DAY 3
📖 Reading time: 121 minutes
📊 Word count: 24,223 words
6TH AUGUST 2025​
(Meeting commenced at 9.30 am)
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. The Second Meeting of the 21st Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara convenes on the third day, today, Wednesday, 12 Safar 1447 corresponding to 6 August 2025, starting with a Doa Selamat.
DOA SELAMAT​
(The Doa Selamat was read by Yang Dimuliakan Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustafa bin Haji Murat, Imam of Jame’ Asr Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque)
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 for His Grace, which has allowed us to gather again this morning to convene for the third day of the Second Meeting of the 21st Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara.
May peace and blessings be upon our Noble Prophet, Sayyidina Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam, his family, companions, and loyal followers until the end of time.
Your Honourable Members. As usual, we will commence our meeting today with the order of the agenda.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Question Time for Oral Answers.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. We now proceed to Question Time, and I refer to the list of questions that have been submitted.
I begin with the first question posed by Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II. Please proceed.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, peace be upon you, and God's blessings, good morning and best wishes.
On this occasion, kaola express gratitude to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for allowing us to respond to oral questions and not forgetting kaola thank Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam for her question regarding the Drafting of Sexual Harassment Guidelines in the Workplace and the timeline set for its official implementation, and kaola also extend gratitude to Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin for the question about the Ministry's actions in addressing workplace bullying issues.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
In connection with this, kaola seek permission to answer both related questions. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
The Prime Minister's Department, through a task force for the preparation of the Guidelines for Handling Sexual Harassment in the Workplace within the Public Service in Brunei Darussalam, has completed the initial draft of the sexual harassment guidelines early on and has held various discussions and further reviews with relevant stakeholders, including interpretation of the provisions included in the guidelines to avoid any misunderstandings and contradictions with existing related legislation. Briefly, the actions taken include: First, conducting Focus Group workshop sessions. Second, discussions during the Permanent Secretaries' Forum. Third, discussions during the Directors’ Administration Forum in Ministries. Fourth, circulating the guidelines to Permanent Secretaries through the Permanent Secretaries’ Forum secretariat and the private sector. Fifth, simulation sessions for assessing the effectiveness of the processes under the Guidelines for Handling Sexual Harassment in the Workplace within the Public Service in Brunei Darussalam and conducting a pilot study from 28 January 2025 to 19 May 2025 as an initial testing of the guidelines involving the relevant ministries.
At the conclusion of the pilot study, a feedback form regarding the guidelines was distributed to the participating ministries to evaluate the level of understanding, effectiveness, and acceptance of the public administration towards the implementation of the guidelines.
Overall, according to the feedback from the concerned agencies, the guidelines were well-received. However, further dissemination of the guidelines is still required to ensure that every key aspect, including all parties involved in the related processes, has been taken into account, especially to prevent any misunderstanding, comprehension, and implementation of the guidelines before their release this year.
Regarding workplace bullying or workplace harassment issues, this matter is also included in the types of disturbances in the workplace as outlined in the proposed guidelines. The proposed definition of workplace bullying in the guidelines refers to actions or statements in the form of threats, humiliation, intimidation, or insults to someone, such as unreasonable and continuous criticism or insults via methods, including electronic media like text messages, emails, or social media platforms.
Through these guidelines, it will enable ministries and departments to undertake actions to handle cases of workplace harassment, including workplace bullying, to ensure a harmonious work environment and the welfare of the workforce is guaranteed. Support and assistance are also available for any officer and staff experiencing stress due to workplace bullying through counseling services at the Counseling Services Division at the Public Service Department, either through walk-in and self-referral or through referrals from ministries and departments.
To facilitate implementation and maintain the confidentiality of information, applications for counseling can be filled in through the Human Resources System, SSM, by officers seeking counseling.
It is also shared that, according to counseling statistics at the Public Service Department over the past five years, within the category of work environment issues, a total of 22 cases have been recorded, with workplace bullying being included in this category.
That is all, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua that kaola can explain. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The third question from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Kaola request once again from Yang Berhormat. Kaola request clarification on the question again.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
That which should be addressed to, which was addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi and I invite Yang Berhormat to answer it.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you, God’s blessings, best wishes, and good morning.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola would first like to express gratitude to Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim for the question regarding the ministry’s strategic steps to intensify the country's digitization to continue to thrive and contribute positively to economic growth.
As everyone knows, as the next step and as also proclaimed by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam on his 79th birthday, announcing the government’s efforts in drafting the Digital Brunei Transformation Plan. This is an ongoing effort towards realizing the aspiration of making Brunei Darussalam as a smart country. This plan will also, God willing, encompass a national approach to the application of Artificial Intelligence technology, as one of the emerging technologies rapidly growing on a global level.
This plan is a continuation of the Digital Economy Masterplan 2025, which has focused efforts on enablers such as laws, policies, shared government service connectivity, and flagship projects like the National Information Hub, which is already completed, while the Digital ID and National Payment Gateway projects are in the pilot phase.
The Digital Brunei Transformation Plan aims to focus on impact drivers where citizens and businesses are empowered to thrive based on reliable services, inclusive access, and innovation. It will cover sectors such as government, society, business, and technology like AI. With this digitization development, it will contribute positively to economic growth as a catalyst for economic growth by increasing productivity, fostering innovation, expanding markets, and enabling better public sector services. At the same time, the Wawasan Brunei 2035 Economic Blueprint has also identified the ICT sector's contribution to GDP by targeting higher growth from the rate of about 40.1 percent between 2017 and 2024.
The related aspirations are: First, Aspiration One in the Economic Blueprint, which is for productive and thriving businesses where entrepreneurs are expected to be competitive, grow, and resilient by exploring new markets and opportunities benefiting from technology and innovation; and Second, Aspiration Five, high-quality and competitive economic infrastructure, where economic infrastructure should have the capacity to support and expand the nation's business. This includes also well-connected digital networks.
All this certainly requires the commitment and involvement of all stakeholders to work hand in hand. In this regard, one of the efforts in drafting the Digital Brunei Transformation Plan is to hold a series of consultations with stakeholder engagements in the near future. That is all that is informed, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The next question, which is from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof, also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi. Please proceed.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you once again, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. The question from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof with reference PL226 regarding preventive measures against digital system intrusion and the nation's collective readiness to tackle the increasingly complex cyber threats touches on a very important issue that requires attention and observation from all parties.
Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, involving various parties including the government, private sectors at all levels, and the community at large. Besides the statistics mentioned by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof, for your information, in recent years, for example, the Southeast Asian region as a whole has experienced an unprecedented wave of cyber-attacks. These target critical sectors such as telecommunications, government healthcare, and financial institutions, which have resulted in disruptions to services and threatened the stability of digital infrastructure.
Coordinated Ransomware Attacks have also once paralyzed government data centers. Meanwhile, phishing schemes have targeted banking systems. This, among other things, is to expose vulnerabilities with the intent to undermine public trust.
Cyber threats, especially those involving attacks on critical infrastructure, data breaches, and service disruptions are often orchestrated by organized groups, advanced persistent threat actors, and possibly state-sponsored actors.
In this context, in the rapidly growing digital era, cybersecurity is no longer an option but a strategic necessity to ensure the nation's stability, security, and sovereignty. It cannot be denied that a comprehensive and systematic response is needed. Negara Brunei Darussalam is no exception to this risk. In this context, among the measures to strengthen the nation's preparedness in dealing with cyber threats are multifaceted efforts through the National Security Committee, the National Cybersecurity Committee, Cyber Security Brunei agency, and non-governmental, private agencies, as well as the Brunei Cyber Security Association.
In efforts to protect critical information infrastructure within the country, focus is given to ensuring that design and construction are resilient. Real-time monitoring has been introduced and enhanced through the Cyberwatch Centre to detect any threats and take action before they cause harm or further harm. For this, the Brunei Computer Emergency Response Team, BruCERT, was also established to handle cybersecurity incidents and carry out cyber drill exercises, including collaborating bilaterally regionally with international organizations.
In this context, the Cyber Security Brunei Agency plays a crucial role in uniting the collective efforts of the government, industry, and community to implement protection strategies guided by international best practices. Audit guidelines and risk assessments have also been published for use by any CII owners to evaluate their cyber risk levels and controls effectiveness. The computer systems used for government service delivery and essential functions are also part of the critical information infrastructure.
In this context, initiatives implemented through the National e-Government Centre include identifying several security weaknesses and operational gaps that could affect service continuity. Among the responses to these findings are projects like the installation of Next Gen Firewall, implementing active directory refresh, introducing central account password privileged management, implementing Multifactor Authentication, and enhancing endpoint detection and response.
Further, in line with efforts to strengthen the government digital infrastructure's security and collective preparedness, all system owners placed in the Agency Data Center are required to ensure their respective ministry/department systems meet the specified criteria.
This is to maintain digital cyber hygiene in the One Government Private Cloud and ensure the use of up-to-date and supported operating systems and software. The installation of security software implements immediate upgrades based on assessment reports and ensures only active systems are placed in the data center. In assessing the nation's collective preparedness level, Negara Brunei Darussalam also participates in the Global Cyber Security Index, GCI, which measures a country's commitment to cybersecurity, covering 5 pillars: legal, technical, organizational, capacity development, and cooperation. The result of this assessment aims to help countries identify areas for improvement and encourage them to act in building capacity and capability under each pillar. The performance of the country is measured according to 5 tiers, with tier 1 being the highest and tier 5 the lowest.
For the 2024 assessment, Negara Brunei Darussalam has been assessed and categorized in tier 3, which is at the establishing level overall. That's what kaola can deliver, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, and thank you.
(Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan raises his hand and nods to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua)
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, for giving kaola the opportunity.
Kaola would like to ask, in addition to what has been stated by Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi earlier, kaola also wants to know whether we have sufficient manpower with various skills and expertise to handle potential cyber threats so that we can be prepared before it occurs. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof, for the additional question.
Indeed, in addressing cybersecurity, there are also 3 approaches, namely people, process, and technology. So in terms of human resources, this is one of the issues also handled through cooperation with higher institutions in Negara Brunei Darussalam to create specific courses to enhance the country's capacity in dealing with this cyber issue.
The upcoming Cybersecurity Act has also led to new job creation by establishing Cyber Security Officers in institutions. And moving forward in addressing this cyber issue, we are always reactive because of the rapid evolution of technology and threats; we will always remain reactive at this time. That's all that is shared with Yang Berhormat Pehin Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The next question is from Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Daud bin Jihan directed at Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Kaola is grateful to Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Daud bin Jihan for the question regarding workforce audit planning in all ministries or departments.
For your information, Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Daud bin Jihan, audits on the organizational structure and human resources in public service in each ministry in this country are planned under the Strategic Workforce Audit and Planning or SWAP project, which will be managed by the Prime Minister's Department through the Public Service Department. This project is to ensure that each ministry is accountable for improving human resource capacity, particularly in the First instance, examination and evaluation of actual human resource needs. Second, implementation of human resource audits and human resource planning; and third, reorganizing structural reforms within organizations in a more structured manner.
Among other objectives of the SWAP project are first, to evaluate and review the organizational structure of each ministry at the present time to comply with its mandate and core functions.
Second, to conduct a human resource audit in each ministry to identify gaps related to human resources skills and infrastructure of any function that can be combined or eliminated, challenges or failures in service interoperability and organizational efficiency; and third, to integrate findings into a matrix outlining the human capital needs of each ministry and providing various flexibilities in expansion based on the government's fiscal capability. Insya Allah, this SWAP project will later be managed by parties with expertise and knowledge in human resources and the project will be implemented this year with a 3-year implementation period.
That's all kaola can deliver, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, and thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The sixth question is from Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam, also directed at Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Thank you once again, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Kaola expresses great appreciation to Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam for the question regarding the government's readiness in implementing a flexible working hours policy in the public sector.
The working hours and days for civil servants in Negara Brunei Darussalam are governed by Article 75 of the Nation's Constitution, General Orders, Working Hours, which have been in effect since January 1, 1962. In line with current developments and to balance career needs and work-life balance, the Prime Minister's Department through the Public Service Department continuously conducts comprehensive research and analysis regarding working days, specifically on existing policies, including comparisons with the private sector in this country and countries implementing flexible working hours in their public service.
This study is further enriched through comparative course research and analysis examining the suitability of this policy implementation in the context of the public service of Negara Brunei Darussalam currently conducted by one of the participants in the Public Service Officer Work Placement Program in the Republic of Singapore, Cohort 2. Furthermore, the study also looks at reorganizing the current working days from Monday to Thursday and Saturday to a more suitable schedule.
At the same time, the role of digital technology is crucial in empowering and facilitating the general public to subscribe to government services, as evidenced during the COVID-19 experience where core services in government agencies could be managed continuously with manpower deployment at a minimal level and fully utilize technology in service delivery.
Regarding the restructuring of working days from Monday to Thursday and Saturday to a more suitable schedule, it aims to encourage work-life balance. This also aligns with the priority of related action plans supporting initiatives to preserve mental health, including among public service employees. Concerning the status of this initiative, in principle, it has the potential to be implemented subject to further evaluation and assessment at the Public Service Transformation Committee level.
Regarding monitoring and actions to ensure excellence in service delivery, the strategic deployment of manpower is crucial for implementing flexible working hours, particularly to ensure that core services are not disrupted.
That's what kaola can deliver, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, and thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The seventh question is from Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee directed at Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. For the next question, thank you to Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee who is always attentive to digital developments, especially regarding Artificial Intelligence in this country. In response to Yang Berhormat’s question, as mentioned earlier, the ministry is drafting the Digital Brunei Transformation Plan as a continuation and ongoing effort towards realizing a Smart Nation vision. This also includes Brunei Darussalam's approach to the potential and transformative capabilities of Artificial Intelligence.
