DAY 9 AFTERNOON
📖 Reading time: 77 minutes
📊 Word count: 14,953 words
25TH MARCH 2026 AFTERNOON​
(The meeting commenced at 2.00 p.m.)
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah taala and His blessings. Your Honourable Members, the Legislative Council session is still discussing the Supply Bill (2026), 2026/2027 and the Development Fund Resolution Motion. I now adjourn this session, and we will then continue with the debate at the Committee of Supply stage.
(The Legislative Council was adjourned)
(The meeting sat as a Committee)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members, we now resume the examination of the Titles at the Committee of Supply stage. Earlier this morning, we heard ten Members who eh, no, eight Your Honourable Members, several Appointed Your Honourable Members, who raised questions and also opinions regarding Title SJ01A - Ministry of Religious Affairs. Actually, seven Appointed Your Honourable Members.
Now, as I promised before we took our morning break, I will give the floor to Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama to debate or provide his comments or response within the time limit set. Please proceed, Yang Berhormat Pehin.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and colleagues as well as friends in this chamber.
Praise be to Allah, kaola has now rested, in the sense that if resting means straightforwardly, kaola should no longer be answering the questions from Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, but from that at least it is somewhat calmer to think, so whether within the time given kaola can answer or explain only some parts of them, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi ah, but what is important is that kaola appreciates what was raised earlier, it was raised very relevantly, except the first one earlier, not that it was irrelevant regarding rukyah and so on, that issue is already established, established, something already known to the public and so on. So it is no longer a question ah, why, because it has its law, its procedures and methods already all in place, so that matter does not need kaola to answer in that direction and with the permission of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi as well.
So in the following questions, kaola found that besides the questions there were also suggestions that ought to be noted for the ministry to take into attention, for example Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan, who raised the importance of strengthening the law relating to halal and haram which is mentioned here in terms of consumer goods.
So, on that matter, kaola would like to explain first of all that at present, the existing law only covers food, it does not include consumer goods and it also does not include transportation logistics. So in that regard, it does not mean that the matter is neglected. Majlis Ugama Islam which guides the Ministry of Religious Affairs in this matter, provides guidance that even though there is not yet any law on the matter of consumer goods, precautionary, supervisory, monitoring and related measures must still be carried out under the same procedures as monitoring and if necessary for on-site inspection and so on, and that is what has already been happening and praise be to Allah from time to time the public also knows that there are actions ah taken in that matter, so if it needs to be separated, it is separated or if it needs to be directly detained, meaning if it is connected with the halal certificate or halal label issued to the premises concerned or that custody, then action appropriate to the requirements of the law has been carried out.
That is all Yang Berhormat Pengerusi ah to Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan, it is clear that although there is not yet any law regarding consumer goods in relation to halal certification, nevertheless the Ministry of Religious Affairs through the Syariah Affairs Department, the Halal Food Control Division and so on has already given serious attention and it has indeed been proven from time to time that the public is aware of the serious attention to control matters so that the Muslim community does not, what is the term, what is it, misuse or wrongly do things in matters which are said not yet to have laws, yet before there are laws there are preventive measures. That is one.
Secondly, the question from Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir, which was already, as it were, addressed earlier, we agreed that there is no need to raise it again, regarding rukyah, regarding what that is. So we move to the third question, directly from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim. Yang Berhormat submitted two or three questions. Brief but substantial.
First, regarding ways to encourage progressive wakaf. So the phrase "progressive wakaf" is very interesting. Indeed, that is the direction currently being considered or being pursued by Majlis Ugama Islam and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Meaning wakaf in the past, first, wakaf in earlier times under the Majlis Ugama Islam and Kadi Courts law of the 1950s already existed as such. Wakaf that was administered was wakaf concerning matters of a kind, namely land for mosque sites or school sites or for small road access or roads in villages.
So it was of a nature that was not something developed to generate returns. So that aspect of the law has not changed, however the dynamics in wakaf continue to develop, Pehin. Therefore in 1994, Majlis Ugama Islam and the Ministry of Religious Affairs agreed to establish Badan Tanmiah, development, and so forth. Then in 2013 or 2012 there was an effort to introduce a Waqf Act. At that time, in preparing that Waqf Act, we were also racing to complete the Syariah Penal Code, so this waqf act was left aside while the Syariah Criminal matter was prioritised, and only after that was completed was it raised again and at present, the Waqf Act has already been completed at the Majlis Ugama Islam stage and the subsequent processes are for the examination of the AG Chambers and from there later it will return to Majlis Ugama Islam and then the next process for, what is this, seeking whatever consent is required for it to become an act and so on through those processes.
So at this stage, the act will be finalised, God willing. Because we are looking at this wakaf with the phrase progressive wakaf. We will look at existing experiences, which have already been reviewed up to the peninsula and up to Singapore. There are several forms of modernity regarding wakaf, so such matters are incorporated into, what is it called, the elements in that act and most importantly to encourage this progressive wakaf, Yang Berhormat Pehin himself is certainly aware of it. It is no longer a matter of people merely piling up, what is needed are professionals in their fields, especially in finance or in investment, and these are the people who will be needed. So matters such as these, God willing, once the act is in place and everything in the council is clear, then God willing we will look ahead in that way, Pehin.
Second, Yang Berhormat Pehin raised the outcome of the UNISSA study regarding applications for assistance, namely zakat assistance. UNISSA was given a task by Majlis Ugama Islam to conduct a study on why the number of asnaf receiving zakat distribution continues to increase and also continues to show no significant progress in improving their standard of living to the point of leaving the asnaf category, with only a few percent of those who are nurtured and supported in that way. So that study is very useful, Pehin, to Majlis Ugama Islam and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Among the findings of the study conducted by Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali is that the disbursement of zakat assistance still shows significant need, especially among the poor and needy groups.
Therefore, in that connection, the Ministry of Religious Affairs through JUZWAB is now strengthening the management of assistance applications through a more systematic assessment process and continuous monitoring to ensure distribution is made more effectively to those who truly need it and are entitled, eligible. At the same time, the approach of empowering asnaf through entrepreneurial model assistance and skills enhancement programmes is also being strengthened to help recipients of distribution or asnaf improve their standard of living and to make them self-reliant and so on, and although the percentage of success is still low, this effort is important to continue and its continuation, or why it is still low and so on, means that this programme itself must be monitored. It also requires personnel who have links with industry, who have links with experience in developing people's talents. So at present that is what will be endeavoured, Pehin.
And thirdly from Yang Berhormat Pehin as well, the measures to produce and increase Islamic finance experts, and it was also added earlier as kaola heard, that it is not only finance experts but also experts in food, food science, because both these fields are currently, what is this, needed and developing not only abroad but also within our own country.
So measures to produce and increase local Islamic finance experts as well as experts in the field of food science, and to produce and increase local Islamic finance experts require an integrated, systematic and continuous approach encompassing education, professional training, industrial training and government policy. Among the measures that have been implemented by the Ministry of Religious Affairs which I can mention here is strengthening the foundation of early education, namely at the education level, efforts to strengthen the educational foundation related to Islamic finance have been implemented by introducing the basics of Islamic finance in the curriculum of arabic schools and religious schools. The pupils or students are exposed to concepts such as riba, zakat, wakaf, sukuk and the like.
How many minutes more? I have already exceeded by one minute. So secondly is expanding study programmes to Higher Education Institutions. At the higher education level, the Ministry of Religious Affairs also offers scholarships in the field of Islamic finance. Over the past 10 years, a total of 7 scholarship students of the Ministry of Religious Affairs have pursued studies in the field of Islamic finance, 5 have completed their studies and from that number, 4 have served with the Government of His Majesty. Overall, efforts to realise the aspiration of increasing Islamic finance experts in this country require a comprehensive, strategic and integrated approach between the government and the private sector. Priority must be given to strengthening the Islamic finance industry ecosystem through the following measures:
The drafting and implementation of supportive policies and planning for the growth of the local Islamic finance industry, the empowerment of the syariah-compliant Islamic banking and takaful sector in a sustainable and competitive manner. Encouragement of innovation in the development of local Islamic financial products and services, provision of competitive employment opportunities to attract ah and retain local talent and finally the creation of clear, structured and progressive career pathways in the field of Islamic finance and if included as well in the field of food science. Or it relates to halal food and consumer goods. Kaola seeks Yang Berhormat Pengerusi's permission to answer one more or if there is still time ah.
