DAY 9 MORNING
📖 Reading time: 79 minutes
📊 Word count: 15,351 words
25TH MARCH 2026 MORNING​
(The meeting began at 9.30 a.m.)
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. The First Meeting of the 22nd Session of the Legislative Council convenes for its ninth day today, Wednesday, 5 Syawal 1447 Hijrah corresponding to 25 March 2026, preceded by the Doa Selamat.
DOA SELAMAT​
(Doa Selamat was recited by Yang Dimuliakan Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mat Jaya bin Ibrahim).
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Alhamdulillah, praise be to Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala, because by His grace alone we are able to gather together this morning to convene for the ninth day of the First Meeting of the 22nd Session of the Legislative Council. Blessings and peace be upon our Great Leader Sayyidina Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam, his family, his companions and his loyal and faithful followers until the end of time.
Your Honourable Members. After celebrating Aidilfitri, we enter our meeting this morning with a spirit which I hope is burning strongly to resolve the matters before us in a timely manner.
Therefore, without wasting any more time, I begin today with the next order of business.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Time for Questions for Oral Answers.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. We now move to question time and, as usual, this time will be opened to Your Honourable Members who have submitted questions orally and they will be answered orally by the relevant Yang Berhormat Ministers.
Before us now is the list of questions submitted. I begin with the first question from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II, please Pehin.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola would first like to take this special early opportunity once again to convey Hari Raya Aidilfitri greetings, Maaf Zahir dan Batin, the day of victory for all Muslim men and women after performing the obligation of fasting in the month of Ramadhan. May our fasting and practices in the month of Ramadhan be accepted by Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala and may we be granted His forgiveness for all our sins.
Thank you to Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman for the question on whether there are studies regarding improving the quality of public services involving the public in relation to the adoption and use of digital transformation in the public service. The Management Services Department, MSD at the Prime Minister's Office has implemented a public service care initiative since July 2025.
This initiative involves public participation in assessing the quality of service delivery by government agencies based on user experience, focusing on 5 assessment criteria, namely First, ease of obtaining information. Second, meeting the promised time frame. Third, ethics and service. Fourth, product quality, and lastly, current service and experience. This care initiative is also able to generate data to determine the satisfaction of customers receiving services online as well as at counters.
It is pleased to be shared that as of February 2026, public respondents recorded an 84.4 per cent customer satisfaction level. For the information of Yang Berhormat as well, to date 79.2 per cent of respondents are satisfied with online service delivery. This achievement will serve as a baseline to assess improvements in public satisfaction with online service delivery.
As a forward step, the government through a whole of government approach led by the E-Government National Centre, Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, will continue to collaborate with MSD and IPA to cultivate and mandate the Business Process Improvement, BPI approach for every service to be digitised.
This approach sees the need to carry out a more focused and integrated assessment relating to the application and effectiveness of digital services in line with efforts to transform the public service to be more efficient, impactful and people-centred.
That is all that kaola can convey Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The second question, Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Salam Aidilfitri, Minal Walfaidzin and greetings of peace. First of all, allow kaola to record appreciation to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan for the very timely question on the role of digital technology in supporting skills development, youth employability as well as the development of the creative economy and digital sports or e-sports.
The main focus of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports at present is to ensure that digital technology is applied holistically to develop youth skills in various technical and creative fields. Technology is not merely a support tool, but rather the main driver changing the way youth learn, work and generate economic value.
The ministry is committed to acting as an enabler by providing a supportive ecosystem to ensure that youth have broad access to the latest technological tools and platforms. The ministry's goal is to build youth capacity so that they are able to compete competitively not only at the domestic level but also globally.
Through the Youth Development Centre and the Artisan Skills Programme, the ministry offers courses that produce young workers with current industry competencies. To date, 24 courses have been implemented with the participation of about 300 youths.
These courses cover critical fields such as Digital Graphic Design and Multimedia Production, Laser Cutting and Digital Fabrication, Social Media Marketing as well as the basics of artificial intelligence and website development. This initiative enables youth to translate their creativity into digital products and services with high market value.
Regarding the field of e-sports, the ministry views this sector as going beyond mere recreational activity. With mastery of this technology, youth are able to create their own economic opportunities including involvement in the gig economy which offers more sustainable and flexible income generation. Alhamdulillah, the Negara Brunei Darussalam e-sports contingent obtained 7 medals including one gold medal during the Malaysia Games, SUKMA 2024 in Sarawak.
Next, kaola seeks the permission of Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua to defer to my colleague Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi to provide additional remarks. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
(Yang Di Pertua signalled agreement)
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Greetings of peace and good morning and on this occasion, kaola would also like to wish selamat hari raya maaf zahir dan batin to all present in this august hall.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola is pleased to provide additional remarks in answering the question raised by Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan regarding the role of digital technology in supporting efforts to expand digital sports, e-sports. In this matter, kaola would like to share in terms of context, particularly the gaming industry, alhamdulillah it is a pleasure to inform that there are already local game products built by our own local people which have successfully brought honour to the country by participating in competitions at the international level such as Tikus Tales designed by WilkGames, which received the Silver award at the ASEAN Digital Awards 2025 and subsequently represented the country at the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance competition in 2025 after taking part in and winning the Brunei ICT Awards in the same year.
In addition, AITI continues to actively strengthen efforts in developing digital talent through various initiatives such as Coding with Smart Devices. This programme provides early exposure to the younger generation to the basics of programming, computational thinking and the creative use of technology.
In relation to the development of students' digital capacity, students also have the opportunity to develop digital projects interactively through understanding core basics such as programming logic and digital game development. It is hoped that this initiative will nurture our younger generation in the field of technology and subsequently contribute to the development of local talent to support the growth of the digital economy of Negara Brunei Darussalam.
