that end, the digital transformation plan to position the country as a Connected Smart Nation, including highlighting the potential of Artificial Intelligence, AI, in various sectors as recently decreed by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, should be expedited. This is particularly so in light of the enforcement of the Personal Data Protection Order coming into effect on 1 January 2026. Investment in these sectors will not only diversify the economy but will also expand the nation's income base while creating high-value job opportunities for local citizens, especially the youth. This, Insya Allah, will fulfill aspirations not only to produce skilled, adaptive, and innovative citizens but also ones that are independent, resilient, and future-ready without neglecting spiritual and ukhrawi (otherworldly) values and practices of the Malay Islamic Monarchy. This step is also hoped to realize aspirations to make Negara Brunei Darussalam an investment and trade hub attracting FDIs with a strong market network.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I welcome the efforts of DARe and BEDB in providing industrial and business sites in the country. However, some of these industrial sites still need to be upgraded so that they are industry-ready and competitive. To ensure continuity and long-term impact, development needs to be underpinned by a comprehensive industrial policy. Towards that end, the existing Integrated Industrial Policy, IIP, should be further refined so that it is more comprehensive, competitive, responsive, and affordable, and complemented with market studies and feasibility analyses.
In this aspect, I also suggest examining the possibility of establishing a Free Economic Zone or Free Trade Zone with favorable regulations as a driver and catalyst for strategic industrial growth based on identified clusters. To encourage the involvement of local entrepreneurs, especially SMEs, the Local Business Development program must also be expanded to harness spin-offs from these economic activities.
Here also lies the importance of the role of domestic financial institutions as enablers towards activating the involvement of local entrepreneurs in a specific manner. The 2024 Brunei Central Bank report indicates that a substantial portion of savings within the financial industry in the country has not yet been significantly utilized for investment in the real sector.
Therefore, I suggest that regulations governing national financial institutions should be reviewed and updated so that they are more inclusive and proactive in supporting business growth to assist widespread economic development.
I propose this because during meetings with local entrepreneurs including the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei, we are grateful and proud of the increasing involvement of youth in the business sector. Many youth enterprises have ventured into new fields such as the digital economy, social innovation, agribusiness, aquaculture, creative industries, software, real estate, and so forth. However, the challenge they face is difficulty accessing financial resources and upgrading their skills.
I recognize that several schemes have been provided to assist these youths. However, young entrepreneurs still grapple with issues in securing and satisfying the guarantees, collateral for their loans at reasonable profit rates.
Therefore, one option that can be explored is the possibility that the function of the existing Bank Usahawan can be updated to provide targeted financing to young entrepreneurs and local start-ups, including providing comprehensive skills mentoring for SMEs at a reasonable profit rate.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. In our efforts to fulfill Vision Brunei 2035, I fully support the government's efforts in adopting a whole-of-nation approach. Alhamdulillah, this approach is indeed necessary to help enhance inclusivity in policy and regulation formation.
While this practice has been implemented in certain situations, I personally feel it is still suitable to be further expanded, given its positive impact on planned policy and regulation formation. The involvement of stakeholders, especially from market industrial players and professionals, will enrich state policies with insights from diverse sectors and backgrounds. It will not only provide a true depiction of the current on-the-ground situation but will also act to strengthen governance.
However, appointment criteria must be reinforced based on merit, integrity, and professionalism. Equally important is the comprehensive, transparent, and continuous dissemination of government initiatives. This dissemination aims to provide the correct, positive, and clear perspectives on government efforts and initiatives.
Towards that, the role of official media needs to be strengthened to ensure the public understands the rationale behind a policy and is not easily influenced by inaccurate information. Credible media serve as a bridge between the government and the public, fostering continuous trust and support for national policies. It plays a strategic role in building a positive image of the country, attracting more participation from citizens and residents, as well as investors and tourists.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, that is all my brief views as input to support the Vision 2035 Proposal. I believe Vision Brunei 2035 is increasingly crucial in facing the increasingly complex global challenges.