(Yang Berhormat Pengerusi signals agreement)
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
Regarding what is this, among the elements in the question, ah, from Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah earlier, among them was the mention of digital transformation V2. So on behalf of the Ministry, thank you is conveyed and note is taken of the suggestion that digitalisation should not only focus on zakat and wakaf but that all religious services should be organised centrally.
Following the suggestion from Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah. So the response on behalf of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, to make it easier for the public to understand the Ministry of Religious Affairs' approach, can briefly be stated as follows: The Ministry has already listed all the main matters the public needs, namely from the Ministry's mapping exercise, there are 66 religious services identified as a master list to be digitised in phases and used as a benchmark for planning. Secondly, based on that list, the Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing a new website and an e-Services portal so that the public will not need to search by division but can go through one gateway and choose according to life needs, namely live event, which is easier to understand. Thirdly, so as to align with national efforts, this implementation is being carried out with whole-of-government alignment through collaboration with EGNC including using the Government platform FormBN. The Ministry of Religious Affairs has also appointed a FormBN Champion to accelerate the digitalisation of official forms in an orderly manner.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, this progress is also tied to three measures of success in the Ministry of Religious Affairs Strategic Plan 2025-2029, namely first how many core services have been successfully digitised? Second how many citizens are actually using them? And third the level of public satisfaction so that what is done is not merely a system existing but truly makes things easier. It is hoped that this initial initiative will begin to show clearer results in this new Financial Year especially in terms of one-stop access, more organised forms and an easier experience.
This is not us wanting to outright reject what was suggested by Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, her suggestion is still wanted. It is not confined to just one or two matters but in prioritising entry into this digital phase, these digitalisations, we have priorities that will be implemented first. Is the rest sufficient with a written reply or is there still time, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi? (soft laughter)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Perhaps if Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama agrees on the others, perhaps what we should do, Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama, is answer them in writing more accurately, hitting our intended target rather than discussing them ..
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
No need ..
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Unless Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama has, what is it, something specific, ..
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
No, even the Yang Berhormat Ahli-Ahli ..
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Something that Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama thinks should be known by the other Members.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
Although kaola has notes for a reply, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, kaola will reserve some of them so that there will be an opportunity for us Yang Berhormat to have the opportunity to make a visit, ah, a dialogue with all of us, and at that stage they will be used. At the same time, the reply, ah, what is it, the response to what was raised earlier will also be conveyed in writing, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola seek the agreement of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
(Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua signals agreement)
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
Thank you. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. That is the preliminary response from, or the initial response from Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama to several matters raised by the appointed Your Honourable Members in relation to this Title, and I think this title is now appropriate for us to vote on. Your Honourable Members who agree, please raise your hands.
(All Members raise their hands in agreement)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
It appears that all Members agree, therefore title SJ01A Ministry of Religious Affairs is approved.
(Gavel struck)
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Title SJ01A forms part of the Schedule. Title SK01A to Title SK08A Ministry of Development.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. Title SK01A to Title SK08A for the Ministry of Development I now open for debate. I begin with Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
The first question is directed to the Housing Development Department, SK02A Code 002/000 Project Management and Housing Infrastructure Development BND3.9 million. Kaola would like to seek clarification on whether there is consideration to expedite the provision of houses to the people in all four districts while optimising designs suited to Bruneian characteristics. For example, is the Ministry considering an approach such as providing only basic low-cost single-storey units that can later be renovated and extended more easily in the future so that new families will be able to occupy homes more quickly and then make suitable additions at a future stage according to their means? This approach has the potential to keep construction costs low, expedite house handovers in every district and help reduce future extension costs. Kaola would like clarification on the extent to which this matter is being reviewed by the Ministry.
The second question, kaola would like to ask about the Public Works Department, SK03A - Code 002/000 valued at BND63.7 million. Ah, following several incidents of water supply disruption affecting certain areas, kaola would like to seek clarification regarding the emergency response plan, including reviewing critical infrastructure services such as not only water but also telecommunications, electricity and connecting roads, and providing reinforced stock emergency response material and equipment as a result of lessons from the incidents and preparing several specific scenarios, particularly in ensuring the Government agencies' capability to undertake, restore critical infrastructure more quickly, safely and effectively. To what extent does the ministry ensure the availability of emergency stock equipment for critical services as well as the adequacy of allocations and conduct periodic exercises with certain scenarios for the purpose of giving confidence in the ability to restore this critical service. And besides that, is there a periodic review of sites and routes of critical infrastructure such as electricity supply, communications, water and road networks to ensure the readiness of the national system is always tested and functioning in facing various scenarios in terms of climate change and arising issues.
The third question. Considering SK01A - Code 003/000. Construction Industry Management BND2.8 million. Taking into account the experience of previous RKN cycles where many projects were delayed in implementation and development allocations were not fully utilised, is there any plan to ensure that the project management competency framework is absorbed among ministry personnel and also help ensure this competency in other ministries responsible for projects in their respective ministries. In this regard, to what extent is the ministry considering developing a standard project management template covering project funnel, risk management, cost facing and the like as a project delivery tool kit, especially for project owners from non-technical streams so that project requirements can be defined more clearly and consistently from the outset and subsequently increase implementation effectiveness and optimal use of public funds, and what steps are being taken, taken to ensure that site supervision is conducted independently and does not depend on the main contractor. That is all. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman​
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh and greetings of peace. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi for the opportunity to debate the Ministry of Development Title. In the 2026/2027 expenditure estimates, Alhamdulillah, the Ministry of Development as a whole has been allocated BND215,406,220 and the ministry has 3 main programmes to be implemented with their respective objectives.
Kaola would like to touch on one of the programmes, namely under Code 003/000 Construction Industry Management, which is to regulate, develop, monitor and ensure that registered contractors and suppliers have the relevant competency and capability while encouraging the involvement of local contractors in the construction industry. Kaola is pleased that this matter has been made a ministry programme because this noble Council has previously touched on sub-standard work carried out by contractors, if their work is not regulated. Kaola only wishes to know the extent to which this programme is progressing with a whole of nation approach so that contractors and developers also have a say, have a voice in the issues of regulatory control and the regulations imposed.
Next, kaola refers to Title SK02A - Housing Development Department. That is, kaola would like to know the status of damaged houses in the Mengkubau housing area and several other areas that are unsuitable for occupation and have been so since the beginning upon completion of construction. Kaola would like to know the extent to which works to repair such houses have been carried out because repairs to those houses do not appear in the allocation or KPI, as though it would be better if these works, these repair works, were made into a KPI of the Housing Department because the number is large and it causes losses to the government if still not repaired. Likewise, works to address empty government buildings that are no longer safe to use. What action has been taken so far. On this occasion kaola appreciates the works that have been carried out by JASTRE in the effort to plant trees along the highway so that it looks more beautiful.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, kaola also wishes to know the status regarding the Land Code, Strata Act and its effect on foreign investment. These lands are almost entirely owned by local citizens but the developers are non-citizens. Since the Land Code, Strata Act 2025, kaola understands that several private projects intended to be developed by the private sector have now stopped because there are still issues regarding land use and so on. And next kaola would like to ask the status of permission to carry out small enterprises, cottage industry, that are family based in housing areas. This matter was raised in the previous sitting with the aim of encouraging small enterprises in private homes in the country's housing areas while complying with regulations so that the enterprise does not disturb neighbours and the peace of the housing area. In the previous sitting, this Council informed us that this matter was under consideration and insya Allah the outcome of that discussion would be stated. But we are still waiting, I mean the public is still waiting for further developments.