Therefore, stakeholder engagement is being conducted to ensure various aspects related to digitalization and AI are considered and integrated into the effort of drafting a comprehensive Digital Brunei Transformation Plan. This approach aims to produce a comprehensive, inclusive, and relevant national reference plan in line with the needs and aspirations of the country towards technology and digital innovation-based development.
Based on the preliminary assessment conducted by the ministry together with AITI and key commercial entities through the preparation of the Digital Brunei Transformation Plan, the government now has a strategic opportunity to leverage AI in Brunei Darussalam. In achieving the Digital Brunei agenda, the government has the opportunity to adopt a balanced approach in building the AI ecosystem and its strategic location. This approach should not be limited solely to the use of AI but should also be expanded to empower the country's capabilities in AI production and throughout the AI value chain.
This includes the development of AI infrastructure such as an AI Data Centre and the development and training of human resources in the field of AI. In this regard, a workshop involving various stakeholders including government agencies and the industrial sector will be held this August in preparation for the Digital Brunei Transformation Plan which will encompass the AI ecosystem for both the use and production of AI.
In connection with this, the government has no objections to the use of AI to assist civil servants in carrying out their daily tasks to enhance public sector productivity. Through the existing infrastructure, the government, through the National E-Government Centre, has started implementing licensing for Microsoft 365 services on a pilot basis to test feasibility and assess suitability of usage in the current environment.
In addition, the construction of a powerful AI Powered Information Assistant, such as a chatbot, is also proposed to facilitate government personnel in obtaining necessary information and documents through the government's intranet portal, thereby increasing operational efficiency. This is an initial step in implementing transformation to help public sector organizations modernize operations, improve service delivery, and enhance transparency while ensuring compliance with data protection.
In fulfilling this role, AITI will continue to implement initiatives such as issuing guidelines regarding the Personal Data Protection Order to ensure data protection compliance through the adoption of best practices and data protection procedures in their respective organizations.
In June 2025, AITI issued a Guide On Appointment Of Data Protection Officer and a Guide on Developing And Data Protection Management Programme. In addition, in April 2025, AITI also shared guidelines on governance and ethics of Artificial Intelligence, AI, for Brunei Darussalam. The purpose of these guidelines is to guide organizations involved in forming, developing, and using AI considering the complexity of technology and the risks related to AI systems. In line with this role, to support any planning toward the development and design of secure in-house generative AI tools, this process must be guided by the principles of data protection by design. This principle emphasizes responsible practices in any collection, use, disclosure, and processing of personal data, both for AI use among civil servants and in the private sector. That is shared, Yang Berhormat Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The next question is from Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin directed to Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Thank you again, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Kaola would like to express gratitude to Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin regarding the question on the involvement of the Anti-Corruption Bureau as an independent panel member in determining government tender procurements.
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (BMR) is a law enforcement agency responsible for preventing and combating corruption crimes in Brunei Darussalam. BMR is given full authority under the Anti-Corruption Act (Chapter 131) to investigate any offenses related to corruption, whether in the public or private sector. BMR is also responsible for reviewing and evaluating the systems or procedures of identified public bodies that may open up loopholes for corrupt behavior and suggesting improvements to prevent corruption. In addition to the investigation function, BMR also plays an essential role in raising public awareness about the dangers of corruption and fostering values of integrity and accountability through anti-corruption education programs, lectures, workshops, and roadshows.
In 2022, BMR also implemented a training of trainers program aimed at providing basic training to focal officers in departments, ministries, and Government-Linked Companies (GLC) so that focal officers can play a role in enhancing the integrity level in their agencies and assist department heads in identifying issues that need action that can be referred back to BMR for assistance.
Regarding involvement in government procurement processes, BMR is not currently involved as an independent panel member in evaluating or making decisions related to government tender procurements. This is due to considerations to preserve BMR’s position as an independent enforcement agency and to avoid potential perceptions of conflict of interest, particularly if there are complaints related to corruption that may need to be investigated from any aspect of the procurement. However, if BMR receives complaints related to misconduct or offenses in the tender procurement process involving offenses under the Anti-Corruption Act (Chapter 131), BMR has the authority to conduct investigations into the case.
That is all kaola can convey, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The ninth question is from Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee also directed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Regarding progress in digitalization and preparedness for AI integration also raised by Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee.
It is noted that the success of digital transformation is not merely dependent on the use of technology alone but also on the ability to improve process efficiency and provide customer satisfaction. Although paper usage is not directly monitored, digitalization plays a crucial role in reducing paper dependency and accelerating processes.
Accordingly, we are continuously reducing paper usage through the implementation of new shared services such as Form BN and SpeRe. The Records Management System Project, SpeRe, is a digital initiative by the National E-Government Centre, EGNC, under the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications as one of the projects under the Twelfth Development Plan.
It aims to develop a secure, accessible record management system to promote collaboration and information sharing. The project encompasses application development, document digitization, policy guidance, training, and process improvement. The initial phase involves two ministries, the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Meanwhile, the Form BN project is a Digital Form Builder Platform specifically for government agencies. Form BN is developed to replace manual paper-based form processes that can be used by government officers with valid government active directory credentials. This directly increases the amount of internal and external digital government services.
As previously informed, through the existing infrastructure, the government, through the National E-Government Centre, has also initiated licensing of Microsoft 365 services on a pilot basis to test feasibility and assess its suitability in the current environment, especially for public sector use.
At the same time, the ministry is also exploring potential uses of technology such as Generative AI, including the internal use of Microsoft Copilot. This matter will also be reviewed in the preparation of the Digital Brunei Transformation Plan and subsequently discussed with all ministries.
Based on monitoring by the National E-Government Centre, several government services have been made available online through the gov.bn platform. As of June 2025, a total of 86 government systems have been developed and 253 services can be accessed through the platform. Regarding the provision of government services accessible via mobile applications, there are 21 applications including TransportBN, BruHealth, Blood Card, and Mengalinga. In terms of implementing digital transformation projects under the 12th National Development Plan, I am happy to share that 103 digital transformation projects submitted by ministries and higher learning institutions have been discussed and supported according to the procedures of the Chief Information Officer Forum meeting.
Since 2022, the CIO Forum meetings have discussed the processes and governance for submitting digital transformation projects under the 12th National Development Plan, where projects must seek support from the CIO Forum meeting. The success of government digitalization is not merely assessed by the number of digitized systems or percentage of digital achievements. Rather, it is more towards a holistic approach and reliance on several factors, including overall digitalization processes, end-to-end digitalization.
Process improvement and change management management and monitoring. If systems fail to consider or address these factors effectively, they are likely to create more inefficiencies in the long run. Therefore, ongoing measures have been implemented to strengthen the implementation of projects under each ministry through improvements to the Project Management Framework mandated to be used to enhance project governance in digital transformation projects.
Several initiatives and briefings to ministries regarding the Project Management Framework workshop and government shared services have also been carried out by the National E-Government Centre in 2024.
The briefing was held to share information with project managers to develop understanding of the framework to ensure government digital transformation projects are executed perfectly and orderly. Meanwhile, the agency also conducted a Business Process Improvement pilot workshop with one ministry in November 2024 aiming to improve the existing business process.
Due to the encouraging response from the workshop results, there are plans to continue the workshop for all ministries targeting business users and government service process owners. The preparation of this workshop is intended not only to support the digitization of government services through existing process improvements but also as a stepping stone for a proactive and strategic approach in implementing change management.
That is shared, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The tenth question is from Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin, also directed to Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri. Apologies, it seems Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee would like to add to her question. Please go ahead.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. My question is very simple. Kaola just wants clarification from Yang Berhormat Menteri on what percentage is the current progress in digitalization. I would like to know the percentage number. That's all. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. At the moment, I do not have a percentage number, but what is shared are the numbers of total systems, but the percentage of all government services digitized is something I may need to return to the Council to provide that statistic.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The next question is from Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin directed to Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Thank you once again Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Kaola extends gratitude to Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin for the question regarding the measures to address the issue of late arrivals and early departures from work by officers and staff, alongside the SSM system or Human Resource System, and the means to prevent its manipulation by colleagues recording attendance on behalf of those not yet in the office.
Attendance and punctuality monitoring as outlined in the Prime Minister's Department Circular number 27/1984 fall under the jurisdiction and responsibility of Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments to ensure compliance with working hours. One feature in the Annual Performance Evaluation Form in the public service is discipline and work integrity, including adherence to working hours, which involves entering and exiting work, and attendance at the office or off-site. In an effort to enhance the effectiveness of monitoring the implementation of these regulations and also to prevent system manipulation, such as colleagues recording attendance for those not yet in the office, the Prime Minister's Department through the Public Service Department, JPA, will provide a mobile SSM application with verification methods utilizing biometric technology, including facial recognition.
Additionally, other plans include using two-factor authentication as an added measure in the SSM attendance system. Examples include the use of fingerprint scanning and QR Code. The integration of building access systems with SSM using technologies such as Radio Frequency Identification, RFID, can also be employed as additional preventive measures.
Through SSM, there is also an attendance database that enables record tracking to be implemented. This information will subsequently assist in making analyses and identifying the overall attendance of public service staff. That concludes what kaola has to convey, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Thank you, Your Honourable Members. The question time has concluded, and we now move on to the next agenda of the meeting.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Debate on the Brunei Vision 2035 Proposal.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. The debate on the Brunei Vision 2035 Proposal continues, and without further ado, I invite Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir.
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh dan salam sejahtera.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Kaola extends gratitude for the speech by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam in ensuring the successful implementation of the work and goals towards becoming a developed nation by 2023. Additionally, His Majesty also emphasized addressing emerging global issues through a cohesive national approach.
In this era of globalization and rapidly evolving technology, one of the biggest challenges we face is the emerging global issues related to the digital revolution and Artificial Intelligence, AI. This change is not temporary but a profound and ongoing transformation of the economic and social structure. Among the primary challenges are: First, the drastic shift in job types. Many conventional jobs are now being replaced by automation and smart technology, directly changing the labor market demand where technical and digital skills are prioritized. Second, the digital divide. Those without access to technology or the internet are at risk of being left behind, especially in remote areas or among low-income households. This inequality will continue to widen if inclusive measures are not taken; and Third, the need for new skills. There is an urgent need to develop a digitally literate workforce, capable of solving complex problems and adapting to future technologies. This includes skills in AI, data science, cybersecurity, and digital system design.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. If these challenges are not addressed with clear strategies, they can undermine the three main goals of Brunei Vision 2035, namely: First, An Educated and Highly Skilled People. Youth without retraining or digital education opportunities will lag in the global job market. Second, A Dynamic and Resilient Economy. Without adapting to the digital economy, the country will lose competitiveness and strategic investment opportunities; and Third, A High Quality of Life. Lagging in technology can contribute to increasing social and economic inequalities. This includes efforts to introduce and implement a comprehensive Digital Transformation Plan towards a fully digital system in both the public and private sectors.
This transformation is not only aimed at enhancing the efficiency of public service delivery but also in driving the country's digital economic growth aligned with the demands of the Industrial Revolution 4.0 and current global market needs. Steps that can be taken include: First, the digitization of work processes, known as e-Government. Providing more user-friendly, fast, and transparent online work services to enhance service efficiency to the people. Second, automation and intelligence in data management. Utilizing technology such as AI and Big Data to aid in decision-making based on data in the public sector and private businesses. Third, enhancing digital sustainability in public services. Training government and private staff with basic and advanced digital skills to avoid technological gaps in the implementation of New systems. Fourth, Public-Private Partnership, PPP in digital innovation. Encouraging private sector participation in the development of local digital platform applications and infrastructure to support this transformation; and Fifth, guarantee cybersecurity. Ensuring that all developed digital systems are equipped with strict security controls to protect citizen and national data.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
With the implementation of this Digital Transformation Plan, Brunei Darussalam will not only be more prepared to face global challenges but also accelerate the achievement of Brunei Vision 2035 in building a competitive, innovative, and resilient society in the digital future.
Steps towards total digitization in both public and private sectors align with the strategic objectives and policy direction of the Social Blueprint Negara Brunei Darussalam, particularly in efforts to empower social development through national education. This effort is not solely focused on service delivery efficiency but also acts as a catalyst for: First, social and economic innovation within the country. Second, digital transformation plays a significant role in stimulating local innovation, creating new jobs, and strengthening a more sustainable and competitive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Third, inclusive and secure approaches. This transformation is executed inclusively, ensuring no groups are left behind, especially rural residents, youth, seniors, and vulnerable individuals. Simultaneously, cybersecurity and personal data protection must be prioritized in every digital initiative; and Fourth, supporting the Smart Nation aspiration. Through collaboration between various parties, government, private sector, educational institutions, and the community, we can build Brunei as a Smart Nation, which is not only advanced in technology but also wise in its use, ethical, and providing comprehensive benefits to the citizens.
Therefore, it is crucial to proceed confidently guided by national policies and aspirations so that this digital transformation becomes a primary driver of social, economic development, and the well-being of the citizens, bringing us closer to the achievement of Brunei Vision 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The Digital Transformation Plan not only focuses on the digitization of systems and services but also emphasizes local product innovation as an essential component in driving national economic growth. The focus is on local product innovation, with efforts aimed at: First, enhancing local industry productivity. Digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) automation and data analysis enable local entrepreneurs to increase production efficiency, reduce operational costs, and add value to their products. Second, broadening marketability domestically and globally through the digitization that local entrepreneurs can penetrate international markets via e-commerce, global platforms, and digital promotion, making Made in Brunei products known and trusted.
Third, sustaining innovative product development. This approach will also encourage research and development (R&D) in creating high-quality, sustainable, and competitive products; and Fourth, nurturing digital entrepreneurs. Youth and emerging businesses will be encouraged to generate creative ideas, such as innovation in agriculture, food, services, and technology through incubators, grants, and empowerment programs.