What is paramount is the collective commitment, strong coordination, and shared spirit of all citizens and residents towards achieving the Vision Brunei 2035 goals so that the nation will always be a Baldatun Tayyibatun Warabbun Ghafur, blessed and joyful under Allah's protection, with its citizens and residents living in peace, well-being under the wise, visionary, and caring leadership of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam. With Allah's permission and the spirit of solidarity, I am fully confident that not only can we achieve Vision 2035, but we can do so with wisdom, dignity, competitiveness, and resilience, Insya Allah.
May the country continue to receive blessings, guidance, and continue to be granted prosperity, peace, and security under the protection of Allah The Most Gracious, The Preserver.
That is all, Wabillahi taufiq wal hidayah Assalamualaikum Warahmatullah. I apologize Pehin, for exceeding the 15-minute limit and once again, express my sincere appreciation for the allowance Pehin has made. Thank you, Pehin.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
I invite Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd Salam​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pehin Yang Di-Pertua.
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim (prayer is recited). Yang Berhormat Pehin Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh and greetings of peace. At the outset, kaola would like to extend my deepest appreciation and thanks to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the opportunity to participate in discussing the motion put forward by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri and Menteri Pertahanan II regarding the Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Kaola welcome and fully support the motion which kaola find very relevant as Wawasan Brunei 2035 is not just an aspirational document but a strategic direction for the country to be enjoyed by all citizens. Its implementation demands an integrated approach based on impact assessment data and administrative and social system transformations.
On this occasion, kaola also appreciate the dedication of Yang Berhormat Ministers and all parties involved in preparing the Blueprint documents and implementing the country's strategic action plans in pursuit of the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, in less than ten years from now, we will enter the year 2035, the target year to realize the three national goals of the Vision. Our priority now is to ensure these goals become a reality for all citizens and not just pass by as mere memories. Towards this, three important foundations must be strengthened: an excellent and integral Public Service, robust infrastructure, and a cohesive society as the foundation of social strength and a catalyst for inclusive and resilient progress.
On this occasion, allow kaola to discuss the empowerment of Public Service excellence and the eradication of poverty and continuous dependence on aid. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, the Public Service is not just a policy implementer but the face of the government to the people and the driving force of national administration. Without efficient and responsive delivery, the best policies or plans will not impact the people and may even disappoint them.
Therefore, the Public Service must achieve the highest level in terms of efficiency, integrity, and competitiveness. Kaola acknowledge the Public Sector Performance Grading, 3PSA statistics up to the Financial Year 2023/2024, showing a decline where two agencies achieved a very good four-star rating, six agencies achieved a three-star or good level, fourteen agencies obtained two stars, which is satisfactory, and twenty-six agencies received one star, which requires improvement.
Is there an evaluation conducted on the effectiveness of the existing strategies and the reason for this decline? And what are the next action plans to ensure the quality of the country's services reaches excellence before we reach 2035? Alhamdulillah, kaola appreciate the government's efforts to continuously improve the quality and Public Service in this country. Kaola hope the Public Service modernization plan will bridge the gap between the policies formulated and the delivery and reality of the people's lives, which often become challenges for the citizens when dealing with the country's Public Service.
Kaola share some of the complaints often heard on social media and in gatherings are such as widespread bureaucracy, information that is difficult to access, systems that are not user-friendly, whether physical or digital, especially for vulnerable groups. And the lack or absence of system and process integration between ministries or agencies.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, excellent service is not an option, it is a necessity in the administration of a country. Therefore, in the government's effort to transform policy delivery in the country's Public Service effectively, kaola wish to add several suggestions to what has been presented by Yang Berhormat Menteri earlier. Among them is to introduce civil service workplace culture reforms by instilling the 'Civil Servant as Facilitator' ethic, serving the people and being ready to provide the best.