That is all Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua that I wish to share.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The third question is from Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you once again Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola would like to seek permission to answer two questions together, namely beginning with question three and question four, both of which concern plans for the development of EV vehicles.
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Thank you to Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir and Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman who raised questions related to EV vehicles.
Before answering those questions, it is a pleasure first to share the implementation of the EV Vehicle Pilot Project which was launched on 18 March 2021 for a period of 2 years and ended in March 2023, which helped in providing exposure regarding the use of electric vehicles.
The advantages of using electric vehicles and electric vehicle charging equipment as well as assessing the feasibility and public acceptance of the use of electric vehicles in the domestic market. As is also the case with the Technology Adoption Curve which has five phases.
The acceptance of EV vehicles in this country has moved from the pioneer group stage to the early majority adopters stage. This phase represents pragmatic users who have switched to electric vehicles after seeing clear evidence of battery durability and maintenance cost savings.
At this stage, EVs are not only for technology enthusiasts but are beginning to be accepted as a transport option accepted by the general public. This is due to testimony or evidence that the technology truly works and is worthwhile. This transition has also been helped by the introduction of lower vehicle licence rates compared with conventional engine vehicles.
Concerns regarding the insufficient number of public charging stations have also not become a barrier because the main mode is home charging. Support from charging stations provided by vehicle dealers and owners of commercial buildings at selected locations has also helped with this acceptance. As of January 2026, around 2 thousand PHEV and EV vehicles have been registered with the Land Transport Department.
In this regard, Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicles, namely PHEVs, are the most popular because they offer the best option for drivers who are in the transition phase from traditional petrol cars to fully electric vehicles. PHEVs bridge the gap between internal combustion engines, ICE, and battery electric vehicles by providing electric efficiency for daily use without the constraints present in a full EV.
At the same time, model choices are also increasing and the prices of PHEV and EV vehicles are becoming more competitive. To date as well, a total of 40 EV charging stations and 45 charging points have been installed at identified places and provide various levels of facilities covering charging specifically for certain brands, public use as well as a choice of free or paid charging.
Specifically for Temburong District, as in the question by Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir, at present in Temburong there is only one charging station at The Abode Resort and Spa but only for owners of certain brands. God willing, with the increasing use of PHEVs and EVs in Temburong District, charging facilities may increase.
That concludes the sharing of the latest developments on electric vehicles in this country. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The fifth question is from Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee and is also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you also to Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee for touching on the legal recognition concerning digital signatures and digital stamp duty.
To answer that question, kaola/I am pleased to refer to the legislation of Negara Brunei Darussalam concerned, namely the Electronic Transactions Act Chapter 196. Among other things, the said Act provides that records of communication and transactions in electronic form have legal effect equivalent to physical documents. The Act also provides for two types of signatures, namely electronic signatures and digital signatures. Under Chapter 8, the Act provides that an electronic signature fulfils any regulation and law requiring a signature, that is, an electronic signature may be legally accepted as a form of signature.
Chapter 11 of the same Act also provides that electronic contracts are valid and enforceable and, together with Chapter 8, this means that electronic contracts for official and commercial purposes are valid and enforceable under the law. As for digital signatures, Chapter 19 under the Act stipulates that an electronic record signed with a digital signature is considered secure only if that signature fulfils certain conditions.
Further, Chapter 20 provides for the recognition of digital signatures involving higher security requirements. This includes the use of certificates and public keys, public key, as well as cryptography. As shared earlier, this means that the provisions under the Electronic Transaction Act have provided a clear basis for the use of digital signatures in official and commercial dealings, including the implementation of business transaction contracts, the delivery of government services online as well as paperless transactions.
However, I would also like to draw the attention of Yang Berhormat that for digital signatures, to date Part 10, namely Regulation of Certification Authorities under the Act, has not yet been brought into force. This matter requires further consideration, including reviewing that part of the Act to ensure that the security requirements are up to date and aligned with best practices, including the appointment of certification authorities.
In relation to digital stamp duty, kaola would respectfully seek permission from Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua to invite Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II to provide additional comments on the matter. Thank you. That is all that kaola can share.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. First of all, kaola would also like to wish Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri to everyone present in this august Hall.
Thank you to Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee for the question raised regarding the legal recognition concerning digital stamp duty.
In answering the question, in further streamlining the level of services at the Revenue Division, Ministry of Finance and Economy, among others to reduce the waiting time for the manual stamp duty assessment process, the use of stamp certificates has been introduced to replace impressed or adhesive stamps since the e-stamping module in the One Common Portal began to be used by the public on 17 December 2022.
This e-stamping module is a feature introduced in the OCP to enable the public to carry out, manage and pay stamp duty for certain instruments online without having to be physically present at the counters of stamp duty collecting agencies, including the Land Department, Ministry of Development and the State Judiciary Department at the Prime Minister's Office.
This e-stamping module involves the procedures for stamp duty assessment and payment as follows. First, the use of online stamp duty forms. Second, the requirement to upload the instruments to be stamped. Third, the automatic calculation of stamp duty. Fourth, online payment of stamp duty including a new method created specifically for stamp duty collection, namely using credit cards online. And fifth, the issuance of stamp duty certificates.
Further, Chapter 4A and 4B, Stamp Act Chapter 34, allow this system to be used in official as well as commercial matters. Since this e-stamping module was introduced, online transactions have increased. The Ministry of Finance and Economy through the Revenue Division, Ministry of Finance and Economy will continue efforts to further reduce the stamp duty assessment process submitted through counters.
Among other things, by working together with the Land Department, Ministry of Development and the State Judiciary Department at the Prime Minister's Office to identify any business processes of the said agencies involving this stamp duty assessment that can be improved without needing to involve changes to the law so that users of this e-stamping module can use it fully.