Lastly, kaola would like to ask about works to repair roads that are already damaged and potholed. However, this matter has already been explained by Yang Berhormat Menteri in Yang Berhormat Menteri's presentation the other day, so kaola will not ask further. That is all Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola would like to debate Code SK03A Account 1216/011 - Enhancing the Level of Road Safety. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola would like to draw the ministry's attention to the increasingly worrying condition of roads in several villages throughout the country which require immediate action.
Complaints from residents are no longer a new matter. Among the main recurring issues are potholes and subsidence, which clearly endanger users, drainage systems that do not function causing flash floods, as well as delays in repair works even though complaints were submitted long ago. The question is how long will this continue without a comprehensive solution. In this regard, kaola would like to obtain clarification:
First, what are the ministry's short-term and long-term action plans in addressing village road maintenance problems systematically and not merely on a temporary basis. Second, does the ministry have a truly effective periodic monitoring system to ensure that road conditions in rural areas are always safe and maintained. Third, what quality control mechanisms are implemented on contractors given that some repairs do not last long and raise questions regarding the effectiveness of the use of public allocations. Fourth, with development in village areas becoming increasingly rapid while basic facilities such as roads, drainage systems and street lights still lag behind, what concrete measures and additional allocations will be provided to ensure that this infrastructure development is aligned with the needs of the people.
Kaola would also like to stress that this issue is not merely a matter of convenience but involves user safety, the smooth running of the economic activities of village residents and the well-being of the people as a whole. Therefore, kaola suggests that a more responsive and transparent complaint mechanism be established so that small issues can be dealt with immediately before becoming more serious problems. That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola refers to 2 codes under Title SK03A Public Works Department. The first refers to the objective of the Building and Facility Asset Management Programme, Code 003/000 with expenditure of BND35.6 million which emphasises efficient management of government assets, mechanical and electrical systems proactively and based on data.
In this matter, kaola would like to obtain clarification from the ministry regarding the status of asset condition assessment for government buildings. Does the ministry have a complete, up-to-date and auditable asset condition index for those requiring immediate intervention?
Second, to what extent is the use of technologies such as Internet of Things, monitoring sensors, digital facility management systems and maintenance automation being applied to improve data accuracy and cost reduction? The next second matter kaola refers to the large allocation of BND63.7 million channelled to the Infrastructure Network Management and Development Programme, Code 002/000 which shows the government's commitment to provide quality, efficient and cost-effective infrastructure. However, in the context of increasingly extreme and uncertain climate change, the phenomena of flash floods, landslides and erosion are now occurring more frequently.
National infrastructure that was built long ago may no longer be suitable to face these risk challenges and this tests the country's preparedness. Therefore, kaola seeks clarification on the extent to which the ministry has implemented a comprehensive climate risk assessment on all of the country's critical infrastructure including roads, bridges, drainage and government buildings in order to identify its impact on the country's socio-economy? And to what extent is the ministry adapting international construction standards to the country's infrastructure and construction projects and when is the country expected to achieve a 100 per cent level of adaptation of these standards.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
Communication between leaders and the public during crises is extremely important. The people very much need authentic and up-to-date information directly from the authorities. In this regard kaola seek clarification whether the ministry has a clear crisis communication protocol to be activated when facing major incidents? This is important not only for the Ministry of Development but also for the entire government administrative machinery to ensure transparency and accountability as well as to avoid widespread speculation and increase public confidence in the government.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Infrastructure and government assets are the foundation of the people's well-being. Physical resilience must go hand in hand with clarity of communication. Kaola am confident the ministry will give high commitment to these efforts in order to ensure the safety, continuity of life and peace of the people are always preserved. That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin​
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi who is wise and Your Honourable Members.
Title 1205, namely Enhancing the Provision of National Housing, specifically the issues of issuing Occupancy Permit and the process of land titling for houses in Rancangan Perumahan Negara, RPN. These two issues are related to the issue of housing safety and the well-being of the owners and occupants. Regarding the issue of OP issuance, kaola's question is what is the Standard of Procedure for issuing OP for RPN houses that have already been completed? Kaola has received complaints from a number of homeowners in RPN areas who had only just received their keys, that repair works were carried out by the contractor during the defect liability period, whereas the defects whose photos were shared with kaola were not minor in value. Kaola also received information that the Department of Housing Development had already made reports for any damage to be repaired before it was handed over to the approved recipients.
As for the issue of land titling for RPN house lots, there are owners who wish to apply for government loan but their intention to extend their houses has been hindered due to the land titling process taking quite a long time. In reality, some of them could not bear waiting and used unregistered contractors, resulting in standards, design and structures that are uncontrolled. Kaola's question is, has the Land Department not considered looking into this matter to expedite the process?
Secondly is Title 1213, namely Strengthening ICT Infrastructure, Information Technology and Infocommunications, IT Unit. This project has been undertaken for several years and BND392,394.00 was spent in Financial Year 2025/2026 and BND1,614,900.00 is allocated for Financial Year 2026/2027. Kaola understands that the project to digitalise processes at the Land Department throughout the country is in its final phase before being launched. Kaola's question is whether with this system later, it will improve the TPOR of the Land Department and whether the waiting time for the public and private sector for application processes such as transfer of ownership, land titling, leasing government land by companies and foreign investors for development projects and so on will be much shorter than before?
Thirdly is Title 1216-000, namely Road Infrastructure Projects, specifically regarding the issue of potholes, potholes. This occurs not only on single-lane roads but also on highways in this country. These holes are repaired by patching using asphalt mixture, asphalt bitumen mix according to the existing design, causing some road surfaces to be uneven and some holes what our people call unexpectedly jarring.
The effect is that some drivers are seen hitting those holes and vehicle damage occurs, some drive swerving here and there trying to avoid the holes and uneven roads, and this is an issue that can cause road accidents to occur. Kaola believes this happens for a reason, and one reason kaola believes is due to global climate change, which also affects this country. Road surfaces exposed to various climatic conditions such as excessive heat, cold, rain, standing water due to continuous rain, and the increasing number of vehicles cause the existing asphalt mixture to need to be studied for its strength and resistance to the effects of this climate change.
Kaola's question is, is there no plan by the Ministry of Development to use design standard methods with laboratory testing for a better asphalt mixture more suitable to the issue of climate change at present? Kaola believes that with an asphalt recipe mixture that is more dynamic, government expenditure on the maintenance patching works currently being carried out will be reduced. With the permission of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi who is wise, to finish this one point.
The fourth and last is Title 1215, namely Addressing the Risk of Natural Disasters to Public Facilities and the Environment, specifically regarding fairly deep standing water which we refer to as flooded roads with drainage channels at the roadside.
This issue of fairly deep standing water occurs during heavy and continuous rainy seasons. For the information of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, this matter has previously been raised in this august Council for the Public Works Department to conduct a study or amendments to the Standard Guideline Design of Roadside Drain or Stormwater Drain throughout the country by taking into account the issue of unpredictable climate change. Kaola's question is, what action has already been taken and what are the results from it? And my apologies once again Yang Berhormat Pengerusi who is wise for taking a little time. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
I invite Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof.
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 Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Kaola will not raise issues that have already been raised by Your Honourable Members, but kaola would like to raise 3 issues here.
Firstly, touching on the Ministry of Development SK01A under sub-title 1213-015 strengthening ICT Integrated MOD Platform infrastructure. As understood, the MOD Integrated MOD Platform and Land System project is in the process of implementation with the aim of uniting all services of the Ministry of Development under one system to facilitate management and revenue collection payments. The allocation for strengthening ICT infrastructure under account 1213-015 has increased significantly from BND88 thousand in 2025/2026 to BND1.5 million in 2026/2027 with the total overall project cost being very large, reaching BND16.8 million. Here kaola would like to seek clarification, how far has the implementation of this project progressed? Nevertheless, it is very important that coordination be given attention in order to avoid any duplication of existing digital systems which may be integrated more efficiently. With such an approach, it would certainly be more economical and cost effective for the government.