Furthermore, strengthen the 3PSA program evaluation methods, including conducting cross-agency health checks. Introduce outcome-based and productivity-based monitoring, create an open agency performance dashboard on the ministry's website that can be accessed. Empower the roles of the Department of Service Management and the Public Service Institute in line with their mission and vision as government institutions directly responsible for the development of excellent public services.
Digitalization or e-services should be friendly and inclusive, easy, simple, and accessible to all levels of society. Kaola welcome the government's initiative to strengthen the public service performance evaluation system based on work impact and outcomes and introduce a citizen feedback mechanism as input to improve policies within services.
This initiative demonstrates the government's willingness to act more transparently in service delivery. Kaola are interested in Yang Berhormat Menteri's statement earlier regarding the whole of government and whole of nation approach in services. Kaola hope these approaches are fully translated into practical and effective public service operations by coordinating centralized services across ministries to expedite processes and reduce bureaucracy.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. We must realize that not all citizens evaluate policies through documents, but more evaluate through their experiences at counters, digital portals, and in their communications with government parties or public servants. What is expected with the existing public service modernization plan is to see change regardless of responsible status, with the intention to deliver efficient and effective policy and service with integrity, we must implement it with one voice, one system, and one heart.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Furthermore, the Social Blueprint Brunei Darussalam reveals that as of April 2024, over 10,000 citizens receive monthly assistance and 73 percent of them are healthy individuals capable of working. This dependency is identified as not only due to income deficiency but also other structural and social challenges such as childcare, transportation, lack of work skills, and further compounded by perceptions and mindsets formed from prolonged experiences of vulnerability. The question is how effective are the current approaches at genuinely supporting social mobility rather than merely managing short-term needs? Has there been an evaluation conducted on this?
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola recognize the function of the National Welfare System, SKN in aligning the assistance process and facilitating the systematic processing of applications, however, the SKN has the potential to be strengthened with system upgrades and transformation to SKN 2.0 and so on.
As a more strategic and responsive integrated digital system as a comprehensive policy monitoring framework emphasizing culture and avoiding continuous dependence on aid. The upgrade includes conducting comprehensive social profiling and categorization based on income, skills, interests, family responsibilities, and work readiness and identifying interventions that align with recipients' life realities.
Introduce job models and infrastructure facilities suitable to the needs of individuals and their life situations such as introducing flexible working hours for public servants especially vulnerable groups such as women, single mothers, and people with disabilities. Establish a social mobility dashboard to track changes in individual's social status in real-time and evaluate intervention effectiveness continuously.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. The role of the National Council of Social Issues, MKIS as a committee at the national level addressing social issues in the country is also very important and has the potential to be empowered as a national reference center for national social challenges by involving the private sector, NGOs, scholars, and stakeholders according to its membership and given a stronger mandate and sufficient resources to coordinate SKN implementation and monitor the impact of assistance programs, establish engagement platforms with the community to expand social networks such as Interactive Digital Portal, Dialogue Council and Community Forum. Establish community empowerment centers at the district or mukim level as one-stop centers offering training, career counseling, and support such as childcare.
Introduce transparent social reporting systems to the community including crime statistics, types of cases, locations, and current trends without affecting individual dignity and introduce programs or "graduation" models, which provide exit pathways from assistance with initial incentives such as temporary wage subsidies and microloans or social savings accounts.
MKIS should also pay serious attention to the increasing social issues that are becoming more pronounced with very worrying statistics such as the recidivism rate of prisoners increasing by 14.6 percent, 60 percent of drug offenders are repeat offenders and 52 percent of them are unemployed. Cybercrime documented 1,127 cases in 2022, HIV cases have increased by 98 percent between 2019 and 2023 mostly among men.