Ultimately, this comprehensive Digital Transformation Plan will provide extensive opportunities for Brunei citizens, especially youth and MSMEs, to compete globally while maintaining identity and quality of local products. This is what we aspire to build an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economy, thereby contributing directly to achieving Brunei Vision 2035. With that, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua Majlis Mesyuarat Negara​
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Daud bin Jihan.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Daud bin Jihan​
Alhamdulillah. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pehin Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. (Prayer recited).
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh and greetings of peace.
First and foremost, kaola would like to extend the highest appreciation and gratitude to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for allowing kaola to partake in debating the motion presented by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Department and the Second Minister of Defence, concerning Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Alhamdulillah, significant progress has been achieved through the three Blueprints endorsed by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam. These Blueprints are the Manpower Blueprint, Social Blueprint, and Economic Blueprint.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Among the economic progress attained is the effort to reduce dependence on the oil and gas sector through diversification, such as in the petrochemical industry, evidenced by Brunei Methanol Company, and the development of logistics manufacturing and financial services sectors. In terms of education and youth, the SPN21 curriculum reform, the improvement in PISA scores, and youth engagement events like coffee talks have been significant. Regarding healthcare and quality of life, the first liver transplant surgery was successfully performed on February 1, 2025.
These successes are due to the concerted commitment of various stakeholders. They contribute to part of the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035. However, challenges still exist. One of them is that the majority of the population is still unaware or not directly involved with the vision. A survey indicates that 95 percent of Bruneians do not understand Wawasan Brunei 2035. They can name it but do not know its meaning.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
According to the Social Blueprint document, the guiding principle of the Social Blueprint is seen from the comprehensive ecosystem encompassing Wawasan Brunei 2035, the Majlis Kebangsaan Isu Sosial, MKIS, and international commitments aligned with the main principles of Maqasid Syariah. This Social Blueprint supports the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035 with strategic goals in line with the national achievements identified under the second goal of Wawasan Brunei 2035, which is the high quality of life for citizens. The Majlis Kebangsaan Isu Sosial plays an important role in identifying and addressing social issues in the country. The Majlis Kebangsaan Isu Sosial has identified 12 major issues viewed on a national scale, namely poverty, inadequate housing, unemployment, social security, societal mentality, immoral activities, crime prevention, senior citizens, people with disabilities (OKU), family institutions, women, and children.
The action plans under the committees of MPS to address these social issues are also consistent, coordinated with the aspirations of the Social Blueprint, including in the provision of policies, acts, or programs involving various leading agencies and membership from their respective agencies.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola wishes to discuss one of the 12 major issues mentioned earlier, which is poverty. In support of the Wawasan Brunei 2035’s goal to enhance the quality of life for citizens and realize the aspiration of zero poverty, kaola would like to pose a question that I believe is also of interest to relevant agencies and the general public. To this day, our country still does not have an official definition and measurement of poverty that can be used as a national benchmark. The absence of a uniform guideline complicates efforts to objectively identify those who truly need assistance and at the same time evaluate the effectiveness of welfare programs and social support that have been designed and implemented.
It should be noted that this matter was planned at the foundational level as early as 2011, where there was a proposal to develop a poverty line based on findings from the national household expenditure survey; however, after more than a decade, this poverty line is yet to be finalized. The question arises as to what are the main challenges preventing this from being realized, and what are the next steps being planned to complete this important effort?
In this regard, kaola suggests that relevant agencies consider the need to develop a national poverty benchmark not only based on income but also considering basic capability aspects. Access to essential services and overall quality of life.
Kaola also believes that implementing this initiative will be more effective if carried out with multi-party cooperation, whole of nation, including village heads as grassroots monitors, as currently done to ensure more equitable, transparent, and effective distribution of assistance, and likewise in supporting the Wawasan Brunei 2035 goal to enhance the quality of life for citizens and to realize the aspiration of zero poverty. That is all, may it be beneficial. Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad Ali bin Tanjong.
Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad Ali bin Tanjong​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, honoured Members of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara. Kaola extends gratitude to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for giving kaola the opportunity to join fellow members in fully supporting the motion on Wawasan Brunei 2035 proposed by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Department and the Second Minister of Defence, on Monday, August 4, 2025.
Wawasan Brunei 2035 is an idea from Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, which is not only an aspiration but a clear direction to ensure that our country becomes a developed nation with highly educated citizens, a high quality of life, and a sustainable and dynamic economy. His Majesty emphasized that Vision 2035 is not just a long-term plan but a major mandate that must be implemented by all parties. The government is the primary driver in realizing this vision.
However, true success depends on comprehensive cooperation between the government, the private sector, the public, grassroots leaders, and the citizens. With less than 10 years left to reach the target year, we must honestly assess how prepared we are to face the challenges and realize the stated goals.
Wawasan Brunei 2035 sets out three main objectives: First, Highly Educated and Skilled Citizens. This objective aims to produce citizens who are educated, knowledgeable, and highly skilled in various professional and technical fields. This is essential to meet the needs of the modern economic sector and enhance the nation's competitiveness globally. Second, Quality Standard of Living. The government is committed to improving the quality of life for citizens through quality development in health systems, education, housing, social services, and safety. This includes efforts to guarantee a clean, healthy, and safe environment, as well as a balanced life both physically and spiritually; and Third, a Dynamic and Sustainable National Economy. In an economic context, this vision targets sustainable and diverse economic growth, not reliant solely on the oil and gas sector, with an emphasis on developing other economic sectors like modern agriculture, tourism, Islamic financial services, creative industries, and information technology.
As a grassroots leader interacting directly with the people, I personally observe their challenges and needs. I am determined to continue being a bridge between the government and the people, ensuring policies and development programs implemented truly and beneficially impact the community. Among the roles to be fulfilled is focusing on social welfare and housing facilities for the citizens.
The task of a grassroots leader is to ensure the well-being and safety of residents is constantly safeguarded through managing and coordinating information about citizens eligible for assistance so that aid is delivered fairly, promptly, and accurately. No citizen should be left behind in the development flow. Being a liaison between welfare agencies and citizens needing assistance, whether in terms of housing, children's education, health, or other needs.
Organizing Gotong Royong Programs and Visits to the Elderly and community support to foster social care values. Regarding safety, working closely with enforcement and security agencies such as the Royal Brunei Police in maintaining peace in the district and village. Establishing a culture of mutual awareness and care among neighbors through the Village Neighborhood Watch Program. Quickly reporting any suspicious activities or social threats like drug abuse, baby dumping, and others.
Regarding citizens' welfare, ensuring they have access to basic amenities like clean water, electricity, roads, health centers, and education. Continuously voicing the needs and issues of the citizens to the authorities constructively. Encouraging citizens' participation in village development activities so they feel a sense of ownership towards their community's progress. Focusing on the economic sector, which is a crucial pillar in implementing Wawasan Brunei 2035. Brunei's economy still heavily relies on oil and gas revenues, subject to global market price fluctuations. Government steps have encouraged non-oil sectors like tourism technology, modern agriculture, and the digital economy. Efforts are actively underway to develop new sustainable sectors like the halal industry, tourism, and the digital economy.
Promoting both foreign and domestic investors. Brunei must become an investor-friendly destination by strengthening business infrastructure, speeding up the licensing process, and improving the entrepreneurial ecosystem to attract more foreign investors and encourage the growth of local businesses. Increasing local workforce by focusing on skill enhancement and technical training so more locals can join the private sector and play an active role in the country's economic development.
Grassroots leaders such as penghulus, village heads, and members of the village consultative council play pivotal roles in promoting village economies, encouraging and guiding village-based economic projects such as handicrafts, modern agriculture, fisheries, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The 1K1P program is not just about products but symbolizes the strength and potential of the village community. With a comprehensive, inclusive, and strategic approach, we are confident that more participants can emerge, contributing directly to the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Let's all together support, guide, and open up opportunities widely for citizens to contribute to national development through 1K1P. By implementing these strategies, the 1K1P program will not only provide an entrepreneurial platform but also reduce rural poverty, contribute to the nation's economic diversification, strengthen identity and pride in local products, and generate inclusive and comprehensive economic growth. The 1K1P products are often only sold at expos or physical stalls, limiting the market. Proposals for dedicated buildings easily accessible to everyone in all districts are hoped to be synergistically supported between the government, private sector, NGOs, and village residents. This is crucial for 1K1P to become a pillar of the nation’s socio-economic advancement by 2035 and beyond. It is undeniable that the government has strived to enhance its effectiveness, and what is hoped is resilience, sustainability. The success of this vision is not sufficient if it only reaches 2035. It must build a strong and enduring foundation for future generations.
To conclude, I want to extend the highest appreciation to the government and all involved in drafting and implementing Wawasan Brunei 2035, a very important long-term development plan for the future of our country. With the cooperation of the citizens, local leaders are capable of making Wawasan Brunei 2035 a reality that is not only achieved but firmly inherited. That is all. Wabillahit taufik walhidayah assalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members, with our chamber being quite cold, I propose that we adjourn our meeting for 15 minutes to allow for a brief rest, and insha'Allah we will hear from other members to further debate the proposed motion.
(The meeting is briefly adjourned)
(The meeting resumes)
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Your Honourable Members, let us resume our debate on the Wawasan Brunei 2035 motion, and now I invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan to begin the debate.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim (prayer recited). Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Firstly, kaola would like to express the highest appreciation and gratitude to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the opportunity given to kaola to deliver a speech in this esteemed chamber.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, before kaola begins kaola's debate, kaola wishes to request for a correction referring to the rules of the meeting, specifically Rule 12(5) which relates to assumptions and not based on facts or correct information.
In this connection, kaola is pleased to request that the statement made during the debate on the Brunei Vision 2035 Motion by Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin which states, for example: "what is the meaning of academic achievement if 1000 to 1500 students leave school each year still unable to read and count well?" referring to the Official Record, Hansard, Second Session of the 21st Session on the first day, pages 28 to 29, be corrected or possibly retracted.
This is based on the ministry’s findings that the facts and information provided do not have reliable data sources and it is feared this could mislead the public. This matter also contradicts the reliable data available within the ministry's records. This is because, based on the assessment of students' literacy skills through the student learning survey or SLS conducted by the Ministry of Education from January to February 2025, 94 percent of students who were in Year 9 last year have literacy proficiency in Band 5 and above. Meanwhile, in the same assessment, the highest number of students still in Band 1 recorded is 195 or 5 percent of Year 1 students.
According to the results of the Brunei Cambridge GCE ‘O’ level assessment in 2024, of the total number of students who did not obtain credits in all subjects, 755 out of 888 students or 93 percent still managed to achieve a passing level in some subjects sat. This indirectly shows that these students still have at least a minimal level of literacy and numeracy to answer exam questions. In 2023, 740 out of 789 students were in this category, which is 94 percent.
Even if we assume that students who obtain grade 9 or ungraded in all subjects taken cannot read and cannot count well, then in 2024 only 56 students or 7 percent of students are in this category and not 1000 to 1500 as stated.
Kaola is also interested in the approach of Maslow’s theory in education which has been referred to by Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin in his Motion. Maslow's hierarchy of needs is still widely used in education but received various modern criticisms. Among the main criticisms is that human needs do not necessarily have to be fulfilled sequentially because they are dynamic and influenced by internal and external factors. Therefore, this hierarchy needs to be viewed from a context that is more relevant to the 21st century, including lifestyle changes, technological developments, and the needs of the current education system. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
How did Yang Berhormat come up with the figures Yang Berhormat mentioned?
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
For your information, the data kaola presented were analyzed from data collected from published data including MOE published exam results announcement and MOE education statistics 2018, tracking success progress of PSR 2013 cohort, 6 thousand students and PSR 2015 cohort, 6453 students who passed the PSR certificate to the O level and those who entered A level, ITB and Polytechnic. Maybe the narrative kaola wants to convey here is the narrative that there are students leaving school who are still not able to read and count well.
Kaola might have omitted the definition, functional illiteracy which is meant as the lack of ability to use reading, writing and counting skills at a level that allows them to function effectively in life. The word is functional illiteracy which might have been left out when kaola stated the definition of underprivileged students and if this is the reason for the dissatisfaction of MOE and educational officers, kaola apologizes but it was not the intention to mislead but to show that from the data published with the cohort of 2012 and PSR 20, eh, 2023, PSR 2015 that is the analysis we reached that more than 1,000 and up to 1,400 students in that year could not proceed beyond ‘O’ Level. That is from the data that peramba collected.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
I am also not convinced by the statement made by Yang Berhormat earlier because it is not possible, what's it called, the deduction made by Yang Berhormat that the students, what’s it called, are said to be unable to read, write or count until they reach or sit for the ‘O' Level exam.
I think it is not, what’s it called, not a generalisation but a situation that perhaps surprises all of us. So that deduction, it's not true.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin​
If that's the case, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, kaola wishes to be allowed to retract the statement but to state that there is a handful of students who are still less proficient than the quota from the figure kaola quoted, from 1,000 to 1,500 we use the quoted figure that has been, that will be audited, if possible audited by the ministry to determine how many actually drop out without qualification because mandatory education forces those who continue to study if although it is known their ability to achieve 'O' Level is less because mandatory education forces them to sit for exams and if they are given the opportunity to be informed early that they will not succeed, alternative routes to provide them with skills and vocational endeavours before they reach 18 years of age, ah, as before taking 'O' Level.