Second, under Title SK08A, the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation under Title 004/000 Management of Control and Pollution. What we all know together and how many times kaola has raised it is that JASTRE's mission is to preserve and maintain a clean, green and safe environment. It is also understood that the Ministry of Development is planning a Waste-To-Energy System project which is expected to operate in 2029. With the implementation of a project like this, insya Allah it will elevate the country to be on par with international countries. It will also fulfil the standards outlined by WHO, namely the World Health Organization, and also achieve the SDG12 goal of Responsible Consumption in Production.
In this regard, kaola would like to know what is the status of the progress of improvement and enhancement measures in transforming the management system for the collection and disposal of solid waste including solid waste, chemical waste and medical waste in order to increase environmental sustainability that is resilient, green, clean and safe while avoiding any risk of pollution and negative impact.
Thirdly, kaola would like to refer to Title SK08A, the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, Code 005/000 - Environmental Management and Planning. Where among the programme objectives is to enforce the requirement for Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA, in implementing projects and to provide related guidelines.
What kaola has received as feedback, especially from operators involved in the agriculture and livestock sectors, is that among the challenges faced by them in obtaining permits is having to undergo the EIA process under JASTRE which takes a very long time, up to 7 to 8 months.
This results in various risks not only in terms of losses but also, more importantly, delays in starting the enterprise. To overcome this problem, what are the improvement measures and procedures for processing such applications as a supervisory agency, regulator and facilitator to encourage more local entrepreneurs involved in the agriculture and livestock sectors. With that, I thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir.
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. Kaola would like to touch on Title SK01A Ministry of Development. Here kaola has taken note regarding this matter of safety, which was also raised by colleagues earlier. However, kaola would like to ask regarding the government's planning in carrying out road upgrading works, especially the SHOAS Bridge road.
In this matter, for the safety of road users, especially residents in Temburong District who often use the bridge in Temburong District or that SHOAS bridge, there is damage that occurs frequently. Therefore in this matter, what are the government's long-term and short-term plans to improve the level of safety for road users? In addition, kaola would also like to know what improvement measures are being or will be implemented, including in terms of periodic maintenance, enhancement of road structure, as well as the use of technology or higher-quality construction methods to ensure road durability in the long term.
That is all Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya'akub.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya'akub​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Your Honourable Members. Kaola touches on Title SK01A - Ministry of Development. Kaola is pleased to raise an issue specifically related to the well-being and safety of residents in rural areas.
On this occasion, kaola would like to draw the attention of Yang Berhormat Menteri to the need to upgrade basic infrastructure, especially roads, in areas frequently affected by floods in Tutong District.
Among the areas identified as frequently affected include Kampong Ukong, Kampong Bukit, Jalan Penapar Ukong, and the Tutong Town area. The condition of roads in these areas, being low-lying and easily inundated, affects the daily movement of residents and even endangers the safety of road users, especially during the rainy season and tidal phenomena. This problem is also seen as closely related to overflow from the Tutong River as well as seawater intrusion at the river mouth area, further contributing to flooding incidents that are occurring more frequently.
In this regard, kaola would like to suggest that flood mitigation measures be implemented comprehensively and in an integrated manner. Among the proposals that may be considered are upgrading road levels in low-lying areas frequently affected; secondly, resurfacing roads damaged by floods; thirdly, repairing and upgrading the existing drainage system so that it is better; fourthly, the construction and extension of river embankments in strategic areas such as Kampong Ukong and along the banks of the Tutong River to control erosion and water overflow.
In addition, the construction of water control structures in river mouth areas such as sluice gates to control sea tides should also be considered. Besides that, providing a more effective drainage and water retention system as well as the construction of water pump systems in critical areas such as around Kampung Bukit Mosque and Tutong Town is seen as capable of helping reduce flood risk more effectively. These efforts are not only important to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, but also support local economic development, including tourism potential in rural areas which is increasingly attracting attention.
Accordingly, kaola seeks clarification from Yang Berhormat Menteri, to what extent is the ministry planning to implement these flood mitigation and road upgrading projects in stages, especially in the areas that kaola has mentioned earlier? Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
I only have one comment, Yang Berhormat, regarding matters such as flooding, which indeed strikes, what is it called, affects villages and causes hardship or harm to the livelihood of the village residents. But has it not occurred to anyone that matters like this can be brought to the District Office or brought directly to the relevant ministry and during the available sessions, the briefings that are provided, such matters could perhaps be answered accurately and promptly. Here we are considering the budgets of the relevant ministries as a whole.
So I think it would perhaps be more appropriate if such matters could be flagged as matters that can be directly claimed to the relevant parties without waiting for you. What is it called, for us to be considering this budget, at a time when we are rushing over our budget.
So indeed what has been voiced may be important regarding flooding, the people in villages affected by flooding face the issues mentioned by Your Honourable Members, but such matters need not, I think, be waited on for us to meet like this before they are brought into the Legislative Council.
I advise that such matters perhaps be submitted to the District Officer and ask the District Officer to present them to the relevant ministries or at another level bring them to councils that are more, as people say, more effective as a place where we can obtain precise answers. Thus, with such a course, we will be able to resolve important matters like that through the relevant parties.
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan.
Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. Kaola would like to touch on Heading SK01A - Ministry of Development. Kaola would like to raise an issue related to Environmental Sustainability, namely the recycling initiative in this country. On this occasion, kaola would like to put forward several questions to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pembangunan regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the recycling programme that has been introduced.
As I understand it, the recycling initiative has long been implemented and is one of the efforts to reduce solid waste and preserve the environment. However, in kaola's observation, its implementation is still not comprehensive and has not yet reached a satisfactory level. For example, kaola finds that recycling bins are still not placed widely, whether in public places, residential areas or supermarkets. This lack of facilities indirectly makes it difficult for the public to practise waste separation and a recycling culture. In this regard, kaola would like clarification on several matters:
What are the ministry's latest plans to expand the provision of recycling facilities, particularly waste separation bins at strategic locations such as public places, educational institutions and shopping centres? Second, is there more active cooperation with the private sector such as supermarkets and business premises operators to provide recycling facilities for users? Third, to what extent have the public awareness campaigns conducted succeeded in increasing recycling practices among the community? And furthermore, does the ministry have clear targets or achievement indicators in increasing the recycling rate in this country?
In kaola's view, to ensure that this initiative is more effective, it is appropriate to consider several additional approaches including the provision of more systematic and easily accessible recycling bins. The introduction of initiatives to the public and the practice of recycling, the implementation of more aggressive educational programmes as well as stricter enforcement on waste management. Kaola hopes that efforts to strengthen this recycling initiative will continue to be enhanced comprehensively and in an integrated manner in order to ensure environmental sustainability and recycling for future generations. That is all, I seek clarification on this matter. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
And Yang Berhormat Awang Lawi bin Haji Lamat.
Yang Berhormat Awang Lawi bin Haji Lamat​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Kaola would like to debate SK03A - Department of Water Services. Kaola would like to draw attention to the issue of delays in receiving water supply frequently experienced by residents of Kampung Subok and Kampung Belimbing in particular, and by some village residents in Brunei-Muara District in general, when major breakdowns occur. This problem stems from the location of the water storage tank situated at the tail end, as informed to kaola, causing water to arrive late to fill the tank so that it takes several days before supply is received after repairs are completed. This issue is not new. To address this problem, kaola would like to suggest several measures for consideration.
First, the addition of pumps; the installation of additional pumps can increase water pressure so that supply arrives more quickly. Second, the construction of a new tank in Kampung Belimbing through the water source at Mengkubau Plant as a back-up when major breakdowns occur. Third, repairing the Tasek Lama Clean Water Treatment Plant so that water supply in part of Brunei-Muara District does not depend only on Bukit Barun and Layong Water Treatment Plants. Fourth, providing sufficient water tanker services so as to meet water delivery demand and without favouritism. And fifth, the ministry's long-term plan can conduct a study on capacity and sustainable water infrastructure development including the integration of alternative water sources to ensure sufficient supply for future population growth.