That is all that kaola can convey. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. The next question is from Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya'akub addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama.
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. First of all Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola would like to convey Hari Raya greetings. Hopefully we have already celebrated Eidul Fitri with full gratitude and now return to our normal daily norms, our daily routines. God willing.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Kaola finds that the first question mentioned earlier, namely the question from Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya'akub, namely PL069, is on the same matter as questions PL092 and PL709, namely regarding digital technology, its use and how the Ministry of Religious Affairs plans and implements it.
Therefore kaola seeks permission from Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for kaola to combine these three questions in one answer.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
So Pehin will answer questions six, seven and eight? Please proceed Pehin.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. The three questions submitted by three of my fellow Ahli Yang Berhormat friends in this Hall ask me to state matters related to the use of information technology in different scopes.
First, the question from Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya’akub in the scope of expanding dakwah activities adapted to social changes and technological progress in order to attract the interest of the younger generation. Second, the question from Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman regarding the extent of strategic cooperation between educational institutions, NGOs and local communities to strengthen the nation's dakwah ecosystem. And third, lastly, the question from Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan in the scope of leveraging digital technology to strengthen the religious education system and dakwah delivery.
For all three, as permitted by Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, then my answer is this. Praise be to Allah, the Ministry of Religious Affairs through its various branches, namely the Information Technology Division, BTM, the Islamic Dakwah Centre, PDI, the Department of Islamic Studies, JPI, Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College, KUPUSB and the Institute Tahfiz Al-Quran.
Then together with stakeholders equally involved in the use of digital technology such as Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University, UNISSA and also NGOs as well as local communities, have formulated various dakwah initiatives adapted to social changes and advances in digital technology in line with the interests of the younger generation.
In this regard, kaola is pleased to emphasise that the main initiative of the Ministry of Religious Affairs is to empower the digital dakwah infrastructure through installing internet access at mosques and surau, developing user-friendly website platforms and providing creative software. At the same time, youths are also involved as volunteers to assist the public in adopting the religious e-service portal.
In terms of social media, collaboration with PDI has produced various dakwah software or content on the Instagram, Youtube, TikTok, Threads and other platforms with increased engagement. As an example, I was given the figures that Instagram Story increased from 13,082 in 2024 to 144,254 in 2025, which is an increase of approximately 11 times, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat sekalian.
However, I understand that the figure recorded in 2024 of 13,082 most likely had not yet recorded those from other platforms in the network, what is it called, the overall Dakwah Centre platform, and that is probably why the figure is a little low at 13,082, most likely. Meanwhile, through broadcasting media, collaboration with RTB has aired daily, weekly and periodic programmes such as The Beauty of Islam, Permata Iman, Tazkirah Rampai Pagi and several other spiritual programmes on TV.
Further, through radio broadcasts, including Intisari Khutbah Jumaat and Tadabbur Al-Quran. Regarding Khutbah Jumaat, I would like to add that there is an initiative from the Department of Mosque Affairs, making the Friday Sermon every Friday broadcast in infographic form, making it easier for the public to follow the contents of the sermon. Not only in Malay but also in English, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Well done on this initiative.
Likewise, through youth programmes such as the ACE camp, Munajat Khas and Faith and Soul Camp and other youth activities in sports and the like, this shows, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, how digital technology and broadcasting, alongside youth programmes and collaboration with stakeholders, are indeed strengthening the dakwah ecosystem and spiritual education.
Likewise, through collaborative links in strategic cooperation with educational and higher learning institutions such as UNISSA, producing studies on converts, and with KUPUSB producing Tadabbur Al-Quran and Nadi Daie programmes, and strategic cooperation with Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran producing creative dakwah videos. All these initiatives are... kaola seek forgiveness for continuing, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, because these three questions are combined, but it will not be long, God willing.
All the initiatives mentioned are strengthening the nationwide dakwah ecosystem as hoped for by my friends in this hall, namely first Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya'akub who asked while suggesting, and praise be to Allah, as I understand it, not only asking but also suggesting that technological progress, certainly meaning digital technology as well as broadcasting technology, be utilised in expanding dakwah activities to attract the interest of the younger generation, thank you.
Likewise with my friend Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman, who also asked with the hope that strategic cooperation be carried out with educational institutions, with NGOs and with local communities in order to strengthen national dakwah, and this is being and will continue to be done, thank you. And next my friend Yang Berhormat Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan, who asked what I understand to mean wanting to know while also containing suggestions that may be understood from the question, how digital technology is utilised to strengthen the religious education system and dakwah delivery.
And this too I have mentioned earlier. I hope, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, that I have stated the extent to which the Ministry of Religious Affairs has taken and is taking initiatives, in which direction and to what extent, in the matters that my respective friends hoped I would state.
Thus, once again I express my thanks to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for giving a little more time and next to my three friends, the Yang Berhormat Members of this Legislative Council who were appointed as district representatives. Kaola seek forgiveness for anything, if any. And with Allah comes guidance and success, peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah the Exalted and His blessings. About three to four bonus minutes, pehin, thank you. And with Allah comes guidance and success.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The next question is from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
Thank you 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 and His blessings and greetings of peace. On this occasion kaola would also like to wish Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, may this year's Syawal bring a thousand blessings and well-being to us all.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Kaola seek permission for kaola to answer questions nine and ten together as the issues raised are related.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
So Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan will answer question nine and question ten, namely from Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee. Please proceed.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, first of all kaola would like to express thanks to Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim and Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee for the questions submitted regarding AI.