The birth of illegitimate children among Malay Muslims has increased by 72 percent, and there's also a trend of elderly neglect. A comprehensive approach is greatly needed, encompassing social intervention, civil and syariah law enforcement, active participation of grassroots leaders namely village chiefs, and heads of households, and the public through the internalization of MIB values. The synergy of all these institutions will not only improve administrative efficiency and expedite social rehabilitation but also reflect the country's commitment to justice, inclusivity, and overall citizen welfare. Kaola request to conclude this debate Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
In conclusion, an excellent Brunei nation is not just a vision, it is a reality shaped by systems that must be activated as a national agenda uniting the entire citizenry and building a brighter, fairer, and more sustainable future for the country. Wawasan Brunei 2035 must be translated through the integrated implementation of all stakeholders' policies based on a transparent, inclusive, and high-impact service delivery timeline and social gap monitoring. In this regard, kaola are confident that the Vision Office at the Prime Minister's Department also plays a very important role as the main coordinator of national policy and aspirations. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Consensus brings blessings. Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin​
What a pleasant surprise. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Thank you for the opportunity given to kaola to express views in this very important debate. Firstly, kaola would like to record the highest appreciation to the ministries and the staff of the Vision Committee for all the efforts and commitment and hard work that has been demonstrated in carrying out the country's strategic plans towards realizing Wawasan Brunei 2035 is greatly appreciated.
Kaola fully support the motion presented and proposed by Yang Berhormat Pehin. Kaola express deep gratitude for the space and opportunity granted by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam to hold this open debate with a spirit of wanting to further improve policy and legal implementation to be in line with the people's realities and national aspirations.
With only nine years remaining before the year 2035, a main question often arises from the people as to when the tangible results from all the plans and initiatives laid out will truly be felt in their daily lives. Many have opined that although some action plans appear complete, achievements still have not fully met the expectations of the people.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Kaola believes that to achieve the grand goals of Wawasan 2035, the basic needs of the people cannot be overlooked as outlined in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, where survival ability must be met first, followed by comfort needs, only then can self-actualisation be comprehensively achieved.
High aspirations will not, pardon the interruption. That is when we use a laptop and your hands are free. High aspirations will not hold meaning and be achieved as long as many are still struggling with basic needs. For example, what is the importance of academic achievement if 1,000 to 1,500 students leave school each year still unable to read and count well? And only 35% of our children annually achieve 'O' level qualifications to continue their education at higher levels. To achieve the number one vision goal of Educated, Highly Skilled and Accomplished People, inclusive outcomes must ensure comprehensive basic education with no child left behind.
Further education should not only provide opportunities to attend university but ensure graduates have job opportunities and commensurate pay. Kaola feels compassion and concern because some of our graduates, our young people from world-renowned universities like Cambridge, Oxford, Al-Azhar and the like, still do not have jobs or jobs in their fields or do not receive appropriate remuneration.
In the economy, kaola acknowledges challenging economic conditions, the country still achieves impressive economic growth. Unfortunately, domestic economic development is dominated by 75,000 foreign workers in the labor market, hindering the career mobility of locals. There are 14,000 unemployed locals, while 32,600 people are under-utilized, including more than 3,000 graduates who have yet to penetrate the appropriate job market.
Similarly, with economic growth, we welcome microeconomic stability but the wealth hasn't truly reached the people. Many local entrepreneurs still face challenges in terms of cash flow due to outstanding payments and restricted market access and loans. Meanwhile, investment benefits tend to be concentrated among a select few.
In pursuing entrepreneurship and diversifying the economy, previously the phenomenon of Ali Baba was commonly heard among contractors of government tenders, now the phenomenon of Ali Chandran, foreign nationals, is increasingly prevalent in the retail, construction, agriculture and other sectors. This raises public concern that if this phenomenon is not monitored by specific agencies, these sectors will continue to be dominated by foreigners and locals will be excluded from the economic chain within their own country.