These measures will not only resolve the immediate water issue but also ensure a more flexible, sustainable and resilient flow system against future disruptions. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, I hope the ministry will seriously consider these proposals and announce the implementation plan including the timeframe and allocation so that village residents will no longer experience delays in water supply that affect their daily lives. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you Your Honourable Members. Now I will give the floor to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pembangunan to provide his comments or response to several matters raised earlier by the Appointed Your Honourable Members. I now invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Pembangunan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pembangunan​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy and blessings, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
First of all, kaola would like to support the view conveyed by Yang Berhormat Pengerusi earlier, regarding several suitable venue_s for conveying many of the matters presented here. The matters presented in this session are indeed seen to be _very detail, very scientific, some of them very surgical and highly impressive, so within the time provided, kaola feels I will not have enough time to answer all of these questions.
From that as well, kaola supports the suggestion of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi earlier on the several venue_s available to us, because we also hold muzakarah sessions and during these sessions the communication _channel-channel with officers at the ministry are also shared regarding issues involving the services of the Ministry of Development, the Public Works Department, with the officers at the ministry including heads of department, Permanent Secretaries and Deputy Permanent Secretaries.
Whatever matters require faster action where they involve repairs, whether related to safety, so that those matters can be communicated directly to the officers who have been designated.
Where kaola also believes that Your Honourable Members there also have the _contact-contact number_s for the officers at the Ministry of Development. So kaola only sees that from the time allocated and with the questions raised, kaola will only be able to touch on a few matters that kaola think there is time to explain here.
First of all, regarding the first Honourable Member earlier on ways to further expedite the provision of houses, whereby the Ministry of Development through the Housing Development Department has been entrusted with the provision of these houses. There were several very good suggestions conveyed, among them to provide low-cost single-storey houses so that they can be provided more quickly. Within the targets made and the plans already in place, since 2022 a total of 1,586 houses have been allocated to applicants.
And a total of 427 recipients have been granted Temporary Occupation Licence land titles to enable them to continue occupying government land which was initially given temporarily and then granted title so as to enable them to own these houses by the consent and award of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam. And in continuing to target the commitment of the Housing Development Department, at present there are five housing projects involving about 2,596 terraced housing units under implementation, including Projek RPN Kampung Tanah Jambu Fasa 7 totaling 950 units which is expected to be completed in July 2026. With the completion of this phase, the Kampung Tanah Jambu National Housing area will emerge as one of the largest RPN developments linking Mentiri and Lambak Kanan, while at the same time forming a more organised community with complete infrastructure facilities.
In addition, other planned projects include Perumahan Negara Kampung Lugu Fasa 2B, 576 terraced housing units, Perumahan Negara Kampung Rimba Fasa 6 totaling 330 terraced housing units, Perumahan Negara Kampung Salambigar, 300 terraced housing units and Perumahan Negara Kampung Lumut Fasa 7, 400 terraced housing units, where the preliminary works are included in the allocation provided under RKN12 at present. Some of these projects are currently in the preparation process and implementation of tenders for soil investigation works before the construction of houses and other infrastructure can begin.
Apart from that, regarding methods to further accelerate efforts to produce these houses that can be provided, in addition to those efforts, the ministry is currently taking the approach of looking at the suitability of several proposals that have been presented in this august council over the past few years, which are often discussed, namely Public Private Partnership.
This effort has indeed been undertaken by several consortium company, especially those representing foreign consortium, and indeed we have met and sat together with them to see where it can achieve our aim and intention as a PPP. And this matter is not a straightforward and easy matter to reach agreement on because these consortium are also seen as profit making enterprises that may not necessarily accept any PPP proposal where they see the return of the investment as taking a long time.
So this matter is among the challenges faced. Apart from that, one effort is currently being actively undertaken with domestic investors; we are still unable to share the information at this time, as this is subject to the eventual outcome of these discussions later. But, God willing, if there is success from the discussions and negotiations on this matter, it will certainly be shared later. That is the effort that can be made and conveyed so far, that the matter regarding efforts to speed up the production of these houses to meet the demand of the people of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia is indeed being and will continue to be pursued until we can reach an agreement that is acceptable and does not affect any interests of the Government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia.
Apart from that, attention is also being given to existing housing areas including RPN and Skim Tanah Kurnia Rakyat Jati through several matters that are still pending, especially as mentioned by one of the Honourable Members earlier, regarding the housing in Mengkubau, which previously went through several arbitration sessions involving the developer that built those houses earlier. And that is also what caused this matter not to be implemented in terms of repairing those houses until there is a determination to take the necessary actions.
So this matter has not simply been left as it is, whereby those affected, the recipients whose houses were affected, rather these matters have been mitigated, where those recipients were offered alternative houses while awaiting the outcome of the arbitration in order to repair those houses later once the decision from the arbitration side is finalised, which still needs to be received and/or awaited as to its outcome. That is the current situation regarding the houses in Mengkubau.
Apart from that, several other infrastructure matters involving Skim Tanah Kurnia Rakyat Jati, for example in Kampung Bukit Beruang Tutong and in other areas. Indeed, works to upgrade the drainage system, resurface internal roads and repair public facilities have been carried out. This includes works to upgrade drains in the housing areas and also in the RPN Kg. Rataie housing area in Temburong District which had previously experienced an incident of flash floods in those areas. Overall, these efforts constitute continuous measures that will be expanded to all housing areas under the National Development Plan to further improve comfort in the infrastructure under the care and maintenance of the Housing Development Department.
Next, regarding matters involving road repairs as raised by several Honourable Members earlier, concerning the condition of damaged pothole-ridden roads that are not maintained immediately and also the length of time taken to repair the damage, which is too long and can invite accidents and affect the smooth flow of movement.
And kaola also thank for several suggestions made regarding quick repair technology or immediate patching materials as conveyed earlier to improve the use of an integrated digital complaint monitoring system and smart applications to enable the public to report damage directly and also through the channel as kaola conveyed earlier which can communicate directly to the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development and also to the Director of the Roads Department regarding matters involving these roads.
In terms of current implementation, road maintenance works are carried out through term contracts or scheduled repair projects as kaola have explained in the previous session, there are 18 road repair projects that have been and are being implemented. A total of 11 contracts have been completed involving approximately 16.8 kilometres of main roads. This includes the repair of Jalan Mentiri, Kota Batu which has been completed. Meanwhile, the remainder are in the implementation, evaluation and retendering stages involving an additional 26.3 kilometres of repairs.
However, the ministry is aware that there are several challenges contributing to delays, among them the need for technical coordination and underground utilities, uncertain weather conditions as well as the need to ensure the quality of work meets the specified standards. In this regard, several improvement measures are being and will be implemented to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of the road maintenance system.
First is strengthening repair priorities based on the level of risk and impact on users, especially on main routes; second, streamlining response time through periodic monitoring; and third, the ministry is also examining the use of new technology in repair and resurfacing works to ensure road durability, in line as well with several suggestions conveyed earlier; first is the use of asphalt fiber reinforcement or fiber in asphalt mixtures to improve the durability of the asphalt layer against cracking and undulating roads.
Second, the installation of fiber glass reinforcement grit aims to increase the strength of the road structural base so that it is more resistant to traffic loads, thereby preventing uneven roads, cracks and so on. Third, the use of polymers in the road base mixture. This is to produce a layer that improves resistance to water and traffic loads, which is expected to reduce damage such as potholes, cracks and so on. And fourth, in terms of service delivery, the ministry is also strengthening complaint and monitoring channels to enable information on damage to be conveyed more quickly and systematically.
Kaola in this matter take positively the suggestion from the Honourable Member earlier, so that a complaint receiving system can be established to improve the existing situation. Apart from that, kaola, well, also thinking that the time given has already passed, so if possible kaola seek that these questions be answered in writing with the permission of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Menteri Pembangunan, taking note that any question that has not been answered precisely will be answered in writing to the relevant Your Honourable Members. Therefore, I think that is sufficient for our deliberation on this title. It would be better if we now vote on this title.