To ensure that the use of artificial intelligence technology, or Artificial Intelligence, AI among the school community, especially students, is implemented prudently, safely and ethically, the Ministry of Education launched the GenAI, Guidance for Education Handbook Edition in September 2025. This handbook was prepared to assist teachers and students in making prudent use of AI technology, in line with the Melayu Islam Beraja, MIB values. This guide emphasises aspects of digital safety, academic integrity, responsible use of AI as well as personal data protection in the context of teaching and learning.
The preparation of the guide is also in line with the AI governance and ethics guidelines issued by the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam, AITI. In addition to complying with legal requirements related to personal data protection, the Personal Data Protection Order, PDPO in Negara Brunei Darussalam.
In addition, in May 2024, the Ministry of Education Brunei Darussalam launched the Digital Citizenship framework and handbook, a guide aimed at enhancing the knowledge, skills as well as attitudes and core values of the school community as responsible digital users. This guide focuses on three main competencies, namely knowledge or knowledge, skills, skills and attitudes and values, attitude and values. To ensure that the use of digital technology in schools is practised in a safe and ethical environment.
In strengthening digital safety in the education sector, apart from the publication of the GenAI, Guidance for Education Handbook Edition, the Ministry of Education works closely with various other agencies including through first, the Content Advisory Council, CAC which involves cooperation between the Ministry of Education with the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry, AITI, the Prime Minister’s Office as well as other agencies to monitor online content and digital safety issues in an integrated manner. This includes taking relevant legal action. And second, briefings at the school level delivered by Cyber Security Brunei, CSB, to raise awareness of internet safety and information security among students.
That is all Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The next question from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman is also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, once again kaola seeks permission for kaola to answer questions eleven and twelve together as the issues raised are related.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Please proceed.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman and Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya'akub for the questions raised.
International studies have found that the use of technology has a positive impact in strengthening the implementation of co-curriculum as well as increasing the effectiveness of the teaching and learning process. The findings of the study also show that educational technology is able to support a more interactive, flexible and student-centred pedagogy approach.
In line with these findings, a study conducted by several lecturers from Universiti Brunei Darussalam in 2015 also found that students showed positive acceptance towards the use of technology in classrooms in primary schools in Negara Brunei Darussalam. Technology was found to help improve the quality of learning, facilitate understanding of lesson content and make the delivery of teaching more interesting and meaningful.
Accordingly, from the findings of these studies, as a response, the Ministry of Education will continue to emphasise the use of technology to ensure that technology is utilised as an enabler to improve the quality and effectiveness of the teaching process and subsequently improve student achievement.
This effort is implemented in an integrated manner through strengthening digital pedagogy practices, providing quality digital learning resources or e-resources as well as developing teacher capacity through training and continuous support. Therefore, to monitor and assess the use of information technology in teaching and learning, the Ministry of Education Brunei Darussalam through the Schools Inspectorate Department uses national assessment mechanisms such as the Brunei Teachers' Standards Teacher Performance Appraisals, BTS-TPA and Whole School Evaluation, WSE.
This assessment examines the effectiveness of teachers’ pedagogical practices, the level of student engagement in the learning process as well as its impact on the overall quality and achievement of learning as follows: BTS-TPA specifically assesses the aspect of information technology use through the ICT integration component in teaching pedagogy including the effectiveness of teachers in utilising technology to enhance student engagement and learning. WSE on the other hand assesses the extent to which schools plan, implement and monitor the use of technology strategically in supporting the implementation of quality teaching and learning comprehensively.
The findings from this assessment are used as one of the key indicators to assist the Ministry of Education in assessing the level of effectiveness of ICT use in teaching and learning, identifying support needs as well as planning continuous improvement interventions at the school level and across the overall education system.
The Ministry of Education has also placed mastery of digital technology as one of the priorities in the Strategic Plan 2023-2027, specifically under Goal 1 to nurture future-ready students, students’ latest achievement in digital literacy, software use and cyber security is no longer assessed separately but instead integrated across the curriculum through digital literacy standards that have been absorbed into the primary and secondary level syllabuses.
In addition, students are exposed to the digital citizenship framework led by the Curriculum Development Department. This framework aims to ensure that students are not only skilled in using devices but also possess online ethics and awareness regarding cyber security.
At the primary and secondary school levels, assessment of digital technology mastery is carried out through several platforms and instruments including first, the Analytics Platform Digital. The effectiveness of digital initiatives is monitored through the usage traffic of the Platform Digital Resource Management System or DRMS and MOE TV. As of February 2026, the DRMS Platform had recorded 29,900 visits with 213 digital materials uploaded covering various levels of education. This platform has also proven its quality by winning the BICTA Smart Nation 2024 award. MOE TV meanwhile recorded 14,382 visits with 462 educational videos available.
Second, the Learning Management System, LMS. The new LMS will provide reporting analytics features that enable educators to track their students’ formative progress in real time. Third, International Benchmarking or PSA. Negara Brunei Darussalam uses the domain cognitive, learning in a digital world in the 2025 PSA cycle to benchmark the competency of 15-year-old students in using digital tools to solve against global standard.
At the higher education institution level, mastery of digital technology is assessed through academic achievement and industry certification. For example, Universiti Teknologi Brunei offers professional certification courses through the Science Technology and Innovation Laboratory, STI Lab which includes Huawei Academy and Cisco Academy. This ensures graduates have globally recognised technical skills to enhance employability. Universiti Brunei Darussalam meanwhile integrates science digital skills through the School of Digital Science and apprenticeship programmes through the Headstart Programme with Dynamik Technologies. Overall, the Ministry of Education ensures that each level of education has a conducive digital ecosystem so that every student in Negara Brunei Darussalam is competent and competitive in the digital global economy.