Kaola believes we can change this trajectory. With more strategic policies focusing on the people and taking feedback from the people, we can ensure faster service delivery, we need to create a more conducive space, if necessary, an exclusive space for locals to compete healthily among themselves and when the economy is healthy, they can compete openly in the economic sector.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In the halal sector, where have we gone wrong in what should be one of the nation's strategic strengths guided by Islamic values, but in reality, the issuance of halal certificates is still slow and lacking in monitoring raises questions about its credibility. Kaola suggests that we involve more actively the many sharia scholars who are still unemployed in the halal industry, not only as advisors but as strategic partners in certification and monitoring innovation. Their involvement is also important in setting standards appropriate to modern industry developments and driving more efficient and credible certification.
However, priority should not stop at the halal sector alone; the same principle is to identify internal strengths, to play to our strength. The country should be used to explore fields strategically and inclusively. This approach will ensure the diversification policy is truly grounded in reality based on Brunei’s resource capacity and uniqueness.
In welfare, despite being known as a wealthy country with one of the highest GDP in ASEAN, kaola is moved by the data that the recipients of the country's welfare schemes have increased from 20,750 in 2012 to 56,000 applicants writing SKN by May 2024. The government remains concerned, and the people appreciate the assistance given. However, the data shows that out of 10,041 current assistance recipients, more than 70 percent are able-bodied individuals, while there are still elderly and widows living below the poverty line relying solely on old-age pensions.
This indicates the need for a conditional welfare policy that can encourage active participation in society while providing protection to those who truly need it. Kaola proposes that these able-bodied individuals continue receiving assistance. They should be given conditional aid where this assistance serves as incentives for their involvement in community programs like social work, helping clean public infrastructure, mosques, and developing villages or passing skills development courses.
Thus, their participation becomes part of the social welfare contract, not only reducing their dependency on aid but encouraging them to feel responsible and want to empower themselves while contributing to the community.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Allow kaola to make suggestions for fostering a culture of monitoring and accountability so that we can evaluate policy implementations in achieving the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035 more accurately and responsibly.
Firstly, kaola would like to propose the formation of a National Integrated KPI Dashboard, a national platform unifying the monitoring of Wawasan Brunei 2035’s 37 KPIs alongside the implementation of the Economic Blueprint, Manpower Blueprint, Social Blueprint, and projects under RKN supporting Wawasan Brunei 2035. If complemented with selected elements from the Sustainable Development Goals supporting vision objectives. This Dashboard can provide a comprehensive overview across ministries, aligning policies, and avoiding overlap and misalignment in implementations.
Secondly, the dashboard should also serve as an Integrated Annual Monitoring and quarterly performance review tool. With an accessible and transparent public dashboard, policy interventions can be made quicker, data-driven, and considerate of current realities.
Thirdly is the Three-Year Evaluation Phase Distribution. Despite Wawasan Brunei 2035 arriving within 9 years, this period is too long for ensuring focused delivery. Kaola believes that splitting the remainder of this period into three phases of three years each for focused deliverability and accountability. This approach enables emphasis on deliverability with clear, measurable indicators and accountable output.
The fourth suggestion is clear responsibility mapping. It calls for a more precise clarification of roles and responsibilities between ministries, implementing agencies, and among public servants. This will minimize ping-pong culture from one department to another and expedite implementations.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Wrapping up this debate, allow kaola once more to emphasize the importance of strengthening Wawasan Brunei 2035's delivery by addressing fundamental needs first. Firstly, the national Dashboard as a comprehensive and transparent monitoring tool. Secondly, an Economic Blueprint genuinely generating wealth for the country and its people. Thirdly, human resource policies that open meaningful and long-term job opportunities. Fourthly, an educational system reinforcing basic skills and aligning with market needs. Fifthly, social programs ensuring Maqasid Shariah protect those in need and activate the able-bodied; and sixth, progressive, responsive, courageous, and wise decision-making public servants.