If so, kaola requests permission and grace to retract the figure kaola quoted and use the audited figure that is appropriate to show that there are students who have slipped through. Request the consent of Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Thank you. As someone who has been involved in, what’s it called, the field of education, I think whatever cohort we are discussing certainly children even though perhaps we acknowledge that their intellectual capacity is different or their intellectual development, actual intelligence may differ, but once they enter school they are certainly educated or, observed by the relevant teachers and we have standards or we have mechanisms whereby the children concerned are determined the levels of their ability to take an exam. It is not possible for me to accept that a student taking an exam like the O Level does not know how to read, write or count.
I think our colleague on the left (laughs slightly) will also acknowledge this situation because he has also been involved in the field of education, isn’t it. Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin.
Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin​
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Throughout kaola's career, indeed in the field of education. We already have, what’s it called, a policy that children from primary school until Year 5, now it is, Year what ah, Year 10 perhaps ah there is no retention system Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Even if they are not proficient in the 3R, they are continued, there is no retention. So there is also a possibility that these children do not have the basic 3M but are continued. It's just that if for example the children are weak in the 3R, there should be recovery remedial classes at that time and perhaps they have other abilities Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, because if we test using the same test.
For example, someone proficient in swimming and someone climbing a tree, what’s it ah, the result is not the same. Some may fail, some may not.
So perhaps the methods of child evaluation need transformation, not necessarily pencil and test or test, ah, memory. But for example, if kaola in lower grade, if the multiplication table, up to 12, Year 1 had memorized those Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. But there are children now who haven't memorized it.
So maybe, that’s it maybe, re-evaluate the pedagogy teaching method and assessment. I, kaola am not, what’s it called, actually kaola and Yang Berhormat Haji Salleh Bostaman just tried to track-lah children from primary school starting from 2013 or 2015 and followed how there were those who failed to achieve, did not obtain 'O' Level bah Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua so perhaps that’s...
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
I understand that, but perhaps the standard is, as stated by Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan himself, that there are children who enter, what's it called, the ‘O’ Level exam possibly lacking the capacity or ability to answer questions correctly or accurately from the ‘O’ Level exam but it does not mean that the student concerned does not know how to read, write or count. That’s what it isn't. Because what about the gap between they leave Year 5, year what was it earlier, PSR up to and from Year 10, there are certainly measures that we determine that the children are given, ah, help by the relevant teachers.
So even though I myself perhaps also Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali, our information on this is, what’s it…a bit out of date because they know more and know better about what is done by them but I believe that even during our time, even during our time it is not possible, for any child to enter ‘O’ Level with blank knowledge of not able to read, to write and to do simple calculation because we have instituted help all along for the children who can't catch up even though we acknowledge they may be weak but we try to provide them with as much ability as possible to at least achieve grade 10 or grade 11 in the relevant examination. But even then, we acknowledge that it is impossible for them not to know the question at all.
Unless we come up with, I am sorry to say lah, but unless we come up with a stupid fool. Even that is a very unfair judgement on my part, there is no child that should be considered as a stupid fool because every child has got that capability, every child...because perhaps Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin will remember that when we introduced SPN21, our main aim is to ensure that every child no matter who they are, what they are, should be able to shine and able in whatever capacity that they can and we should be able to help them, that is our aim.
Anyway, so I hope (small laugh), I am so sorry, I am also very passionate about this because I have been involved in this field and I feel that I have to stand up to support Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr. Dayang Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Md. Salleh’s, Menteri Pendidikan’s stand.
So I am glad that Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin has withdrawn his remarks. Proceed Datin.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
Thank you very much, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the support.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, please allow kaola to continue my argument for the debate on Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Alhamdulillah, in less than a decade, Negara Brunei Darussalam will step into the year 2035, a year that is so significant because it marks an important moment in measuring how far the country's aspirations through Wawasan Brunei 2035 have been achieved. In this nearing period, the education sector plays a very important role in realizing the three main goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
The first goal of Wawasan Brunei 2035 is to produce educated, highly skilled, and successful citizens. To achieve this goal, two national achievements have been set and have been translated more specifically through six National Key Performance Indicators or NPKI. A Manpower Blueprint for Human Capital Development has been produced which serves as an important foundation in planning and coordinating the national human capital development to align with the real needs of the job market.
Therefore, these NKPIs will continue to be monitored for their suitability to ensure they remain relevant and responsive to the challenges and priorities of current and future development. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members, efforts to achieve the target for this goal have actually been stimulated through an educational system that has led to major changes. The Sistem Pendidikan Negara Abad ke-21 or SPN21, introduced in 2008, has mapped and contributed to educational development through strategic initiatives, so what are the major changes brought by SPN21.
SPN21 brings three main changes. The first is the structure of the education system, restructuring the provision of learning pathways that are responsive to the abilities and inclinations of students as well as the job market. This is what was shared by Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua earlier, known as multiple pathways. The second change is curriculum and assessment. This change involves updating the content and methods of teaching to focus more on the development of 21st-century skills ensuring students are resilient and successful in the era of emerging technologies. The third change is the transformation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training, TVET, by creating a more dynamic and industry-oriented TVET system in line with the country's economic needs.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola/I still remember my experience as a student where in a debate competition there will be proponents and also opponents. But today in this honorable chamber, Alhamdulillah, we are all proponents where we all have one purpose, one motion to jointly achieve Wawasan Brunei 2035. Many recommendations have been shared, there are also initiatives that will, are, and have been implemented, good questions, evidence of wisdom, shared concerns, we feel, brainstorming, we need cooperation and support to achieve success. Thus, based on these views and recommendations, kaola, I will share the achievement initiatives and challenges on the journey towards Wawasan 2035 specifically for the first goal. Let us reflect on this sharing together.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
In line with the observations and recommendations of Your Honourable Members and since the introduction of SPN21, the Ministry of Education through four strategic plans has prioritized the following initiatives. The first initiative is strengthening learning and teaching through programs like school-based assessment for learning, literacy, and numeracy guidance programs, blended learning support. The second initiative is the provision of relevant and inclusive curriculum and assessment including special education and early childhood education. The third initiative is professional development programs for school leaders or SLP and educators. This initiative has resulted in the percentage of teachers achieving grade 4 and above rising from 20.99% in 2020 to 44.4% in 2024; and the fourth initiative is the teacher recruitment program. The evaluation, selection, and support process for recruiting educators have been updated through the Immersion Program and Apprenticeship Program as well as the initial teacher preparation offered by Institut Pendidikan Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, SHBIE, which has been upgraded to a master's level which is the Master of Teaching introduced in 2009.
The fifth initiative is the Teaching Service Scheme, SPG, and Public Higher Education Institution Service Scheme, SPTA. The Teaching Service Scheme, SPG, was enforced on June 1, 2008, and the Academic Service Scheme, SPTA was introduced in 2014 to grant recognition to educators to enhance the level of professionalism. The sixth initiative is strengthening education infrastructure towards a conducive, sustainable, and digital learning environment. Improvements made include facility management infrastructure management, construction, and enhancements of education infrastructure, digital transformation, school network infrastructure upgrade, and green infrastructure and sustainable education projects.
The seventh initiative is the provision of education frameworks for various learning approaches like the special education framework, financial literacy, early childhood education, learning support, blended learning, Brunei Darussalam qualifications framework, BDQF, and others. The eighth initiative is providing programs that meet industry needs such as offering incubation programs and entrepreneurship startup support, practical training or internship programs, career workshops, the adoption of AI, AR and VR, and modern technology for individual and practical learning, and adapting the TVET Program to industry needs. The tenth initiative is internationalization or globalization and student mobility such as cross-agency collaboration and community platform with ASEAN for mobility and alignment and active involvement in regional and international networks and organizations like ASEM, ICESCO, SEAMEO, UNESCO, and STEPon.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Thanks be to Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala after almost two decades of our journey in realizing the aspiration for achieving Goal 1 through the implementation of the 21st-century education system or SPN21, here are some achievements. First, the academic achievements of students. Kaola I refer to the question by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman on Monday, August 4, regarding student achievements.
The findings from the analysis of the combination of 4 student skill assessments or psychometric assessments namely The National Study of Student Competencies in Mathematics and English and CME conducted in 2008. NASC or National Assessment of Student Competencies 2014, Student Assessment Tracker, SAT 2018, and Student Learning Survey, SLS from 2021 to 2024, showed an increase in student skill performance from 2008 to 2024 for the English Language literacy domain. This increase is very significant from 59 percent of year 4 students reaching the minimum skill level or Basic Literacy Skills in 2008, this percentage increased to 99 percent in 2024. Even more pleasing, the number at the independent reader level also increased from 4 percent in 2008 to 44 percent in 2024. For year 6 students, there was also an increase in student skills at the Emerging Independent Readers and Independent Readers levels from 57 percent in 2008 to 99 percent in 2024.
In addition, data analysis also found a high correlation between these psychometric assessment data and student performance in PISA 2018 and PISA 2022. This data triangulation further reinforced the validation of the student performance assessment findings. The main advantage of using these psychometric assessments is that the obtained data can be compared because they use several linked items and use the same skill level scale. Moreover, this data allows the Ministry of Education to use it for longitudinal student performance tracking.
In addition, kaola on behalf of the Ministry of Education, very much appreciates and thanks the former leaders of the Ministry of Education who pioneered a very relevant assessment system still effective today to evaluate the effectiveness of the education system implementation. More than a decade has passed, this evaluation process certainly helps to assess whether the ongoing efforts have been successful or not.
For student achievement in public examinations, there is indeed a decrease in the percentage of students in the primary school assessment or PSR who achieved grades A to C in 2024. An analysis using the Rasch model found students sitting for PSR in 2024 perceived the items on the examination paper to be challenging. The interpretation of this finding is whether the items exceeded the learning level or students have not reached the expected competency or students perceived difficulty in understanding the questions. For the Brunei Cambridge GCE 'O' Level and IGCSE, the student achievement...
(Bell rings)
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
Kaola requests permission to continue my argument.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Please continue Datin.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
For the Brunei Cambridge GCE 'O' Level and IGCSE examinations, the total number of school candidates achieving at least 5 'O' Levels shows an increasing trend by 0.33 percent, from 44.69 percent in 2023 to 45.02 percent in 2024. For the Brunei Cambridge GCE 'A' Level examination, the number of school candidates achieving at least 3 'A' Levels shows an increasing trend of 7.93 percent, from 67.83 percent in 2023 to 75.76 percent in 2024.
The second achievement is University Ranking. Universiti Brunei Darussalam, UBD, and Universiti Teknologi Brunei, UTB, respectively, are ranked 75th and 134th in the QS Asia University Ranking 2025. Meanwhile, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, UNISSA, is ranked between 201 and 300 in the World University Ranking for Innovation, WURI 2025.
The third achievement is the achievement in science and innovation by students at the regional and international levels. Several innovation achievements at regional and international levels through competition programs have been achieved by students, among them the Brunei ICT Awards, BICTA, Asia-Pacific ICT Alliance Awards, APICTA, Crown Prince Creative, Innovative, Product and Technological Advancement Awards, CIPTA, World Skills Awards, and Shell Eco-Marathon.
The fourth achievement is the post-secondary enrollment rate. The achievement of post-secondary enrollment has increased from 2011 to 2024 by 41.1 percent, from 68.8 percent to 109.9 percent. The fifth achievement is the employer satisfaction level. A survey of employer satisfaction for higher education graduates shows a satisfactory rate in 2023, which is 80.2 percent. The sixth achievement is the international recognition of academic production, academic programs, and faculties also being acknowledged by international bodies such as Coursera, ABET, ACCA, AACSB, and EFMD. Meanwhile, several academic staff have been recognized as top researchers and scientists globally, winning various awards at the global level.
There is also collaboration in research with leading institutions, the overall production of academic publications at the higher education level as of March 2024 has also recorded a total of 9,859 publications with citations amounting to 124,120.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
It has been planned, and it has been implemented, Steps arranged tirelessly, Challenges and obstacles easily guided, Passion burns for your knowledge.
Behind the various achievements that have been recorded in the implementation of educational policies and initiatives, the Ministry of Education is also facing several challenges that require continuous attention and strategic, integrated action from various parties outside the education sector.
Among the identified challenges are: First, based on the combined data of 4 psychometric assessments, student achievement in numeracy skills still has not shown a significant increase compared to achievement in English language literacy. This means there is a need to review the teaching methods currently in use and explore more effective intervention programs;
The second challenge is the still limited post-secondary institutional capacity, an increasing number of those categorized as Not in Employment, Education, or Training, NEET raises concerns about the effectiveness of the transition and continuity ecosystem from schooling to post-secondary and to the workforce. However, efforts are being vigorously carried out to further expand learning opportunities to post-secondary institutions such as developing and increasing infrastructure, providing new programs, and expanding private higher education institutions.
The third challenge, the mismatch between the supply and demand of graduates with job opportunities remains a challenge as raised by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof and several other Your Honourable Members during the debate on the Wawasan 2035 proposal. In 2023, the graduate employability rate only recorded 64% within 6 months after graduation, indicating the need to strengthen the planning of higher education programs.
As an improvement step, the Ministry of Education prioritizes the development of a Labor Market Information System or LMIS alongside PPTM in line with the planning under the Manpower Blueprint. LMIS will help higher education institutes plan programs based on industry needs and up-to-date, relevant labor market information. Additionally, the Feature Analysis or FA Model approach will be used to evaluate and improve the performance of study programs continuously. The effectiveness of this model depends on the availability of comprehensive and accurate labor market data as the basis for evidence-based evaluation.
The fourth challenge, the rapid global progress also necessitates the implementation of continuous changes and skill enhancement for the workforce. As an effort to bridge the skills gap, the Ministry of Education has opened opportunities for lifelong learning through upskilling and reskilling programs. This also requires continued support from the industry in providing relevant skill programs. The fifth challenge, the shortage of trained educators in early childhood education and special education can also adversely affect and impact the provision of inclusive and holistic education in line with international standards and the teacher-to-student ratio for early childhood and special education. The Ministry of Education is drafting a recruitment process for educators while offering in-house training for existing educators in this field.