That is all and thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
The next question is from Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Pertahanan II​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola would first like to express my deepest thanks to Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin regarding the mechanism for cross-ministerial coordination that has been or will be established to address the increase in the number of applications to the Sistem Kebajikan Negara.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
In that regard, to answer the question, which is related to the Sistem Kebajikan Negara, namely under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, kaola is of the opinion that it would be more appropriate and orderly for Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan to answer it.
That is all that kaola can convey for the consideration of Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. I think it is now appropriate for us to continue this meeting by moving on to...
(Yang Mulia Jurutulis conveys something to Yang Di-Pertua).
Please proceed Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. First of all, kaola would like to seek permission to answer at once question 13-PL036 from Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin and also question 14-PL103 from Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah, taking into account that both questions touch on the same matter, namely regarding the Sistem Kebajikan Negara. God willing, kaola will endeavour to ensure that the answer is accurate and brief. Permission is sought.
(Yang Di-Pertua grants permission).
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. First of all, kaola would like to share the trend of applications each year, SKN applications each year recorded in the SKN system have in fact from 2022 to 2024 shown a declining trend while applications throughout 2025 have shown a slight increase but can still be considered low compared with the number of applications throughout 2022 and throughout 2023.
Several cross-ministerial coordination mechanisms have in fact been established as a forward step in empowering the less fortunate community. This includes the Sistem Kebajikan Negara which was specially designed to cut across ministries and relevant agencies.
So for information, this system is used by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, used by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, used by the Ministry of Education, used by the Ministry of Home Affairs, and is also used by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. This system has certainly increased the efficiency and effectiveness of the application process for assistance including schooling necessities assistance. At the same time, this system has also enabled agencies to carry out data analysis regarding welfare or what is known as welfare mapping throughout the country in order to formulate policies that are more accurate and targeted. Targeted does not mean going off to the side, rather more towards targeted.
In addition, several cross-sectoral and cross-ministerial platforms have also been established since 2008, with the establishment of the National Council on Social Issues or MKIS. This Council was established as the main leading mechanism in efforts to strengthen social well-being, particularly as a coordinator of identified social issues. These issues include dilapidated housing, unemployment, poverty, family, women, children, Persons with Different Abilities, OKU and the elderly.
This Council convenes to discuss social issues and its implementation is monitored through the respective special committees which use the action plans that have been formulated to achieve the set objectives. This Council involves membership from the government sector in which the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports serves as the chair of MKIS and its members comprise Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi Lembaga Pengarah Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II, Yang Berhormat Menteri Kesihatan, Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan and Yang Mulia Timbalan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri.
The special committees under the National Council on Social Issues involve members consisting of some members of this Council Chamber and representatives from the government sector, private sector and non-governmental bodies. Under the Special Committee on Poverty Issues, the poverty eradication action plan focuses on ensuring that there is no exclusion among citizens and residents who need assistance.
In addition, action plans are also formed to empower aid recipients to break out of the poverty cycle. This effort needs to be implemented nationwide, involving not only government agencies but also the private sector and NGOs in joining hands and cooperating synergistically. This effort is not focused solely on financial assistance but also on skills enhancement to achieve long-term self-reliance and to provide a conducive support system to enable them to generate income sustainably.
This action plan is based on capacity development of the target group to become more resilient, independent and able to improve socio-economic well-being sustainably in line with the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035. For example, under the Department of Community Development, JAPEM, several programmes have been implemented to help aid recipients become self-reliant including the Employment Plan Programme, the Home Business Programme, the Community Programme and the Youth Visionary Innovation Programme to ensure aid recipients can stand on their own and be independent. In addition, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, BIBD, also implements the BIBD SEED programme, while the Department of Zakat, Waqaf and Baitulmal Affairs or JUZWAB also implements the Zakat Asnaf Empowerment Programme, PROPAZ. So all this is implemented collaboratively with JAPEM and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
That is all, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, in answering the questions from Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin and Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan and also to the relevant Yang Berhormat Menteri-Menteri, who have answered the questions that had been put forward by the Yang Berhormat Ahli-Ahli Yang Dilantik.
Now as I have stated, I would like to propose that we move on to the next Meeting Business.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Supply Bill and Development Fund Resolution Motion, Committee of Supply Debate.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. The Legislative Council is still discussing the Supply Bill (2026), 2026/2027 and the Development Fund Resolution Motion.
Now, I would like to adjourn this meeting and we will next proceed with the Committee of Supply Debate.
(Meeting adjourned)
(Meeting sits as Committee)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. We now resume the scrutiny of Titles at the Committee of Supply stage.
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Title SH01A to Title SH06A Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. The Committee is now discussing Title SH01A to Title SH06A Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann.
Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola touch on Title SH01A Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. Kaola am pleased to debate matters related to the local agricultural sector, particularly from the perspective of farmers' income and the competitiveness of local products in the market.
On this occasion, kaola would like to raise several questions to Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan regarding the current position of local farmers who market their agricultural produce in the local market. In this regard, kaola would like to know what is the estimated average income earned by local farmers, especially those who depend on the sale of fresh agricultural produce in the domestic market. Is this income at a sustainable level and able to support their operating costs as well as their daily lives, especially in facing the challenges of rising agricultural import costs such as fertiliser, seeds and logistics.
Next Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, kaola would like to obtain clarification as to whether there is continuous monitoring by the government regarding the difference in quality of local agricultural products compared to imported products from abroad. Are there any specific standards or guidelines used to ensure that local produce can compete in terms of quality, freshness, food safety as well as price in the market?
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
In addition, kaola would also like to know what types of local agricultural produce record high demand among consumers? and to what extent does the ministry assist in ensuring that the supply of such products is always sufficient and stable in the market? For example, is demand more focused on fresh vegetables, local fruits, cash crop products or high-value agricultural produce such as fertigation and organic crops?