Kaola acknowledges in challenging global geopolitical and economic contexts, the nation's achievements like microeconomic stability, increased learning scores in international assessments like PISA, and the digitalization of social assistance are commendable progress. However, a clear, transparent achievement system that assures meeting the basic needs of the people by understanding and ensuring no one is left behind in the nation’s development process, only then can Wawasan Brunei 2035 programs gain full support and truly motivate the people towards attaining Wawasan Brunei 2035's objectives together, Insya Allah.
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
I now invite Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman​
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh and greetings of peace. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim (prayer recited).
Kaola would first like to express my deepest gratitude to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the opportunity given to kaola to participate in the debate on the Brunei Vision 2035 Motion presented by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Defence II. This assembly proposes integrated action and support conceived with a national approach to realize the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
Kaola fully supports the Motion presented, which includes the need for the Assembly to review proposals and ideas submitted while considering emerging issues at the global level to be acted upon by relevant stakeholders as appropriate.
In the effort to strengthen strategic implementation and action plans towards achieving the main objectives of the vision, three blueprints—Manpower Blueprint, Social Blueprint, and Economic Blueprint—have been produced in collaboration with all identified stakeholders among the ministries to ensure that every plan is organized and successful as aspired in Brunei Vision 2035. The Motion further emphasizes that to ensure Brunei Darussalam realizes Brunei Vision 2035, the assembly proposes integrated action and support conceived with a national approach.
Kaola wishes to express heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the Honourable Ministers and officials who have succeeded in producing these blueprints as a national guide for action plans and also to drive the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of any organized plans.
With the production of this blueprint, as stated, which results from the whole of government approach, kaola is confident that it will be easier for the country to achieve all the goals of the National Vision 2035 because there is already consensus, understanding, cooperation, and integrated action among all ministries, including all civil servants, to achieve the vision goals by 2035. What we hope for by 2035 is that Brunei Darussalam will have well-educated, highly skilled, and successful citizens, a high quality of life, and a dynamic and stable economy.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, in supporting this Motion and hoping that Brunei Vision 2035 will achieve its goals, several questions and concerns arise in kaola's mind. Firstly, global political turmoil and economic instability will be challenges to the nation's efforts to achieve National Vision 2035.
Therefore, kaola sees that bilateral cooperation between Brunei and other countries encompassing all fields needs to be strengthened. Alhamdulillah, under the leadership of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the nation is highly respected; we have good relations with all countries, and kaola believes that with the existing close friendships, it will be easier for the country to forge strategic alliances, establish economic relations, organize trade missions, form trade agreements, joint venture projects, and attract investments from friendly countries that can bring mutual benefits to both countries.
Kaola believes we need to act proactively where business opportunities, investments, and joint ventures can be explored. Certainly, trade, economic, and agricultural relations between ASEAN countries and Brunei Darussalam can be deepened, that is, we can deepen our relations with them in various fields.
Secondly, as decreed by 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 as included in the reference paper for the Brunei Vision 2035 Motion, where His Majesty decreed, "We need dynamic and high-quality human capital that can adapt to change and drive progress."
Kaola touches on this matter because of kaola's concern about the readiness, that is, the readiness of the civil service members to support the effort to realize the goals of Brunei Vision 2035. The Brunei Vision 2035 Working Committee has issued a Manpower Blueprint containing four aspirations to achieve a dynamic workforce vision.
The emphasis on future preparedness, prioritizing dynamic education and training so that they are knowledgeable, skilled, ethical, and adaptive, and producing productive and efficient workers, is precise and important. These characteristics should be possessed when they hold civil service positions or any other jobs.
Kaola hopes the Manpower Working Committee will continue to strive to produce a dynamic workforce committed to being problem solvers, be part of the solution rather than part of a problem. At present, we still face issues with civil servants who provide insufficient cooperation and seem disconnected from the big picture, which is Brunei Vision 2035, and do not fully appreciate Brunei Vision 2035 to offer services that support achieving Brunei Vision 2035.