The sixth challenge, rapid technological advancements including the use of Artificial Intelligence, AI also present new challenges in embedding digital literacy skills among students and the workforce in the Ministry of Education. Alhamdulillah, the Ministry of Education is developing an AI Framework for the Education System and Generative AI Guidance for Schools. The development of this framework requires thorough observation considering the ever-evolving issues related to AI. In addition, education also strengthens education and STEAM skills to be more systematic to focus on 21st-century skills through Project Based Learning or PRBL, Inquiry-based Learning, and Problem-based Learning approaches; and
The seventh challenge, the Ministry of Education also faces challenges in ensuring the provision and effectiveness of the comprehensive implementation of educational policies, data-driven monitoring, and collaboration between various stakeholders in the education sector. In this matter, the Ministry of Education requires continued support from all parties.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Based on the achievements shared and the challenges faced, the question is, where do we stand in achieving the six national KPIs for the first goal of Wawasan Brunei 2035?
Alhamdulillah, we are now on the right track towards achieving the set goals. One of the National KPIs, which is the number of higher education institutions ranking in the top 20 percent globally and or in Asia, has achieved the target, while for the other 5 National KPIs, there is an improvement from the baseline. This shows that we are on the right trajectory. This illustrates that all efforts and initiatives implemented show a positive impact. The Ministry of Education will continue to adopt a progressive approach to remain relevant and able to contribute towards realizing Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Our journey is not yet over, and we still have many issues to resolve. In this matter, the Ministry of Education requires continuous support and cooperation from all parties. On this occasion, kaola expresses heartfelt gratitude for the contributions and involvement of all.
Knowledge accumulated throughout life, A strong identity is built;
With cooperation and successful efforts, The vision is achieved for the sake of the nation.
That's all kaola can share. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Sekian Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan. Your Honourable Members, I feel that we have discussed enough regarding this Proposal this morning.
Insya Allah, we will resume it when we convene again at 2.30 pm. Sekian, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh.
(The National Council meeting is adjourned)
(The National Council meeting resumed at 2.30 pm)
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. The National Council Meeting continues this afternoon with us proceeding with the debate on the Wawasan Brunei 2035 Proposal.
I now invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan. Please.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan​
(Prayer is read). Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh and greetings.
First, kaola would like to express appreciation to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the permission to participate in the debate on the Brunei Vision 2035 Resolution, which covers the implementation of initiatives and strategic planning by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism in supporting Vision Brunei 2035.
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism continuously supports the aims of Vision Brunei 2035 through various strategic initiatives focused on increasing productivity in key sectors and tourism, economic diversification, and sustainable development.
This includes the adoption of modern technology, strengthening production capacity, and seeking foreign investment. These initiatives also involve several important areas. First, in the agriculture sector, the Ministry strives to increase domestic food production through modern agricultural technology such as smart farming and hydroponics while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The main goal is to strengthen food security and reduce import dependence while encouraging exports. Second, in the fisheries sector, focus is given to aquaculture production and processing through sustainable methods, effective fisheries resource management, and downstream industry development. This includes promoting commercial cage fish and shrimp farming. Third, the forestry sector is managed sustainably to ensure biodiversity conservation and forest resource maintenance while exploring economic potential through non-timber forest products, carbon trading, and ecotourism.
In addition, the Ministry also plays a crucial role in advancing the tourism sector. This includes developing attractive new tourism products such as community-based tourism, ecotourism, wellness, and adventure tourism, as well as enhancing the quality of tourism services. International promotion efforts are also being carried out intensively to attract more tourists to the Nation of Brunei Darussalam.
The Ministry also establishes close cooperation with other stakeholders, including the private sector and educational institutions, to ensure the smooth and effective implementation of these initiatives. The initiatives, strategy, and programs aimed at strengthening and enhancing these industries have been detailed by kaola in kaola's comments and statements at the First Session Meeting this year. All these initiatives align with the goals of Vision Brunei 2035 to achieve a dynamic and sustainable economy and improve the quality of life for the people of Brunei.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The Ministry also encourages and strives to attract youth involvement in the agriculture and fisheries sectors through carefully planned programs such as exposure programs for potential youth entering high-tech agriculture. To date, ten series of programs have been implemented involving a total of 180 youths. Second, the Pilot Project Program. Third, the Area Addition Program. Fourth, the Youth Rice Program; and Fifth, the Youth Agripreneur Program implemented through the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood with financial institutions to design a financial loan scheme mechanism, a start-up capital specifically for youth involvement in agriculture.
In line with national KPIs to support sustainable environmental development, the Ministry continues to implement strategic initiatives integrating circular economy principles with sectors under its responsibility, including modern technology sustainable agriculture such as vertical farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics that reduce land, water, and fertilizer usage while reducing waste and allowing more efficient nutrient cycling.
Organic waste management and composting through the implementation of regenerative agriculture to produce organic fertilizers, reduce chemical fertilizer needs, and increase soil fertility. The use of the Recirculative Aquaculture System, RAS, for fish and shrimp farmers that reduces water usage and recycles fish waste while reducing environmental impact.
The utilization of fish waste by encouraging the processing of fish waste into high-value products that can reduce waste from the fisheries industry.
The use of smart technology by integrating Artificial Intelligence and eco-friendly solar energy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support environmental sustainability while driving the growth of the fisheries sector in the country. Intensifying forest conservation efforts, including protecting forest reserves, preventing illegal logging, and climate change mitigation through carbon absorption in line with the aspirations of Vision Brunei 2035 towards a Green Nation. The Ministry is also committed to strengthening biodiversity preservation and managing sustainable management through policy and strategic plans such as the National Biological Resources (Biodiversity) Policy and Strategic Plan of Action.
Lastly, developing forest-based ecotourism responsibly, generating income while promoting awareness of the importance of forest preservation. Overall, the Ministry's initiatives are proactive steps in supporting Vision Brunei 2035. By reducing waste, optimally using resources, and restoring natural ecosystems, these efforts not only protect the environment but also drive sustainable and resilient economic growth, towards a prosperous and sustainable Brunei Darussalam for future generations.
Going forward, the Ministry will continue to focus on increasing production for the domestic market through productivity improvement, while implementing export-oriented strategies to support the growth of enterprise businesses as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises. This effort also involves empowering the role of Food Competent Authorities, increasing production capacity, and standard compliance to enable recognition and accreditation in the international market.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The Ministry is also implementing various strategic initiatives to strengthen the tourism industry, one of the main sectors identified as contributing to the nation's economic generation, guided by the Tourism Industry Roadmap. Initiatives, strategies, and programs related to the strengthening of this sector have also been detailed in kaola's comments and statements during the First Session Meeting this year.
In this regard, kaola would like to share the ongoing developments being actively implemented, including firstly, promotion and marketing through strategic participation in four tourism expos and four business networking sessions in China, United Arab Emirates, Korea, and Indonesia, collaboration with international influencers to target global audiences, familiarization trips for travel agents from potential markets in Australia, India, Japan, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom focusing on niche tourism such as adventure, golf, scuba diving, collaboration with online travel platforms like Ctrips, Agoda, and Skyscanner; rebranding "Kenali Negara Kitani," with over 50 cultural, natural, and river cruise packages to boost domestic tourism. Brunei MYCE 2025, held from June to July, successfully attracted 5,000 participants through 30 events themed around Islam, the environment, technology, and current issues.
Secondly, in terms of product development. The Business-to-Business Networking Session, B2B held in May 2025 involved various industry players including MPK, tourism product providers, travel agencies, event managers, and the accommodation sector to stimulate strategic cooperation towards the development of organized and integrated tourism packages; and Thirdly, improving the quality and standard of tourism services. This includes tour guides, hotel, and restaurant services. The Ministry, in cooperation with related agencies, has implemented education and training programs to strengthen professionalism and ensure excellent service delivery.
These initiatives also support human capital development in line with economic needs and strengthen the Social Blueprint. To strengthen a sustainable and resilient tourism sector, the Ministry organized the Sustainable Economy Forum and Workshop: Naturally Brunei - Pathways to Sustainable Growth on July 17, 2025, with the ASEAN-Business Advisory Council Brunei, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and commitment to sustainable development. Also held was a workshop on Enhancing Value through Nature Tourism: Designing Sustainable Tourism Products providing practical exposure related to nature-based tourism.
To effectively coordinate and drive all sustainability efforts, the Sustainable Tourism Transformation Committee was established to identify innovations, implement practical steps, and monitor and report progress regularly, towards a more responsible, inclusive, and resilient tourism sector.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
In summary, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism plays an important role in realizing the aspirations of Vision Brunei 2035, particularly in empowering economic diversification efforts and sustainable and resilient development.
The Ministry's contribution is highly significant in achieving economic and social growth goals, including strengthening non-oil and gas sectors such as food security, tourism, and ensuring continued environmental protection. However, successful implementation depends on a whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach. This involves strong coordination and collaboration among various stakeholders.
In general, close collaboration among ministries and government agencies is essential in formulating business-friendly policies, laws, and regulations, and subsequently implementing programs and projects smoothly and efficiently. The involvement of the private sector is also crucial. The private sector is the driver and catalyst for the national economy. Through the public-private partnership model, PPP will enable the private sector, especially MSMEs, to work hand in hand with the public sector actively involved in economic development, and in turn, help drive and advance the national economy.
Moreover, foreign direct investment is also expected to provide business spin-offs for local companies and, in turn, create job opportunities for locals and community involvement, through community development programs and public awareness to ensure local communities understand and support the ministry's initiatives.
This includes grassroots involvement through MPM/MPK in economic activities proactively. (Bell rings) With the synergy of a whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach, the ministry is confident of making a significant contribution towards achieving the goals of Vision Brunei 2035, ensuring Brunei Darussalam develops as a prosperous, sustainable, and globally competitive nation, while creating job opportunities for locals.
Thank you, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim (prayer recited). Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh and peace be upon you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Kaola expresses gratitude to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for allowing kaola to participate in the debate on the Vision Brunei 2035 resolution as presented by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola agrees that efforts to strengthen strategic implementation and action plans are geared towards achieving the primary goals of Vision Brunei 2035, executed through Blueprints as outlined by Yang Berhormat Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II during the presentation of Vision Brunei 2035. The Blueprints, led by the respective ministries, require a whole-of-nation approach, especially in implementing efforts and addressing upcoming challenges.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The whole-of-nation approach is vital as it ensures coherence, effectiveness, and integration in the implementation of policies, strategies, and initiatives at the national level. It avoids duplicative efforts and ensures that each party plays a complementary role. Additionally, it nurtures a sense of responsibility and shared ownership in nation-building efforts. When the people feel that they are part of the solution, not just beneficiaries, they become more motivated to contribute towards shared success. The combination of multi-sectoral efforts with clear and unified direction will strengthen accountability, transparency, and integrity in the implementation of development projects.
In facing challenges such as pandemics, natural disasters, climate change, and others, the whole-of-nation approach enables the country to respond quickly, collectively, and effectively while strengthening national resilience. This approach is also crucial in supporting digital transformation, empowering innovation, and sustainable development as successful structural changes require comprehensive collaboration from all parties. In conclusion, the whole-of-nation approach is not merely a slogan but a strategic necessity to ensure that every effort to build the nation’s future is carried out consensually to achieve shared blessings and success.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, in implementing its strategic plan for 2023 to 2027, has coordinated efforts in supporting Vision Brunei 2035 based on three aspirations: Security and Well-being, Urban and Regional Development Transformation, and Good Governance and Quality Services. To support the first goal, the Ministry of Home Affairs has implemented various capacity-building initiatives, including introducing a competency framework for penghulus and village heads in May 2025.
This aligns with the decree of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam to create a new generation of more capable and broader-minded penghulus and village heads, especially considering that more youth are starting careers as penghulus and village heads. It is hoped that these structured training programs will shape, enhance, and practice a culture of integrity, leadership, and diligence in taking care of the well-being of the community.
Additionally, capacity-building programs, including safety and emergency training, are continuously targeted at the general public, school students, government sectors, and private sectors through the Community-Based Disaster Risk Management and School-Based Disaster Risk Management programs.
This program is the ministry's and the government’s effort to provide the community with knowledge about early action or preparation in facing emergencies and natural disasters. In 2024 alone, based on statistics received from Talian Darussalam 123, out of 1.2 million complaints received through WhatsApp, email, and phone calls to 123, over 654 thousand calls were made based on complaints received from each mukim and village community. From that number, 91 percent of complaints have been resolved by the respective government agencies. This shows the concern of penghulus and village heads and their close collaboration with the respective government agencies in ensuring the welfare of the people and residents in mukim and villages.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
To support the second goal, various infrastructure facilities, including those in mukims and villages, have been provided, upgraded, and repaired. For example, from 2022 to 2025, improvement works on bridges in Kampung Ayer and raising road levels, whether frequently flooded or damaged, modifying and providing markets and stalls to become more conducive and customer/tourist-friendly, and many other infrastructures have been provided and repaired by the government in ensuring that every resident has access to basic facilities like clean water supply, electricity, and so on.
Speaking of the welfare of the people and residents, cleanliness campaigns, whether initiated and managed by Mukim and Kampung Consultative Councils, Municipal Departments, and District Departments, continue to be intensified. It is also important for kaola to stress that the continuous efforts of the government in maintaining public toilets or other facilities for public use require cooperation from users in jointly maintaining cleanliness and prudent use of the facilities provided.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
To strengthen the well-being of local workers and provide job opportunities to local youth, the Ministry of Home Affairs, through the Labour Department, has required every company wishing to hire foreign workers to provide a clearance letter from the Brunei Employment Centre before their Foreign Worker License application is considered.