That is all Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings.
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 and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola touch on Title SH01A Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism for Tutong District, in particular initiatives such as the Tutong destination programme which has successfully attracted more than 2 thousand visitors since its introduction as well as identified more than 30 potential locations as tourism destinations. These include attractions such as Tutong River and natural areas; secondly, ecotourism products and community activities; and thirdly, local cultural and heritage sites. However, these destinations can still be improved in terms of infrastructure facilities and economic returns to local residents.
Kaola would like to raise a question to Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan regarding the development of the tourism sector in Negara Brunei Darussalam, particularly in Tutong District. In this regard, kaola would like to know what the latest developments are in terms of tourist arrivals, whether international or domestic tourists visiting Tutong District in recent years? In view of the government's efforts to expand the tourism sector outside Brunei Muara District; secondly, what are the main places of interest identified as tourist attractions in Tutong District? Such as ecotourism areas, cultural heritage and natural destinations and to what extent have these places succeeded in attracting tourists?
Thirdly and next, what is the estimated average revenue or economic output derived from tourism activities in Tutong District including contributions to the local economy as well as employment opportunities for local residents?
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
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. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. Kaola touch on Title SH01A Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. Allow kaola to touch on an issue that is increasingly receiving attention among residents in several areas, namely the increase in the presence of flies which may stem from livestock activities or the less controlled management of agricultural materials.
Yang Berhormat sekalian.
This increasing occurrence of flies not only causes discomfort in the daily lives of residents, but also raises concerns from the aspect of cleanliness and public health in some situations and this has affected the quality of life of the community especially for those living near areas of livestock activity or agricultural waste collection.
In this regard, kaola would like to seek clarification from Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan, what measures have been and will be taken by the ministry in controlling livestock activities and ensuring that the management of agricultural waste materials is implemented in a more systematic and effective manner to reduce the breeding of flies in residential areas?
In addition, kaola would also like to know the extent to which existing guidelines and monitoring are implemented as well as what form of cooperation exists between the relevant agencies in dealing with this issue comprehensively? It is hoped that the efforts implemented will not only support the development of the country's agriculture and livestock sectors, but at the same time ensure that the well-being and comfort of the people are always preserved. 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​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings and greetings of peace and Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Praise be to Allah, in 2025, the tourism sector recorded growth of 9.3 per cent. In 2026, tourist arrivals have been projected to increase to 855 thousand people and its spin-off value to BND528 million, congratulations from kaola. In this matter, kaola would like to seek clarification on the ministry's strategic actions to achieve this target. Given that the amount of resources allocated appears to still be limited. Whereas 2027 has been designated as Visit Brunei Year. In addition, kaola also seeks clarification regarding the ministry's measures to further increase the involvement of locals in this industry.
Secondly, kaola observe that in 2025, 6 more target markets were identified in addition to the 6 main targets that are the focus for tourism promotion and market initiatives. These include the United States and Canada, ASEAN Countries, India and others. This initiative will certainly require strong alignment, coordination and collaboration with relevant agencies, including the private sector and the country's representatives overseas. Kaola seek clarification on what the country's strategy is to bring in tourism and foreign direct investors into this country? Not only in the hospitality sector, but also the education and medical sectors. Kaola observe that the country is still not very active in promoting educational tourism, Islamic tourism and health tourism. Whereas we already have the infrastructure for these sectors to be further developed, while educational and health tourists, for example, are high-value tourism.
Thirdly, kaola am interested in the direction of the ministry's food industry which is planned to increase its contribution by 15 per cent annually, from BND557 million in 2025 to BND960 million in 2029. Kindly clarify, in making this projection and setting this target, does the ministry also take into account geopolitical effects, climate change factors and the possibility of disruptions in the supply chain from time to time as is currently happening? On the same issue, kaola would also like to know about the ministry's proactive planning to reduce the risks that kaola have stated above.
Next, in 2025, the food and tourism industries as a whole were able to provide employment to 17,633 people, although about 75 per cent are foreign workers except for the tourism sector. At the same time, the number of youth entrepreneurs in the Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan sector was recorded at only 121 people. Kaola seek clarification on the ministry's future measures to encourage the involvement of youth entrepreneurs in modern agriculture, especially in increasing their potential and skills, helping them gain access to financial capital, opening more overseas markets for their products as well as other initiatives. Next, in the 2025/2026 Budget it was shared that as of last year 74 hectares out of 174 hectares of development farms in Kawasan Kemajuan Pertanian Kandol had been cultivated.
The production target within five years is at an average yield rate of 6 metric tonnes per hectare and this figure will increase to 6.5 metric tonnes per hectare this year. Kaola seek clarification whether this target has been achieved at present and what the ministry's strategic measures are to increase this production comprehensively until it meets the target of 7.5 metric tonnes per hectare as intended. Kaola raise this matter because kaola observe that the allocation for 003/000, Projek Pengeluaran Beras Negara for Financial Year 2026/2027 as a whole has been reduced by about BND2.5 million.
Lastly Yang Berhormat Pengerusi may kaola...
(Yang Berhormat Pengerusi signals agreement)
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim​
Kementerian Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan has managed 72 agricultural development areas to support business needs. As of December 2024, 37 per cent or 26 agricultural development areas had been completed with infrastructure. Kindly share the latest developments regarding the remaining agricultural areas and whether the production from these KKP has been able to increase the country's self-sufficiency rate and reduce the country's dependence on imports of such agricultural produce. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola apologise for taking about a minute more, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Next, 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. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Happy Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Kaola would like first to touch on Title SHA01A - Department of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Code 001/000 Administrative and Financial Policy Programme. What are the more aggressive plans and measures, as well as their implementation, in strengthening human resources in various areas of expertise and skills, particularly in the tourism, agriculture, fisheries, forestry and agrifood sectors, especially by prioritising research and development, namely R&D, to further empower those sectors in efforts to increase productivity, the application of high technology as well as the production of quality value-added product while further expanding downstream industries.