Kaola also hopes that the issue of job shortages, the issue of misalignment between supply and demand, can be promptly addressed for us to achieve full employment or a convincing employment rate. The reality at present is that it is difficult to find employment. This is faced not only by job seekers who are school leavers but also notably among graduates with degrees, Masters, PhDs, and so forth.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, kaola would like to briefly touch on the Economic Blueprint, which is very detailed in strategizing to achieve a dynamic and sustainable economy. Kaola considers that with such a comprehensive Economic Blueprint and a very clear roadmap towards economic growth, we are confident in strengthening the national economy not to rely solely on oil and gas revenues.
We also hope that efforts towards economic diversification will easily and extensively involve the private sector. At present, the private sector feels that its role in the effort to achieve Brunei Vision 2035 is not taken seriously; even in discussions with several private sector representatives, they expressed difficulties in conducting business due to a business environment that is not friendly and conducive.
Kaola feels that the gap in cooperation or understanding between the private sector and government needs to be narrowed to avoid misunderstandings between the two parties because, in kaola's view, to achieve the goal of Brunei Vision 2035, it is crucial to build mutual trust between both parties.
The Economic Blueprint underscores the importance of the private sector's role. This is accurate, and kaola hopes that in our effort to achieve Brunei Vision 2035, the private sector's role will be more prominent, where there is a conscious effort to advance local business development.
Kaola also wants to touch on how far our efforts to attract foreign investment into the country have succeeded and whether the results are significant. Because as we state in the Economic Blueprint, FDIs are important. Kaola is concerned that in our eagerness to introduce new policies and regulations, instead of attracting foreign investors, we might face issues of delays, red tape, and less clear information, leading them to cancel plans to invest in the country.
This arises from several findings by kaola, hoping that such cases are not many. We should have policies that can attract foreign investors, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and the development of various types of industries that can bring capital into Brunei rather than causing capital flight.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, as we constantly remind ourselves, the period to achieve Brunei Vision 2035 is only 10 years away. It is not a long time, and from now. What we state in the Manpower Blueprint, Social Blueprint, and Economic Blueprint should already be more than 60 percent or 70 percent implemented.
We want to see where and what our achievements have been since the inception of Brunei Vision 2035. At present, we are unsure of how much we have achieved, because what is stated in either the Manpower Blueprint or the Economic Blueprint is merely aspiration. In doing this, like a circle, we must know how much of that circle we have completed. For kaola, aspirations are not easy to achieve within 10 years, if there are things that we have yet to start.
Finally, kaola would like to touch on the Social Blueprint, where kaola believes this is our actual goal in Brunei Vision 2035, which is to achieve a high quality of life for the people. If today we enjoy a peaceful, prosperous, and sufficient life, by 2035 and beyond, we want to see the citizens and residents of this country continue to enjoy the same life, if not more prosperous. For that, we need methods to monitor the people's welfare, such as ensuring access to basic needs, healthcare and medical services, housing, places of worship, education, and employment for all, among others.
The responsible agencies must be efficient in performing their duties to prevent injustice, neglect, or the existence of marginalized communities still struggling with daily problems and difficulties in supporting their families from month to month, and so on.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, finally, allow kaola to express an opinion that for Brunei Vision 2035 to succeed, it must be clear, realistic, and easy to monitor. It requires strong leadership at every level of implementation, involving all government and private sector stakeholders. Robust and adaptable planning and implementation must be regularly monitored and evaluated, and the progress continuously communicated to the people to ensure they understand and support every effort concerning it.
That is all, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua of the Council, kaola wishes to once again express kaola's support for the Vision Motion. With the blessings of the leadership 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, with a national effort and public involvement, with the grace and permission of Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala, we will achieve the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
Thank you, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. We have discussed this motion and I believe we have negotiated enough, and I would like to propose that we adjourn this meeting until tomorrow, which is Tuesday, 5th August 2025, as usual, starting from 9.30 am.
Thank you, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
(National Assembly is adjourned)
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