The policy requiring the clearance letter is aimed at encouraging local entrepreneurs and companies to prioritize local youth before employing foreign workers and subsequently help companies achieve optimal localization. This matter has often been questioned in this august Chamber as to why so many foreign nationals dominate business fields such as retail, and so forth.
Pleased to share in this august Chamber, where according to information from the Employer and Employee Census as of April 1, 2024, the number of companies engaged in retail in the country is 1,444, with a workforce of 14,351 people. Of that number, 6,001 are local workers, while 8,350 are foreign workers.
In terms of ownership, all retail shops are owned by locals. However, a part of them, namely 475 companies, have joint ownership with foreigners. This issue has been conveyed by kaola in this august Chamber during the First Meeting of the 21st Session of the Legislative Council in 2025.
The frequently raised terms should not be brought up since the processes for hiring and issuing visas and work passes for foreign workers have been strengthened and are transparent, involving relevant government agencies.
According to the 2024 Labour Force Survey, local workforce participation stands at 71.3 percent, an increase of 3.8 percent compared to the previous year, while foreign workers account for 28.7 percent of the country's total labour market. In the Professional, Managerial, Executive, and Technical (PMET) job category, a total of 71,500 local youth have filled these positions compared to 15,900 foreign workers, reflecting a positive trend in line with the aspirations of Vision Brunei 2035.
Moreover, the Ministry of Home Affairs has also implemented a new insurance protection policy for foreign workers according to the prescribed coverage levels, to be implemented in phases starting from July 1, 2025, specifically for foreign workers in the domestic service category, visit pass holders entering Brunei Darussalam with a visitor's visa, and permanent residents of Brunei Darussalam who are foreign nationals under the category of foreign nationals contributing to the country’s economy, development, and progress as well as the category of foreign nationals belonging to the professional group.
The second phase will start on January 1, 2026, for foreign workers in the company sector, specifically in the private sector holding dependent passes and foreign student pass holders. Updating the medical insurance policy is an effort by the government to ensure the well-being of foreign workers, particularly in terms of healthcare and medical treatment cost coverage, while also protecting employers from the financial burden of high medical costs and reducing government arrears in financing medical costs for foreign workers in government hospitals.
Alhamdulillah, in 2024, the guidelines for permanent residency applications have been updated. This includes adjustments to marriage duration conditions and age limits for certain applications such as those for children of Brunei citizens and adopted children, as well as gender and adoption counts. From 2020 to July 2025, 1,454 applicants applying for permanent residency with stateless and foreign national status have been granted permanent residency status in Negara Brunei Darussalam. Meanwhile, for citizenship applicants from 2010 to July 2025, a total of 17,068 applications have been processed, with 12,200 becoming citizens of Negara Brunei Darussalam as stipulated in the Brunei Nationality Act, Chapter 15.
Additionally, the Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Language Board, has revisited the curriculum for the written Malay language test as a reference material for candidates taking the Malay language test and candidates taking the Malay oral test.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
To support the third goal, the Ministry of Home Affairs continually supports the government’s efforts to attract more business traders and foreign direct investors (FDI) to the country. Among the measures is by introducing the Long Term Pass policy specifically for Foreign Nationals involved in business and investment sectors in the country. Under this long-term pass for traders, businesspeople and investors will be granted the facility to stay and reside in the country for up to 5 continuous years, including the provision of multiple-entry visa facilities.
Certainly, the introduced policy will make Negara Brunei Darussalam a preferred destination for investors and professional groups. In terms of socio-economic development, the Ministry of Home Affairs will continually support micro, small, and medium enterprises through initiated projects such as upgrading Tamu Selera, organizing seasonal stalls involving local traders, including hawkers using food trucks.
Furthermore, two grass cutting contracts have been awarded by the Tutong District Department to two companies under the Mukim and Kampung Consultative Council, thereby supporting the government’s effort in addressing societal well-being, especially among mukim and kampung residents.
To support entrepreneurs in the 'One Kampong, One Product' initiative, more than 32 sales platforms and expo participation opportunities have been provided. Alhamdulillah, sales during the Hari Raya 2025 alone have reached over $21 thousand Brunei. Meanwhile, the overall sales figure for 1K1P products between January 2024 to July 2025 has exceeded $1.9 million Brunei, including handcraft products made by inmates under the brand INSAF, also marketed through expos and advertised through social media.
Furthermore, local activities in districts are actively carried out from time to time. District Departments have implemented various initiatives to support local economic development. In Brunei Muara District, village shops have been established as centres to market One Kampong One Product. Besides providing support for digital marketing and quality enhancement for entrepreneurs.
Meanwhile, in Belait District, a One-Stop Center is being developed on the site of the former Post Office Building and is expected to begin operations in November 2025. This initiative is driven by grassroots leadership under the Kuala Belait Mukim Head, Village Heads, and Longhouse Chiefs Welfare Body. Similarly, in Temburong District, the village shop operated by Kampung Selangan, Kampung Parit, and Biang Menengah since 2015 will be located at Kedai Rakyat Jati Bangar. Several more locations are also provided for the marketing of village products like Tamu Aneka and Kompleks Utama Bumiputera.
In Tutong District, the Kedai Urus Niaga dan Pemasaran Tiga, KUP Program is operating in the Lagura Space at the Tutong District Office, conducted by Sengkari Mukim and Kampung Consultative Council since September 2, 2024, to support the economic development of the Mukim and Kampung Consultative Council.
The steps kaola shared are a direct joint effort between the government and grassroots leaders in establishing local economic centres at the district level, which is hoped to inspire local youth to actively participate in regional economic development.
Alhamdulillah, the Ministry of Home Affairs, in an effort to assist ex-inmates in gaining employment, has collaborated with 76 local companies and 22 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) through the After Care Program in assisting 73 registered clients to gain employment and 27 clients to start their own businesses.
Additionally, in addressing and providing opportunities for inmates still serving sentences who have the potential to enhance their abilities academically, the Ministry of Home Affairs, through the Prisons Department and in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the private sector, is preparing for the commencement of the academic session starting in October 2025. This is a preparation for selected inmates to sit for the GCE 'O' Level examinations in June 2026.
The ministry remains optimistic about realizing the inmate rehabilitation agenda to provide opportunities for those who have erred so that they can improve themselves towards a better and productive life. It is also a continuous effort to address recidivism. Therefore, support from various levels, starting from families, communities, and the government, is greatly needed.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
That is all kaola can share about the role of the Ministry of Home Affairs and its departments in supporting the goals contained in Vision Brunei 2035. Insya Allah, the ministry will remain proactive in ensuring that current and future strategic plans align with national key indicators and national action key performance indicators.
That’s all, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, (prayer is recited), Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, thank you for the opportunity given by Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Kaola feels it is a good opportunity at the age of almost 83 years now. Kaola joins fellow friends and colleagues in supporting Proposal Number One, Brunei Vision 2035, which was brought to this chamber 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 Second Minister of Defence.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Alhamdulillah, since this Proposal has been debated so far, the chamber has received this vision well. Kaola listens and understands it as a concern of the heart, an aspiration for something noble and hope that we want to always be maintained, preserved, and nurtured. Certainly, for kaola here as an Official Member, kaola is ready and trained to listen with good expectations no matter what the tone or rhythm of the debate is. It is normal that when we are in a meeting, the atmosphere of our meeting remains polite, reflecting the fine manners and steps we take, our behavior as a manifestation of the nation's cultural identity of MIB.
In matters related to religious services, such as the trio objectives of the vision, namely Educated, Highly Skilled, and Successful People; High Quality of Life for the People; and a Dynamic and Resilient Economy, it indeed involves religious affairs services and needs focused and strategic management and implementation from the education aspect, particularly religious education, studies, and schooling concerning religious teachings and practices advocated and propagated, involving aspects like mosque affairs. And also from the perspective of Islamic social and economic systems, especially zakat, waqf, halal food and products, as well as Islamic law and legislation systems.
All of that is included in the governance of government services through the Ministry of Religious Affairs as well as through the government service ministry that gets allocations in the government budget every year for services as well.
In brief, these services also contribute to achieving the goals of Brunei Vision 2035, and kaola intends to expand there. Kaola will choose an approach related to this vision from its philosophical aspect. In what has been heard in this chamber that kaola mentioned earlier as usual, whatever exists, whatever the tone, all of that is in a polite atmosphere and indeed in our good intention in the meeting.
Therefore, in that matter, efforts with good assumptions and perceptions especially from Yang Berhormat Appointed Members towards Brunei Vision 2035 and the efforts that have been made and are being performed by relevant government parties in its implementation in various fields covering achieving its goals. Hence, kaola, in this matter, is pleased to refer to the speech of our Ulil Amri (leader) in state, our Ulil Amri of the state, namely 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, during leading the Brunei Vision 2035 Supreme Council Meeting for the first time in the year 2023 on 30 Rejab 1444, equivalent to 21 February 2023, as quoted in the Brunei Vision 2035 report book for the period of 2015 to 2022. His Majesty's speech cited there in the event said, "...Brunei Vision 2035 is my own aspiration to see the country’s development run smoothly, initially the vision was published through the Long-Term Development Planning Body to plan the nation's development over a 30-year period. I am informed various efforts have been made to realize this Brunei Vision 2035. However, the question is, how far have these efforts succeeded as the period only remains 12 years..." The period mentioned by His Majesty as only 12 years is based on the meeting year date 2023, now it is 2025, so only ten years remain.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
From that speech, it is clear and evident that Brunei Vision 2035 represents His Majesty's aspiration, his own aspiration to see the country's development run smoothly. As it is known and Yang Berhormat Pehin knows better about this vision, it is part of three components in the Long-Term Development Planning. Thus, His Majesty has graciously consented to the establishment of a body called the Long-Term Development Planning Body.
Further, kaola is pleased to refer to the directive written in the result report of that body, where His Majesty states, "...My government is not only responsible to the people and residents of the present but must also help them meet hopes for future generations. To that end, my government must be attentive to the people and residents' aspirations and therefore provide clear and realistic planning for the future. This planning must be implemented with full expertise and professionalism..."
The subsequent directive reads, "...To ensure this, I have consented to the establishment of the Long-Term National Development Planning Body, I have directed..." this is a crucial point, "...I have directed the chairman and members of that body to conduct consultations with the people and residents and to provide a vision that inspires for Brunei Darussalam by 2035". This vision must be complete with the technical, financial, and other strategic requirements so that this vision eventually becomes a reality in a period of 30 years ahead, which signifies the turnover of one generation to the next.
Therefore, it is evident that as this vision has been formulated as part of the two other components in the long-term development planning of the nation, involving the people and residents as decreed earlier. Thus, it is clear that His Majesty wishes such long-term development planning to be consulted, formulated as a result of consultation, and similarly, kaola understands that His Majesty also desires that its current implementation involves the people and residents.
That's why for kaola, it is very wise when this Brunei Vision 2035 Proposal is tabled in this chamber to allow the participation of Yang Berhormat Members, especially Yang Berhormat Appointed Members, to provide inputs or comments on the reports that have been known or obtained achievements through the Brunei Vision 2035 report book for the period of 2015 - 2022.
That participation is very meaningful for Brunei according to what is desired by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. Indeed, in the government, we are ready with plans and ready with manpower. Alhamdulillah, in this era, Yang Berhormat Pehin, Brunei is grateful to have professionals in various fields needed by the country. Therefore, it is trustworthy to entrust the implementation to these individuals alongside other inputs that may be heard as material for improvements.
Kaola asks for a little more time, there is one point kaola will mention. In any accomplishment in 10 years (audio not clear due to clock sound). Can kaola continue, Yang Berhormat Pehin? In any achievement, whether we are at any level, in that achievement, we must remember that this vision is announced concurrently with a statement.
That statement, if read from this book, Yang Berhormat Pehin, mentions that (flipping through the book pages). Apologies, kaola is still searching for it, that no matter the achievements we attain in where we are situated, whether we are on track towards it but haven't reached it yet, or we are now on track and will reach it in those periods, or already within its achievement, or still not yet within its achievement, whatever it is, as we herald Brunei Vision 2035, we also declared as mentioned in this book, on page 11, that towards achieving this vision, we unite in. Firstly, loyalty to the Sultan and the State. Secondly, confidence in Islamic values; and Thirdly, social harmony and the practice of good tradition.
So that means, in achieving the vision, no matter what we achieve or the various ways towards that goal, we must safeguard these three matters whose essence is to maintain peace and stability, the robustness of the nation for the people's prosperity, the happiness that must be and will always be appreciated.
The second matter kaola wishes to add, Yang Berhormat Pehin, is that kaola wishes to mention the matter related to the vision's goals, about life from a social life perspective, kaola considers whether we will be in matters concerning poverty, for example, social ani. Although there were voices some days ago and today also, for example, we have not yet had one, what is it called, a poverty index in this country ani.
Truly, that is the case, but can we overcome issues called poverty or issues of people who are still depending on welfare assistance and also zakat distribution by 2035? Based on the statement Yang Berhormat Pehin, if compared to the statistical record of those in need recorded in the Zakat and Wakaf Affairs Department, the recorded number in 2025 is 13,667 people receiving disbursements, consisting of 4,975 heads of family.
A number of 13 thousand people, encouraging Yang Berhormat Pehin, if by this July, this number stands at 13,667 people compared to the number in 2009 when the accumulated zakat surplus was distributed and Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam himself handed over that statement of distribution to the determined beneficiaries. In those days, the number of beneficiaries was 17,025 people compared to now 13,667 people, meaning there has been a reduction. May this trend be accurate, in the sense of its truth because it is known there are still outstanding applications from 2015 to the present year.