Secondly, Kaola would like to refer to the Title of the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood. Code 002/000 - Management of Agriculture and Agrifood Support Services. Kaola welcomes the initiative of the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood which has published cultivation guidebooks that are known and identified such as for pepper, tomato, pineapple, eggplant and corn commodities. This also includes more systematic cultivation procedures with the potential to produce high productivity on a large scale as intended to attract more local farmers. In this regard, Kaola seeks clarification on the extent of the effectiveness of the implementation of those initiatives using high-technology methods and their impact on increased productivity and output on a large scale while at the same time developing value-added products in the country's agricultural sector.
Thirdly, kaola would like to refer to Code 004/000 - Management of Crop, Livestock and Agrifood Industries. What are the challenges and more strategic approaches in efforts to increase the output and productivity of beef and buffalo meat including meat-based products, not merely to further raise the very low self-sufficiency level in this country, which is only 1.6 per cent, so that it is more assured and also guarantees national food security, but also as value-added to expand the export of meat-based products. Next, kaola would like to refer to the Tourism Sector namely Code 004/001 - Publicity, Advertising, Media and Commercial Programme.
Alhamdulillah, kaola welcomes the allocated budget which has increased by more or less from BND1.9 million for 2025/2026 to almost double, namely nearly BND3.9 million for 2026/2027. This reflects the high commitment of the Government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam in developing the tourism industry as one of the main sectors capable of generating spin-off and multiplier effect not only to various downstream industries and economic activities but also generating employment opportunities while contributing to GDP growth.
However, with such additional allocation, clarification is sought on what more comprehensive and more effective plans and framework there are to make the best use of it, God willing, so that it will be able to realise the tourism industry as truly one of the main contributors to national revenue.
It is also found here that in staffing for 2025/2026, there are 47 persons, but this decreases to 46 posts in 2026/2027. The question is, will the staffing at present and in the future be sufficient or adequate when we aspire for the tourism industry to be further developed and its allocation has also been increased.
Kaola would like just a little more, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, if possible, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
(Yang Berhormat Pengerusi signals agreement)
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.
Here too, what is suggested is that in this tourism industry we also require people with expertise and skills in further invigorating the tourism industry and collaboration with agencies not only at the national level but also at the international level.
That is all, thank you. Kaola apologises and also thanks Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir.
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings, and greetings and Happy Hari Raya.
Kaola would like to touch on Title SH01A Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. Awareness and interest in local tourism need to be nurtured from a young age so that future generations will better recognise the uniqueness and beauty of their own country. Therefore, kaola would like to know what specific initiatives have been implemented by the ministry together with related agencies in introducing local tourism destinations to school students. For example, does the ministry conduct briefing sessions or tourism exhibitions in schools, whether at the primary or secondary level, to provide direct exposure to students.
Next, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola would also like to know the extent of cooperation that has been established between the ministry and the Ministry of Education in efforts to integrate elements of local tourism into co-curricular activities or learning programmes such as educational visits, tourism awareness programmes or competitions related to local heritage and destinations. In addition, kaola is of the view that a promotional approach through school students is not only capable of increasing the number of local visitors but can also produce a generation that becomes little ambassadors for the country's tourism.
Therefore, is there a long-term plan by the ministry to ensure that this effort can be implemented continuously and more systematically. That is all, thank you, Yang Berhormat Pehin Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman​
Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah and His blessings and Hari Raya greetings. Yang Berhormat Pehin Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola would like to touch on Title SH01A - Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism concerning the development of the agricultural sector, particularly the involvement of youth in plantation farming. Kaola would like to raise several questions relating to the development of young farmers or local youth who have been identified and guided by the government thus far. As we are aware, the service of youth in the agricultural sector is very important in ensuring the continuity and sustainability of this industry in the future.
Therefore, kaola would like to know the latest development of active young farmers and to what extent they have succeeded in managing and expanding their respective farms. Next Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, Kaola would also like clarification on the main factors causing some of these young farmers to fail to develop or to be unable to continue their farming efforts. Is this due to capital constraints, lack of knowledge and technical skills, challenges in marketing agricultural produce, lack of access to modern technology, or other issues such as land and labour management.
In addition, kaola would also like to know what forms of assistance and support have been and are being channelled by the government to these young farmers. Does that assistance include the provision of sites or agricultural land, financial assistance or subsidies, training and technical guidance, marketing facilities as well as the use of modern agricultural technology, and further to what extent the effectiveness of these measures helps young farmers remain competitive and achieve sustainable levels of production.
In kaola's view, it is important to ensure that every assistance channelled is not only short term in nature but also builds the resilience and capability of young farmers in the long term.
That is all, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
And Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, thank you Yang Berhormat Pehin Pengerusi.
Kaola refers um.. SD01A Code 003/000, Projek Pengeluaran Beras Negara. At present, more than 90 per cent of the country's rice requirements still depend on imports from countries such as Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. These countries are also exposed to the risk of supply instability due to weather factors such as major floods as well as geopolitical tensions that can affect the food supply chain network. Second question, what assertive measures have been and are being taken by the ministry to ensure that imported rice supply remains sufficient and guaranteed in the short and long term?