Your Honourable Members who agree, please raise your hands.
(All Members raised their hands as a sign of agreement)
Thank you. It appears all Members agree, therefore Title SK01A to SK08A Ministry of Development are approved.
(Gavel struck)
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Title SK01A to SK08A are made part of the Schedule. Title SL01A to Title SL06A Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. I think it is appropriate for us to take a 15-minute break and the meeting will resume after that.
(Committee Meeting adjourned briefly)
(Committee Meeting resumed)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. The Committee now proceeds to discuss Title SL01A to Title SL06A Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan.
Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola would like to touch on Title SL01A - Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
Kaola wishes to raise a very important matter, namely in relation to efforts to preserve and safeguard the customs and cultural heritage of Negara Brunei Darussalam. On this occasion, kaola would like to put forward several questions to Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan regarding cultural preservation initiatives that are not only performative in nature but also practical and able to be widely utilised by the public.
As we are all aware, customs and cultural heritage are often highlighted through official performances, cultural events and certain programmes. However, in kaola’s view, this effort should not be limited to the aspect of performances alone, but must also be expanded so that the culture can be brought to life and practised in the daily lives of the community. For example, cultural items such as traditional clothing, ceremonial equipment, reference materials and related necessities are often limited and owned only by certain individuals, and are then borrowed or rented out for certain purposes.
This situation indirectly limits public access, especially for the younger generation who wish to learn and appreciate the culture. In this regard, kaola would like clarification: are there any initiatives from the ministry to provide a resource centre or cultural hub that gathers ceremonial items, reference materials and traditional equipment that can be accessed by the public? Secondly, does the ministry intend to establish a structured borrowing system or usage system for cultural facilities so that the public does not depend entirely on certain individuals? Thirdly, to what extent are support and cooperation with cultural activists, associations and local communities being implemented to ensure that this heritage continues to grow and does not come to a halt? And further, what measures are being taken to ensure that the youth generation becomes more actively involved, not only as spectators but as practitioners of the culture itself? In kaola’s view, without comprehensive support and sufficient facilities, efforts to preserve these customs may be hindered and remain merely as a spectacle without true appreciation among the public. That is all, thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir.
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola would like to propose that the ministry examine the need to develop a modern Multipurpose Sports Complex in Temburong District. Kaola has in fact proposed this matter before as well. At present, large-scale and modern sports facilities in the district are still limited, whereas the potential for youth development and the sports industry in Temburong District is very great. With the existence of a multipurpose sports building, various activities such as sports tournaments, athlete training, youth development programmes as well as community recreational activities can be carried out in a more organised manner.
In addition, this facility can also be utilised for wedding ceremonies, exhibitions, community events and community programmes, while at the same time optimising facility development, generating income and supporting local economic growth. In this regard, kaola would like to ask the ministry whether there are any short-term or long-term plans to develop a modern multipurpose sports complex in Temburong District and if so, what is the status and direction of the planning? That is all, thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
It was already asked before, Yang Berhormat. It was already asked before, what was the answer previously?
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir​
Kaola, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. The answer was that it would be considered. So kaola would like to ask again.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat, in the long-term plan or in the short-term plan?
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir​
In the long and short term, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you. I invite Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah the Exalted and His blessings, and greetings.
Kaola would like to touch on Program Khidmat Bakti Negara, Code 006/000, known by the abbreviation PKBN, which produces youths who are responsible, disciplined, dynamic, united and resilient, and who contribute to the country’s socioeconomic development and strengthen national resilience. The number of youths who participate in this programme is around 200, 300 to 500 people a year. Praise be to Allah, this programme has attracted a great deal of interest from school leavers with satisfying results.
Kaola would like to propose that if additional allocation can be applied for, programmes such as this can also be held for youths, especially those with qualifications and waiting to enter employment, so that they not only have patriotic spirit, are dynamic and responsible and possess strong identity, but are also guided through training in specific fields such as skill training, focusing on in demand skills such as digital literacy, entrepreneurship and industry specific skills.
During that period, at least six months if they are still unemployed, they would have the opportunity to build self-development, namely personal development such as self-confidence, personal bearing, leadership qualities, teamwork spirit and communication skills to increase their employability. Those who go through this programme will be more ready to work because they possess practical experience and skills, and they will also have networking opportunities when placed with certain companies.
Kaola is of the opinion that we do not lack experts or experienced officers who can become mentors to such youths so that they are job ready, truly job ready when employment is offered to them. A programme like this, kaola believes, will provide added value to existing programmes and to youths when applying for jobs later.
Next, kaola would like to refer to Code 003/000 Sports Development and Coaching Services with an allocation of BND2,027,410. The related Key Performance Indicator, namely the number of new and high-performing talents in sports including national athletes, is estimated to increase from 1 to 5 per cent over the next three to four years. Kaola is of the opinion that this estimate is low and, in kaola’s view, less ambitious. Kaola would like clarification on what factors have caused this estimate to be low.
Is it due to insufficient sports infrastructure, the absence of infrastructure or difficulty in finding new talent, lack of training and absence of coaching and so on? And how will we represent the country in international competitions if this situation continues? So kaola seeks clarification, why is our estimate not targeted higher, so that we can be more competitive in international competitions? That is all Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola refers to Title SL06A Community Development Department, JAPEM, for services for Persons with Special Needs with an allocation of BND1.4 million.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
The issue of Persons with Disabilities should not be seen merely as a welfare issue. It is an issue of human development, fundamental rights and survival. Persons with disabilities are special individuals who are also capable of being independent and contributing to society and the country like the rest of us. For them, independence includes the availability of employment opportunities, mobility to move about easily, as well as society’s acceptance for them to live and contribute with dignity. This is the true hope of parents, that these special children will be able to stand on their own when their parents are no longer around.
Kaola is pleased to draw the attention of Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members to the outcome of kaola’s dialogue session with the Members of the Council for the Well-Being of Persons with Disabilities, MKOKU, regarding the issues of accessibility and mobility, the absence of an official OKU card, limited job opportunities and skills training, as well as social stigma and enforcement of facilities for OKU, which remain the main challenges faced by this group in achieving the goal of independent living.
Although not all of these challenges fall under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports or JAPEM, nevertheless, as the department clearly responsible for services for Persons with Special Needs in this country, kaola is of the view that JAPEM plays the role of the main coordinator of development efforts and support for this group across ministries and agencies in this country.
In this regard, kaola would like to seek clarification, what are the ministry’s initiatives to ensure that relevant agencies act proactively to address the challenges that hinder the independence of this special group? How does the ministry strengthen JAPEM’s role as the main coordinator across ministries and agencies to ensure that all planned programmes and national development policies take into account the needs of and are directed towards the independence of persons with disabilities?
And lastly, given that employment is the main key to the independence of this group and to ensure fairness and inclusivity in government policies in the provision of employment opportunities, will the ministry consider other approaches such as the formulation of stronger policies in cooperation with relevant agencies, taking into account the employment of this group to serve in the public service and private sector according to their abilities?
That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Kaola would like to debate Code 004/000 - Strengthening the Family Institution, touching on the issue of Child Care Centres.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Kaola would like to draw attention to the implementation of the act and regulations that have been issued by the Community Development Department relating to the age limit for child care centres, where at present we do not allow the admission of children aged 3 years and above. Kaola understands that every policy introduced is aimed at ensuring that the welfare, safety and development of children are always safeguarded.
However, in the current context, the implementation of this age limit has created major challenges for some parents, especially those who work full-time. The reality is that many children aged 4 to 5 years have already started school at the kindergarten level, but school sessions usually only last half a day. After that time, parents still need a safe and controlled place of care until the end of working hours. Under the current regulations which limit child care centres to children aged 3 years and below, parents are forced to seek alternatives that are sometimes unregistered or less supervised, which may pose greater risks in terms of the safety and welfare of the children themselves.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Kaola would like to request an explanation, what is the main rationale or policy consideration underlying the setting of that age limit? Is it based on safety factors, lack of facilities, caregiver-to-child ratio, or overlap of functions with early childhood education institutions? For information, compulsory education in our country begins from the age of 5. This means there is a gap between ages 3 to 5 where the need for daily care is still high.