So we don't know yet how far the actual number is. But what is important here is indeed acknowledged that in supporting the objective in social fields, in welfare and so forth, the zakat and waqf system needs improvement to utilize the system better to aid those still requiring assistance or distribution, as we reach 2035, there is still a gap between those who are well-off and those who are not.
Whether it remains the same as now or becomes closer? Already near to closing or it widens? Hence, may what is being endeavored at the Ministry of Religious Affairs in terms of zakat and waqf can aid this matter.
That's all, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, kaola took over 7 minutes. Kaola apologizes. Thank you, peace be upon you, and Allah's mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, Menteri Pembangunan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pembangunan​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, Peace be upon you, and may Allah's mercy and blessings be upon you. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola records support for the Motion put forward by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II regarding the implementation of Wawasan Brunei 2035. This motion is appropriate and reflects the seriousness of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara in upholding the commands and aspirations of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam to ensure that Wawasan Brunei 2035 is directed as the core of the nation's development agenda.
The Ministry of Development plays a role in emphasizing the welfare of the people through the provision of sustainable, safe, inclusive, and resilient national infrastructure development. This role is aligned with supporting the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035, which aims to produce an educated, highly skilled, and successful populace. The efforts of the Ministry of Development directly contribute towards the objective of enhancing a high quality of life and a dynamic and resilient economy.
The role of the Ministry of Development is manifested through its involvement in several national Key Performance Indicators under Wawasan Brunei 2035 as follows: first, the rate of homeownership with a target of 85 percent by 2035. Second, access and quality care of water supply meeting WHO standards with a target of 100 percent by 2035. Third, the number of new buildings meeting accessibility requirements through Different Abilities Design Guidelines with a target of 100 percent by 2035; and fourth, the reduction of waste generation with a target of 1 kilogram per person per day by 2035.
As of now, the homeownership rate in the country stands at 68 percent. To achieve the target of 85 percent as outlined under Wawasan Brunei 2035, the Ministry of Development continues to intensify efforts in planning and implementing phased housing projects. Among the main initiatives currently underway and completed are the completion of 1000 housing units in the National Housing Plan Kampung Lugu, Phase 1. Second, the 950 housing unit project in the National Housing Plan Tanah Jambu Phase 7 is currently 74 percent complete.
Under RKN12, several new housing projects will be implemented, expected to provide at least 1600 housing units as follows: first, National Housing Plan Kampung Lugu Phase 2B spanning 86 acres, 6 hectares which will build 576 housing units, Kampung Rimba Phase 6 spanning 26 hectares which will build 330 housing units, Kampung Salambigar spanning 32 hectares which will build 300 housing units and Kampung Lumut Phase 7 spanning 50 hectares which will build 400 houses.
In the future housing development plan, the Housing Development Department has identified 19 new land sites across all four districts. Moreover, there are 5 new sites in the Brunei and Muara, Tutong, and Belait districts currently under initial study to evaluate their suitability as housing development locations. This is to ensure that housing development sites are well-planned and available to support the continuous, sustainable, and phased implementation of the national housing program.
Among the efforts being undertaken by the Ministry of Development is to increase the provision of more viable housing on a larger scale and cost-effective basis. Through this endeavor, the aim is to explore the benefits of new methods for providing houses through alternative funding such as, first, exploring new methods that can produce houses through allocations or alternative funding like public-private partnerships, using efficient construction technology to provide more sustainable and cost-controlled housing.
The use of quality and sustainable materials and products. Housing unit designs that are more inclusive and meet the needs of the country's people, including families, the elderly, and individuals with special needs. Designs that consider important environmental components like water and energy savings. Optimizing land use by introducing vertical development.
The access rate to water supply in Negara Brunei Darussalam remains at 99.9 percent, while the quality of water supply meeting WHO standards has reached 76 percent. The Water Services Department also continues to implement various improvement initiatives, including strengthening the water channel system network, maintaining water tanks, and upgrading water treatment plants in all districts. Among the major projects currently being implemented are as follows: first, the Construction of Stage 8 Treatment Plant project at Bukit Barun, Tutong District. This is expected to be completed by March 2027. This plant will increase the supply of clean water for the Brunei and Muara districts with a production capacity of around 120 million liters of clean water daily. Second, the Increase in Water Production Capacity project from the Agis-Agis Water Treatment Plant in Sungai Liang, Belait District, expected to be completed by November 2026, which will increase the water production capacity by approximately 36 million liters daily. Third, the Expansion of the Batang Duri Water Treatment Plant project in Temburong District, which is expected to be tendered in December 2025. This project aims to increase water production capacity from 5 million liters daily to 22 million liters daily. Insha Allah, with the completion of these projects, the nation's clean water production capacity will increase from 413 million liters daily to 587 million liters daily.
With this additional capacity, the nation's water supply will be more secure for future generations. This also serves as preparation for meeting water needs in supporting population growth and industrial development. To enhance the resilience of the water supply network system, a 630-kilometer pipe replacement is planned to be implemented under this 12th National Development Plan. The Ministry of Development has also carried out restoration and operation of a total of 7 main water tanks, namely Lugu Water Tank, Batong Water Tank, Sungai Bunga Water Tank, Pulau Baru-Baru Water Tank, Lakiun Tank, Selapon Tank, and Mentiri Water Transfer Tank.
The implementation of the Smart Water Meter USMS Project is a strategic step in efforts to reduce the rate of non-revenue water and address outstanding billing issues by providing transparent measurements of clear water usage conditions. So far, 37.8 percent, or 48,765 units out of 128,879 water meter units, have been installed in phases with a target to reach 100 percent by 2027.
Turning to waste management, the waste generation target is 1 kilogram per person daily, where in 2024 it stands at 1.27 kilograms per person daily. Meanwhile, the recycling rate target is 30 percent by 2035. This is a step to support the concept of a circular economy in line with Sustainable Development Goal SDG12, Responsible Consumption and Production. The Department of Environment, Parks, and Recreation has implemented several initiatives towards improving efficient and resilient waste management through offering the Waste-to-Energy Plant Construction Project. Towards this goal, a request for proposal was opened on July 24th.
This project is targeted to be completed and operational by 2029. It will be able to manage a significant portion of daily domestic waste, reduce reliance on landfill sites, and contribute to achieving the national renewable energy target. By 2030 we are targeting no new waste or landfill sites after the Sungai Paku Landfill. Starting with the 3R method initiative, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle since 2011, several other initiatives have been successfully implemented, including the Nationwide Recycling Day initiative in all four districts held on June 22, 2025. The aim is to raise awareness and public participation in practicing recycling habits.
With the Recycling Day initiative on that day, a total of 1,918 kilograms of paper waste, 669 kilograms of cardboard, 469 kilograms of plastic bottles, 392 liters of used cooking oil, 62 units of lithium batteries, 578 units of electronic waste, and 929 discarded items were collected for recycling. On February 27, 2025, the Eco-Food Waste Initiative was launched to promote the composting of food waste as natural fertilizer and to introduce food waste management guidelines.
As an initial step, a pilot project is underway involving 63 food vendors from two main commercial locations, The Mall Gadong and One Riverside. The data collected from this will serve as a guide in elevating this initiative as a sustainable food waste management transformation. On June 5, 2025, the Ministry of Development also launched the BELIA BRUNAS Program as a platform for active youth participation in national environmental sustainability efforts to create knowledgeable and skilled youth in leading green initiatives and sustainable development.
Development efforts in projects enhancing the drainage system and flood mitigation projects are continuing, especially in areas identified as high flood risk. For the Tutong District, including Pekan Tutong and Kampung Keriam, the Flood Mitigation Project under RKN12 is now in the final stage of tender evaluation. Meanwhile, for the Brunei and Muara districts, a request for quotation has been opened for the Kampung Pasai and Mulaut Flood Management Project Phase One, which includes widening of drains and construction of flood retention ponds.
Additionally, the Sungai Kedayan Flood Mitigation Project Phase Six in Kampung Pengkalan Gadong is now in the tender preparation process and is expected to be opened on September 17, 2025.
This project includes riverbed deepening work, embankment construction, and the installation of an early flood warning system. Upgrading of the drainage system and water pump system to reduce flood risks is also being carried out such as first, the Outfall Project in Jalan Maulana, Kuala Belait. The tender was opened on July 16, 2025, and will close on August 26, 2025. Second, the tender for Station Pump F17 Seria has closed on July 1, 2025, and is now in the tender evaluation process; and third, Station Pump Jalan Jerambak, Berakas. Now the third phase tender for work to increase the capacity of water pumping out of the reservoir during heavy rain will be opened on September 24, 2025.
Besides that, tender preparation for drainage widening and concrete drain construction work is being carried over for the following projects: first, Jerudong Drainage Improvement Project Phase Two; and second, Drainage Upgrade Project in the Kolej Universiti Perguruan Ugama Seri Begawan, KUPUSB area. The tender for the Brunei Darussalam Drainage Master Plan Study Project and the Floodplain Management Study for Sungai Belait and Temburong is currently under evaluation. This study will help in adapting more effective drainage system designs through real-time data and flood modeling to address the impacts of climate change.
To control coastal erosion caused by climate impact, the tender for the Coastal Protection Study Project in Kampung Danau, Tutong District is currently under evaluation for implementation.
For road upgrading and construction projects, several major projects have been planned and are underway; first, upgrading highways and main roads including road widening work to increase road capacity which is expected to be opened for tender in October 2025 for Tungku Highway from Rimba flyover to Estate Gadong flyover, Jalan Tutong from Jalan Tanjong Nangka intersection to Jalan Ikas Bandung intersection and Jalan Muara from Jalan Aman to Jalan Salambigar intersection. Second, the construction of new flyovers to enhance connectivity at highway intersections such as flyover construction at Jalan Utama Mentiri intersection and Jalan Muara intersection and the Tanah Jambu connecting road which was completed and opened recently on August 2, 2025; and third, flyover construction at Muara-Tutong Highway intersection and Tanah Jambu connecting road near the Tanjong Kajar Industrial Site started on February 23, 2023, and is expected to be completed by September 2026.
Eighteen projects involving repair and resurfacing of damaged roads are carried out on a scheduled basis. Out of 18 arranged projects, a total of 7 long-term contracts have been completed where 7.8 kilometers of main roads have been repaired and resurfaced, namely Tungku Highway and Jalan Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien 3.5 kilometers, Jalan Kebangsaan 0.6 kilometers, Jalan Utama Mentiri 0.4 kilometers, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Highway leading to the airport 0.5 kilometers, Jalan Gadong 0.8 kilometers, Lumut-Belait Highway 1.4 kilometers, Jalan Jerudong 0.4 kilometers.
Meanwhile, eight other road maintenance contracts are in execution. Resurfacing of roads in rural areas is also not left out. New technology is also used in repair and resurfacing work to ensure road durability and extend the lifespan of those roads, for instance, first, using asphalt fiber reinforcement in asphalt mixtures to enhance the resistance of the asphalt layer against cracking and corrugation; and second, installing fiberglass reinforcement grid. Intended to increase the base structural strength of roads to withstand traffic loads and to prevent uneven surfaces, cracking, and more.
The polymer used in this road base mixture is capable of producing a layer that enhances resistance to water and traffic load which is hoped to reduce damage such as potholes, cracks, and more.
The Ministry of Development in its main role as the leading agency in national infrastructure development through RKN projects will carry out this role more integratedly and directed towards achieving the high quality of life goals of the people and the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Your Honourable Members.
That's all kaola can convey in supporting this motion for the vision proposed by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri and Menteri Pertahanan II. With the permission and blessings of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala and with the grace of the leadership of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, we will be able to achieve the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035, Insha Allah. Amin Ya Rabbal Alamin. Wabillahit Taufik Walhidayah Wassalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Ta’ala Wabarakatuh.
Kaola apologizes for going over three minutes. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Nazmi bin Haji Awang Mohamad, Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, for allowing kaola to participate in the debate to fully support the Brunei Vision 2035 Proposal from Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II.
Kaola would also like to take this opportunity to share a brief clarification regarding the implementation of the Social Blueprint as part of the nation's effort to realize Brunei Vision 2035, particularly towards achieving Goal 2, which is a High Quality of Life.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara, whom peramba and kaola highly respect. Kaola would also like to express the utmost appreciation and gratitude to Your Honourable Members in this esteemed council for all contributions, inputs, and constructive ideas in our collective effort to implement strategies towards achieving Brunei Vision 2035.
Certainly, all suggestions and perspectives presented will be considered subject to current needs and priorities. In this regard, allow peramba and kaola to seize this opportunity to clarify the poverty line, which has been discussed and raised in our discussions in this esteemed council.
Poverty within our society is characterized merely as relative poverty and not absolute poverty as defined by the World Bank.
The international poverty line according to the World Bank is US$1.90 a day, or equivalent to BND 2.45 a day based on the current currency exchange rate of Negara Brunei Darussalam. The group requiring assistance in this country is defined according to the calculation of the minimum basic needs rate, known as KMKA. KMKA includes both food and non-food requirements.
Based on the 2015/2016 household expenditure study, the KMKA rate for Negara Brunei Darussalam is BND 283 per person per month, including food KMKA of BND 167 per person per month and non-food KMKA of BND 116 per person per month. Compared to the international poverty line, our nation's procedure for assessing eligibility for aid is more comprehensive because if we were to use international standards, many families currently in need of aid might not qualify.
Therefore, those unable to meet the KMKA are defined as those requiring assistance, notably recipients of the Monthly Welfare Assistance under the Jabatan Pembangunan Masyarakat, JAPEM, recipients of Zakat Asnaf Fakir and Miskin distribution under the Jabatan Urusan Zakat Wakaf dan Baitulmal, JUZWAB, and other aid provided by the government through government and non-government agencies.