In this regard, I am of the view that this policy should be comprehensively reviewed by taking into account, first, the actual needs of society today, especially the increasing number of working parents. Second, the possibility of introducing a new category such as after-school care centres for children aged 4 to 6 years with clear safety guidelines and strict regulatory standards. And third, the setting of additional conditions such as appropriate child care ratios, safe learning spaces and special training for caregivers for the preschool age group.
This approach does not mean loosening control measures but adapting policy to current social and economic realities. In fact, by allowing registered care centres to accept children aged 4 to 5 years in a controlled manner, the government can ensure better monitoring compared to if parents are forced to use informal services.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Our goal is to protect the best interests of children while at the same time facilitating matters for working families. Good policy must be responsive, flexible and centred on the well-being of the people. With full respect, I propose that a review of the act or regulations relating to the age limit of these care centres be considered immediately, including engagement sessions with care centre operators and affected parents. May a balanced solution be achieved for the welfare of children and the well-being of families in this country.
That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola would like to touch on Programme 004/000 Youth and Sports Development.
First, in the direction of the youth sector, one of the priority focuses given is the strengthening of the youth entrepreneurship ecosystem which is geared towards increasing youth entrepreneurship activities. So far, we have been informed that 600 participants have been absorbed into this entrepreneurial activity. Kaola would like to seek clarification, from this number what percentage is considered to have truly succeeded in becoming entrepreneurs and what forms of monitoring and skills assistance, for example such as strengthening digital capability, are extended to successful youth entrepreneurs? This is because strengthening digital capability is considered one of the keys to driving the growth and innovation of MSMEs;
Second, kaola observes that in encouraging the nation's youths to venture into entrepreneurship, various agencies have offered all kinds of initiatives and entrepreneurial opportunities through training programmes, skills enhancement and grant assistance, financial assistance and others. Alhamdulillah, this is a good initiative, however, kaola would like to seek clarification, is there any plan by the relevant authorities to establish a special body or a specific body, namely a central agency, that will act to plan policies and regulations, implement, integrate and align all these programmes for strengthening the youth entrepreneurship ecosystem, including skills training and access to modelling?
This step, in kaola's view, will not only save financial and manpower resources, but also streamline process as well as avoid overlapping responsibilities and initiatives related to the overall development of youth entrepreneurship; and
Third, kaola is interested in one of the ministry's directions which is geared towards empowering the national sports ecosystem. Kaola welcomes this initiative if it is implemented in an orderly manner with sufficient resources and strong support from all parties. Kaola believes that the nation's sports, God willing, will achieve the excellence that is aspired to. It is just that up to now what we observe is that the investment and incentives provided to enhance athletes are not yet very prominent, still considered minimal and still insufficient. This also includes efforts to provide sports facilities for public use. In this matter, kaola would like to seek clarification, is there any ministry plan to identify suitable sites to be leased to the private sector or youth cooperative companies to build and manage sports facilities commercially for users who need them. Kaola raises this matter in view of the increasing demand for these facilities especially among youths in particular and local residents who practise a healthy lifestyle in this country.
And lastly, kaola would like to touch on Code 002/002 - General Welfare Assistance under the Department of Community Development, SL06A. Koala observes that in this Financial Year 2026/2027 Budget the amount proposed to be provided under this heading has decreased from about BND12 million last year to only BND8.7 million this year. Koala seeks clarification on what the main reason is for this reduction. Does this mean that the number of parties seeking this assistance has decreased.
That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed.
Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Under the allocation of more than BND18 million for the Department of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports as well as more than BND18 million for the Department of Community Development.
Koala would like to raise the issue of the preparedness of the support structure for senior citizens, particularly in facing the increasingly significant rise in population. With the increase in senior citizens now exceeding 10 per cent, to what extent is the existing allocation truly sufficient to address the increasingly complex needs especially for those who live alone or have limited support during the day. At the same time, how is this support approach implemented more proactively at the community level so that assistance does not only depend on complaints or situations that have already become serious.
In this matter as well, to what extent is the role of village heads in the community network being utilised in a more structured way to identify at-risk senior citizens earlier, given that the existing village structure is a strength that can be mobilised more effectively. From the coordination aspect, how is the relationship between social support and health referrals strengthened given that the majority of senior citizens require continuous monitoring and not just a one-off intervention.
In addition, what form of support is given to caregiving families who are now bearing dual responsibilities so that the burden of care can be reduced in a more balanced manner. Finally, to what extent are all current allocations truly growing in line with changes in the population structure given that the increase in senior citizens is a long-term change that requires commensurate capacity.
As a suggestion, perhaps a more structured approach at the village level may be considered with the establishment of a clear periodic monitoring system for senior citizens who live alone or are at risk, supported by a faster referral mechanism between village heads, the Department of Community Development and health services.
This approach is important to ensure that support does not only depend on informal information or case reports, but can identify needs earlier before situations become more serious while ensuring more consistent and continuous intervention. That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
And Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola refers to Code 002/000 - General Assistance Services and Empowering Welfare Assistance Recipients with an allocation of BND10.9 million.
Kaola would like to express appreciation for the allocation provided to ensure welfare assistance continues to be channelled to the target groups including senior citizens, the poor, disaster victims as well as persons with disabilities, namely vulnerable groups. In line with the aspirations of the Negara Brunei Darussalam Social Blueprint which emphasises the development of a society that is self-reliant, resilient and progressive, kaola would like to seek several further explanations and clarifications from the ministry in relation to:
First, the transformation of the State Welfare System Data, SKN. Kaola records appreciation for the implementation of SKN and the use of analysis Power Business Intelligence which has successfully provided a transparent poverty map. However, to ensure that this digital data reflects the actual reality, kaola would like to seek clarification on the extent to which this data is used for prioritization, prioritising assistance in a focused manner. Is there a mechanism for physical verification, ground verification, on a regular basis to ensure that the allocation is optimised and truly reaches those in need.
Second, the empowerment strategy for 7,375 recipients who are able to work. Kaola notes the April 2024 statistics showing that 7,375 out of 10,014 monthly assistance recipients consist of healthy and capable individuals, namely able-bodied. This is a large labour potential. How is this BND10.9 million allocation structured to differentiate between assistance for permanently vulnerable groups such as senior citizens and persons with disabilities and strategic investment for groups with the potential to be self-reliant. To what extent does the ministry use a segmented approach, segmented approach?
Is this allocation divided according to their priority profile, their capability? For example, is there a difference in strategy between recipients who only need job matching compared to those who need skills training, reskilling or logistical support such as childcare? This is important to ensure that this healthy group does not continue to be trapped in the dependency trap and can graduate out of the assistance system more quickly.
One of its main aspirations is also to build a caring, inclusive and equitable society. This aspiration emphasises meeting society's needs inclusively to ensure justice and equality towards assured well-being. How much of the allocation is specifically dedicated to diversification of assistance such as the BIBD SEED Programme, Micro Businesses Bootcamp and financial literacy to build self-sustaining capacity? How does the ministry ensure that the assistance provided not only supports basic needs but also plays a role in narrowing the Gini Index income gap through sustainable economic empowerment.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
The foundation of a strong system such as SKN needs to be followed by strengthening the aspects of verification and evaluation based on outcomes, namely outcome-based. This is important to ensure that government allocations do not merely support basic needs but become a catalyst for positive social mobility in line with the aspirations of a self-reliant people who are future-ready. I seek explanation and clarification from the ministry. That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you Your Honourable Members. I will now give the floor to Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan to provide his comments or response to the matters that have just been raised by the Appointed Your Honourable Members earlier. Please proceed Yang Berhormat.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. (Prayer recited). Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola, before trying to answer those questions, would like to try to answer the questions that kaola did not have the opportunity to answer orally this time. God willing, kaola will submit the answers to the Yang Berhormat, Your Honourable Members who have been appointed, in writing.
Kaola would also like to express thanks to the Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat who have raised questions and some of those questions are specific in nature and kaola admits that at this time, in kaola’s mind, it is difficult to provide specific answers because it is rather difficult and challenging for kaola, at kaola’s current level, to obtain the specific details concerned.
So next, before kaola responds and comments on the questions and suggestions that have been put forward, first of all kaola, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, with full respect and reverence, humbly conveys the highest appreciation before the Council to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for the provision of the overall expenditure allocation for Financial Year 2026/2027 amounting to BND94,400,570, namely BND80,451,970 for ordinary expenditure and BND13,949,600 for development expenditure.
Allow kaola to respond to the question from Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir touching on the need to develop a modern multipurpose sports complex in Temburong District. Temburong District indeed, as we all already know, is not excluded from any national development planning; in fact the government, through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, always takes a comprehensive and phased approach in assessing the need for sports infrastructure development by taking into account the level of readiness, current needs as well as the district’s long-term potential.
In this regard, there are several main considerations taken into account in assessing the suitability of building sports infrastructure. First, of course, population size and current needs are matters taken into account; planning for the development of sports facilities is based on the actual needs of the population. As is known, Temburong District has a relatively low population of around 10,000 people compared to other districts. However, the existing sports facilities over the last two Financial Years have indeed only recently undergone an upgrade, namely the sports complex in Temburong District that currently exists. That is in terms of the field and track of the sports complex, and the need to provide large-scale facilities at this time is still under review and needs to be balanced with the level of usage and the effectiveness of long-term investment.
Nevertheless, we always take an open approach should there be interest from investors to invest in developing similar sports facilities. And certainly, from time to time we open up any sports complex or sites in any district. Not only Temburong District, if there is appetite from investors, God willing, this matter will be considered and examined and opened to all parties as fairly as possible.
Second, the inclusive approach of no one is left behind, in Malay, no one will be left behind. In line with the principle of leaving no one behind, the government through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports will continue to ensure access to sports facilities through the upgrading of existing facilities, particularly the Batu Apoi sports complex. This complex has been equipped with various basic facilities such as an athletics track that was recently upgraded as kaola mentioned earlier, a swimming pool, as well as multipurpose courts for sports such as netball, sepak takraw and so on. Besides meeting the needs of the local community, this complex is also capable of hosting various events such as ASEAN Sport Days last year as well as sports tournaments including the national football super league. This shows that the existing facilities remain relevant and are able to effectively accommodate current sporting activity needs.
Third, optimising existing facilities, namely the current strategy at this time is to emphasise the optimum use of existing facilities through a sharing approach, including maximising the use of school halls and community facilities for grassroots sports development. Avoiding duplication in facility development towards more efficient and sustainable use of resources. Encouraging the sharing of facilities for training, tournaments and community activities, thus this approach not only maximises existing resources but also ensures wider access for the public.
Fourth, a collaborative approach with the private sector. The development of sports facilities is also viewed through a collaborative approach with the private sector. The government encourages private sector involvement in developing, managing and maintaining sports facilities, while also having the potential to generate local economic growth and create new employment opportunities. In line with this, the ministry has been and is actively implementing the request work proposal initiative, RFP. This is to open opportunities to private companies to develop sports facilities.
Then, ah sites including ah this are to attract investment from the private sector to develop high-potential sports sites. So, through projects fully financed by the private sector. The land is leased on a lease basis and the company is fully responsible for feasibility studies, design, construction, operation as well as facility maintenance and this initiative has been implemented in phases in several districts such as sites in Kampong Terunjing and Kampong Lambak Kanan as well as in Belait District, the field arena complex and God willing, will further explore extending it to other sites in other districts. The approach taken is holistic and high-impact, with any future development placing emphasis on the multipurpose concept that not only meets the needs of performance sports and athlete development.
But also functions as a community activity centre including the organisation of community events and youth development programmes. Next, touching on the suggestion by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman for further improvements to the Program Khidmat Bakti Negara or PKBN, by involving youths who have left school and are awaiting employment. This suggestion is actually very meaningful and of very high value, especially in our effort to prepare youths to obtain employment as well as the ability to sustain their future lives.
Kaola would like to take this opportunity to share some feedback from the public including from parents and employers resulting from the courses conducted at PKBN, that they have been able to transform these individuals or participants who follow this programme, whether in terms of mindset or way of thinking, physically and in terms of resilience, each individual’s endurance.
In terms of individuals, from feedback from parents it is clear that there are changes from an individual who did not respect his parents to someone who changed completely, 360 degrees, sorry 180 degrees (soft laughter), into an individual who seemed no longer like their child, seemed like another individual, but positively respects parents and so on. From the employers’ side, individuals who often, well, easily gave up, easy giving up, became individuals who are always steadfast, always dedicated, always, as Bruneians would say, individuals who are hardworking in carrying out duties and work. This has clearly been seen throughout our implementation of the Program Jati Diri for the past two or three years. Praise be to Allah, the reception from employers, from the private sector, has been very encouraging.
So in that regard, these programmes, when implemented, do involve high costs for each individual or are estimated to cost around BND3,500 to train them in this programme and this is not a small amount. So the way we view or manage these government resources must be careful and take into account, what is called, the actual needs and how we manage and open these programmes to numbers that are appropriate.
Next kaola would like to answer Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan, who touched on efforts to maintain and preserve the customs and cultural heritage of Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat.
The safeguarding of artistic and cultural heritage is a shared responsibility among all of us, whether at community level, group level or family institution level. Every community should enliven community celebrations with the support of grassroots leadership through districts, mukims and villages through consultative councils. This call kaola has previously informed in last year’s meeting regarding efforts to empower indigenous ethnic communities. The government through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports will continue to implement long-standing initiatives to provide free access to arts and culture activists to obtain the necessary information, including through arts and culture publications, permanent and periodic exhibitions as well as programmes such as cultural journeys and the like.
The ministry through the Culture and Arts Division has also opened the borrowing of cultural materials such as clothing, equipment and collections to associations and educational institutions free of charge on the condition that such participation and borrowing are for the dissemination of arts and heritage and not financial in nature. In 2025, nearly 200 youth associations, ministries and educational institutions benefited from this borrowing facility.
In addition, several series of arts and culture courses and masterclass sessions have been conducted. Let us remind one another that the continuity of heritage does not rest solely on the government. Biskita as penghulu, village heads and community leaders play a major role in ensuring that our children still practise Malay attire correctly, respect elders, speak courteously and continue customs from generation to generation.
Kaola also wishes to emphasise here, as the English saying goes, it takes two to tango. If only we on the side of the earlier generation strive in this matter without the role and response of the new generation, it will not succeed either. So kaola would also like to emphasise to the new generations that this culture is our identity; if our new generation does not take up this baton from the older generation, in the end our children and grandchildren will not know our culture.
So it takes two to tango. When the earlier generation tries to pass on the culture, it needs to be received well and instilled into the generations to come. So, kaola do not wish to exceed the allotted time. Actually, kaola still have much more to touch on regarding these questions, but kaola feel it may be better if kaola answer in writing, perhaps more accurately, so that it does not stray too far from the intention of what was asked. Therefore kaola seek, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, to take such an approach, seek your leave Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan. I think it is best that we now put this title to a vote. Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat who agree, please raise your hands.
(All Members raise their hands in agreement)
It appears that all Members agree, therefore this title is approved.
(Gavel struck)
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Head SL01A to Head SL06A are made part of the Schedule.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members, I think that is sufficient for now for our deliberations and discussions today, it would be best for this Committee meeting to be adjourned and for us to reconvene in the Council of State meeting.
(Committee meeting adjourned)
(Council meeting resumed)
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. We resume in the Council of State meeting. I think it is sufficient for now for us to sit and deliberate today. I propose that our meeting be adjourned.
God willing, we will reconvene tomorrow, Thursday, 26 March 2026, starting from 9.00 in the morning.
That is all, Wabillahi taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta'ala wabarakatuh.
(Council meeting adjourned)
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