This group is consistently supported by the government Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, in line with the national aspiration to prevent leaks and omissions in providing aid to those genuinely in need.
Here, peramba and kaola would like to share that more than 14,000 Monthly Welfare Assistance applications with a financial amount exceeding BND 25 million and over 300 in-kind aids have been distributed. Meanwhile, more than 9,000 applications under Jabatan Urusan Zakat Wakaf dan Baitulmal, JUZWAB, with a financial amount exceeding BND 51 million have also been distributed.
Additionally, government agencies supported by strategic partners in the private sector, non-government organizations, grassroots community groups are working hand in hand to safeguard societal welfare, ensuring not only their basic needs are met but also bridging their necessity gaps so they can escape the cycle of poverty. This includes increasing access for generating income through employment and entrepreneurship and providing skills training to aid recipients and their dependents, ensuring they receive essential needs, particularly quality education and comfortable housing.
Kaola often emphasizes the importance of education when discussing poverty. Education is a game changer, as if the children of aid recipients receive a good education and succeed in their schooling, achieving a degree to secure a good career, it can change their family's fortune. Previously reliant on their parents, it then becomes their turn to support them. This is not just hypothetical but proven among our society and others abroad and neighboring countries.
In this context, the national social policy framework, Social Blueprint, has been introduced as a policy plan focusing on national social development aligned with the Brunei Vision 2035 second goal, High Quality of Life. As one of the 3 main national master plans alongside the Manpower Blueprint and Economic Blueprint, the Social Blueprint plays a complementary role in forming the foundation for inclusive and resilient national development, concentrating on 6 national priorities under the vision framework: health, social wellbeing, transportation, environment and climate change, governance and cooperation, and science and technology.
Considering the increasingly complex and uncertain global geopolitical and economic challenges, the Social Blueprint is developed to guide national social development in an orderly, comprehensive, and sustainable way, grounded in humane and cultural values, policy coordination among agencies, and a whole of nation approach that recognizes all parties' roles, including government, society, private sector, and individuals in achieving the nation's social advancement aspirations we collectively desire. To this end, the Social Blueprint defines national social advancement through 3 main pillars. First, ensuring citizens' and residents' basic needs are sustainably met, including access to healthcare services, quality education, employment opportunities, and safe and comfortable housing. In this context, social progress refers to more than economic growth but how citizens benefit from development in daily life;
Second, ensuring the physical, mental, emotional, and social wellbeing and safety of the citizens and residents of this nation, aligned with the need to build a conducive, healthy, and sustainable living environment supporting the formation of a harmonious and prosperous society; and Third, building a resilient society capable of adapting and addressing present and future challenges. What's envisioned is a resilient society, capable of not just recovering from challenges and crises but also bouncing back quickly and adapting to environmental changes to continue growing and thriving.
This reflects the government Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam's aspiration to nurture competitive and resilient individuals, citizens, and communities able to seize opportunities amidst challenges.
Overall, these three pillars form the basis of a holistic social development approach rooted in humanitarian values to create a better future collectively, aligned with the vision to build an inclusive, stable, and prosperous nation by 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The Social Blueprint outlines a comprehensive direction towards forming a strong, balanced, and inclusive social future based on four main aspirations. First, from an individual perspective, to produce self-reliant, resilient citizens ready to face the future. Second, in terms of family institutions, to empower caring, strong, and resilient family institutions, importantly being caring families. Third, from a community perspective, to develop a caring, inclusive, and equitable society; and Fourth, an overall empowerment of social development through a whole of nation approach.
These four aspirations are equally crucial and mutually complement one another. Overall, these aspirations are supported by 19 strategic goals and 28 policy directions, backed and monitored through several action KPIs. Therefore, the Social Blueprint's implementation is not only about envisioning the future but also about systematically achieving it inclusively and comprehensively, aligned with national policies and the long-term goals of Brunei Vision 2035 for the people's and nation's wellbeing.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Generally, the Social Blueprint's implementation has shown positive progress in strengthening national social development in a more structured and inclusive manner. Early achievements can be observed through several key dimensions. First, policy alignment and strategic direction, the Social Blueprint provides a clear and targeted framework to unify existing social initiatives through various ministries comprehensively under one national vision guided by Brunei Vision 2035. It serves as a critical reference in ensuring social policies move in tandem and complement each other. Secondly, in monitoring and reporting, a digital dashboard has been developed to measure progress based on KPIs. This is a key achievement towards more transparent, data-driven Social Blueprint governance, allowing continuous impact assessment.
Thirdly, from the perspective of multi-stakeholder engagement through cross-sector collaboration, the Social Blueprint's implementation will further strengthen collaboration between government agencies, non-government organizations, the private sector, educational institutions, and grassroots communities. Through this comprehensive approach, various programs have been implemented collectively to support national social wellbeing, particularly in youth development, mental health, strengthening family institutions, and cultural preservation and practice.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. May I proceed briefly (slight laughter).
Among initiatives reflecting the success of such cross-sector collaboration are Talian Harapan 145, Mental Health Action Plan, Dasar Belia Negara, and Social Security Strategy implemented through various action plans under Majlis Kebangsaan Isu Sosial, MKIS, which demonstrates how the Social Blueprint's aspirations are translated into actions with direct community impact;
Fourth, in public awareness and understanding, the Social Blueprint roadshows and awareness plans being implemented have helped improve societal understanding regarding their roles in supporting national social direction. Positive responses from various community levels reflect the growing acceptance and support of this blueprint; and
Lastly, in empowerment, efforts are actively underway to build the capacities and capabilities of involved agencies through training, resource alignment, and suitable social development indicators' usage. This includes adopting international indexes such as the Human Development Index, HDI, and developing a more contextual National Social Index.
Overall, despite being in its early phase, a solid foundation for the Social Blueprint's implementation has been established. These achievements indicate that our nation is on the right track to realizing strategic goals for inclusive, sustainable, and people-centered social development in line with Brunei Vision 2035 aspirations.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
It cannot be denied that we continue facing challenges such as optimal resource utilization, stronger coordination needs, and ensuring program effectiveness in meeting impactful, meaningful targets.
However, with a comprehensive approach, effective coordination, and robust cooperation at all levels, we are confident that the Social Blueprint can become a crucial driver of the Second Goal of Brunei Vision 2035.
Finally, peramba and kaola want to emphasize the importance of all society's layers playing their roles in supporting and realizing the Social Blueprint's aspirations. However, the Social Blueprint's implementation as the National Social Development Master Plan cannot proceed in isolation and is mutually complemented by the Manpower Blueprint and Economic Blueprint. The interconnectivity of these three blueprints is vital to ensure our national policies do not operate in silos.
Instead, they support each other integrally. The Manpower Blueprint, Economic Blueprint provides essential prerequisites for the Social Blueprint's success, while the Social Blueprint ensures human and community development aligns with economic growth and workforce transformation towards an inclusive, resilient nation.
And this is truly the end; with determination and cooperation from all parties, we can achieve success and realize our nation's great aspirations by 2035, insya Allah.
Thank you, Wabillahit taufik walhidayah. Wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta’ala wabarakatuh. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan, and now I invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. (Prayer is read).
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh dan salam sejahtera.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, for providing the opportunity for koala to contribute to the debate in supporting the motion for integrated action and support proposed with a holistic approach to realize the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
As elaborated by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II in this honorable hall. Kaola, with full respect and regard, sincerely extends gratitude for the decree 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 dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for this chamber to review the proposals and ideas presented, especially to achieve the main goals of the vision now detailed through three main action plans namely the Manpower Blueprint, Social Blueprint, and Economic Blueprint.
Kaola would also like to congratulate all involved, especially those at the working level, who have worked hard in preparing these blueprints in response to the calls and high spirits to realize the Vision Brunei 2035 within the remaining time.
The preparation of these blueprints aims to further clarify the vision's direction, provide guidance, and streamline decision-making, help in coordinating resources and activities among stakeholders, enable monitoring and evaluation, and serve as a communication tool regarding the country's strategic intent.
The key word here is country. In this context, we need to move in unison, row together, start the journey together, heading towards the destination, that is the vision. This includes ensuring sustainable national development, prioritizing important matters, and being able to balance long-term growth and development with financial positions and expenditures.
Using a modern football analogy playing in an arena or stadium, usually, if a game consists of 11 players on a team, there would be 20 players in the field, but more spectators in the grandstand. What we want is participation numbers like the traditional mob football that involves hundreds or even thousands of players, but with full etiquette. In other words, we want to see everyone involved playing their respective roles towards realizing and starting the journey towards Wawasan 2035. I believe that if given the opportunity, all residents in Negara Brunei Darussalam would want to play their respective roles.
The existing three blueprints are dynamic guides and are not exhaustive and require active involvement from all parties. The success of implementing these plans does not only depend on the Government alone but also requires close cooperation from the private sector, educational institutions, non-government organizations, and the people as a whole. Each party plays an important role in contributing to capacity building, innovation, and policy effectiveness so that we can together build a balanced and resilient future.
The Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications also plays a comprehensive role, including supporting various sectors, including capacity building through the Manpower Industry Steering Committee initiative, enhancing the digital ecosystem, social development through aspects of connectivity and mobility, and contributing to economic growth in terms of providing logistics services and facilities.
In line with that, in strengthening efforts towards realizing Wawasan Brunei 2035, kaola would like to share here some indicative matters regarding the contributions of the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications towards supporting the intended goals by 2035. One such initiative starts with the National Development Plan.
I am pleased to refer to the six pillars that guide the preparation of programs and projects under RKN12, where the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications also plays a vital role in contributing to the three related pillars, namely; Pillar 4, strengthening national security and sustainable public well-being; Pillar 5, increasing the non-oil and gas sector's contribution to the national economy; and Pillar 6, strengthening government management for efficient and conducive public administration.
In connection with that, the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications has a total of 21 projects under RKN12 aimed at enhancing sustainable economic growth and improving public well-being. This also includes initiatives related to digital transformation that will contribute to increased innovation capacity and productivity levels through the use of digital technology.
Under Pillar 4, there are a total of nine projects aimed at strengthening national security and sustainable public well-being by emphasizing the country's sovereignty and stability while prioritizing public welfare and well-being. The Ministry's projects under Pillar 4 aim to improve weather analysis systems, upgrade systems and equipment to ensure safety and security at Brunei International Airport, and provide and upgrade public transport infrastructure.
As mentioned before during the First Meeting of the 21st Session of the National Assembly in March, the Request For Proposal (RFP) for providing, operating, managing, and maintaining public transport services in Negara Brunei Darussalam has been opened to interested companies and kaola is pleased to share that the ministry through the Land Transport Department has received a total of 14 proposals. An evaluation committee has been established to assess these RFPs.
The members of the committee consist of the relevant parties to ensure that the evaluation process is carried out comprehensively, transparently, and meets the objectives. With the implementation of this project, it aligns with the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035 as outlined in the Social Blueprint.
Next, for Pillar 5, which is to increase the non-oil and gas sector's contribution to the national economy, the ministry's main focus is related to the contribution of the infocommunication and information technology (ICT) sector to GDP and the service sector, specifically in air and sea freight movement, as contained in the Economic Blueprint. Furthermore, studies on science technology and innovation and the CREATES research fund are also part of the projects identified under this pillar.
The implementation of these initiatives will support achieving the dynamic and resilient economic goals of Vision Brunei 2035. Finally, the target for Pillar 6, to strengthen government management for efficient and conducive public administration, where a total of 10 projects have been approved for implementation by the ministry.
Among the contributing factors to this pillar are government facilities and building projects. Digital technology systems and infrastructure, including high-quality infocommunication and technological facilities. The projects referred to are public transportation systems, smart transportation systems, digitalization of land transport services, gov.bn, data analytics as a service, and record management systems. The implementation of the projects mentioned earlier will support the second goal of Wawasan Brunei 2035, which is the high quality of life for the people.
In supporting Wawasan Brunei 2035, efforts at the ministry level continue to be enhanced by ensuring that the ministry's strategic plans and those of the departments and authorities under the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications are aligned with the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035.
Among the key performance indicators at the ministry level that also contribute to the Economic Blueprint and subsequently support the third goal of Wawasan Brunei 2035 is the increase in air passenger movement, from about 1.2 million in 2023 to almost 1.5 million in 2024.
Contributing factors to this positive increase include the addition of the number of operating airlines and the increase in the number of destinations and flight frequencies at Brunei International Airport. The increase in sea cargo volume from about 33.8 million tons in 2023 to 38.6 million tons in 2024. This upward trend is driven by significant contributions from the oil and gas sector and downstream, including a surge in conventional cargo.
In the ministry's ongoing efforts, the new MTIC Strategic Plan 2026-2030 will continue to be aligned with Wawasan Brunei 2035, national blueprints, industry roadmaps, and also the main sector plans and the Sustainable Development Goals. This is to ensure that the sectors under the ministry will continue to contribute to the country's achievement targets by 2035, especially in improving the quality of life for the population and making Negara Brunei Darussalam a competitive and resilient nation.
With a spirit of synergy and shared responsibility, let us move forward hand in hand collectively to address the responsibility of ensuring that all strategic policies and implementation of roadmaps, blueprints continue to be aligned and have a high impact in achieving Wawasan Brunei 2035 and bringing continuous progress and well-being to our beloved Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Thank you, Yang Berhormat. Your Honourable Members, Alhamdulillah, we have been discussing and debating all day today, and I would like to propose that our meeting be adjourned.
Insha Allah, we will resume the session on the following day, which is Thursday, August 7, 2025, as usual starting from 9:30 a.m.
Thank you. Wabillahit taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta'ala wabarakatuh.
(The meeting is adjourned)
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website, you may be able to link to other websites which are not under our control. We have no control over the nature, content, and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, we take no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control.