In that connection, history shows that the country's rice self-sufficiency level has declined from 37.5 per cent in 1974 to only 4.7 per cent in 2017. Nevertheless, recent efforts have shown an increase to around 8 per cent in 2024. Second question, what is the target for the rice self-sufficiency level in the short, medium and long term and what is the ministry's level of confidence in achieving that target. Next, referring to Code SH04A 12/005 and Code 1210/013 under the paddy output programme in RKN12, each of which has an estimated project cost of around BND1.82 million and BND850 thousand respectively.
However, the current allocation is only BND36.0 thousand and BND217 thousand even though it has now entered the third year of implementation, namely 2024 and 2029. What is the cause of the significant gap between the total allocation and the current level of expenditure, and what concrete measures will the ministry take to expedite project implementation so that the target of increasing paddy production can be achieved?
Yang Berhormat Pehin Pengerusi.
Kaola together with colleagues conducted a working visit to agricultural development areas for paddy cultivation in Brunei Muara District and subsequently held a dialogue session with paddy operators' representatives from Brunei Muara, Tutong and Belait districts. They showed high commitment to paddy production with support from the ministry. Among the local findings observed by kaola during that working visit and dialogue session were the following.
First, the paddy seeds supplied are insufficient to produce high yields. For information, at present there are only three certified seed suppliers. Therefore, it is proposed that the supply of paddy seeds be increased by increasing the number of seed suppliers and enhancing monitoring through spot checks;
Second, strengthening the role of head farmers in coordinating and guiding operators at the field level. And third, increasing the presence of officers from the ministry to go to the ground and visit farms more frequently, which can address the differing issues of farmers and resolve and facilitate whatever challenges the farmers face.
Therefore, kaola hopes that the ministry can receive feedback from these farmers with an open mind in order to strengthen the national paddy production sector because feedback is a gift.
That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you, those are the questions that have been raised and also the views that have been expressed by the appointed Your Honourable Members, and now I will give way to Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan whether to debate or to provide comments or responses on the matters that have been raised earlier.
I invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pehin Pengerusi. Kaola also expresses thanks to the honourable members for the questions that have been raised. Kaola would like to answer several of the questions that have been raised.
The first is the question from Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann regarding the estimated average income earned by local farmers from agricultural sales, whether it is sustainable and able to cover operating costs as well as their daily livelihood. Actually, if viewed from the income that we have finished monitoring at this time, Alhamdulillah, most of these farmers, especially those we monitor, especially at present the top 20 at this time, have managed to generate at least 200 thousand a year, and some have reached almost 1 million a year from these production yields.
So actually it is very much dependent on how these farmers manage their farms. So there are those who operate full-time in an intensive manner and also use high technology, which can achieve productivity, even exceeding the KPI that has been specified by the Department of Agriculture. So that opportunity must exist. So it depends on the entrepreneurs, the farmers, to gain greater profits.
In addition, there are also efforts by these farmers who are wise in choosing the types of vegetables that are top in terms of demand and also in terms of yield. So with high demand and high yield, this will help them achieve a good income. In terms of whether there are certain standards or guidelines used to ensure that local produce can be competitive in terms of freshness quality, food safety and price in the market, actually we have, the Department of Agriculture encourages operators to adopt good agricultural practices.
With the adoption of good agricultural practices in fisheries, good agricultural practices, and also for the livestock sector, good husbandry practices, this will enable the farm to be managed in a more orderly, efficient and safer way. So it means the standards already exist. In addition to that, the ministry and also the Department of Agriculture are currently organising efforts to further improve quality and food safety; we encourage the use of natural pesticide rather than chemical pesticide.
So here we can, we have campaign to use pesticide free products. There are already 2 or 3 companies that have started using pesticide free methods such as protected cultivation. So they do not use chemicals, and at the same time ensure the crops are healthy and productivity increases. In addition, what types of local agricultural produce record high demand among consumers and to what extent does the ministry help ensure that the supply of those products is always sufficient and stable in the market?
Actually, the Department of Agriculture issues from time to time the top 20 vegetables in demand, in term of demand, that are high and also command high prices. So this means operators can consult them, I think. Actually, Pehin, the Department of Agriculture also goes to the ground and proposes to them which are the good crops that should be planted to enable them to obtain high yields and also gain profit. In addition to that, recently we are now starting to initiate an export-driven initiative where we encourage these farmers because, due to the domestic market being limited, we are hoping that they can expand their market overseas.
At present, what is being worked on is for Singapore. So with an expanded market, it will enable them to increase production. In addition to that, it will ensure internal food security and at the same time be able to penetrate overseas markets. About 29 companies have registered interested in this program, Alhamdulillah.
In terms of the question from Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya’akub regarding tourism, what is the latest development in terms of the number of tourist arrivals, whether international tourists or tourists visiting Temburong District in recent years, and in view of efforts to expand the tourism sector outside Brunei Muara District?
Actually here, Alhamdulillah, tourism in terms of trend has increased from year to year as I have presented during my ministerial winding-up the other day, where at present in terms of increase, it has increased by 12 per cent from last year. So in terms of revenue, it has also increased by 75 per cent in revenue from tourism in this country.
In terms of Tutong District we don't have the data, in Tutong District still, but nevertheless, if viewed from the participation of the residents of Tutong District, previously if we look back, Tutong District only offered 10 tourism packages, but now if seen from what has been sold overseas and also locally including Kenali Negara Kitani, Tutong District has offered tourism packages which include attractive tourism areas in Tutong such as Eco Ponies Garden, Angkasa Oud Agarwood Enterprise, Labulicious Farm, Pangkalan Warisan, 7 Rumpun Keluarga Nayan and Mori Farm, as well as Pantai Seri Kenangan which now is one of the attractions in Tutong District.
In addition, if counted, we also involving the grass root, the Majlis Perundingan Kampung, in participating in working on tourism products. Alhamdulillah, at present Tutong District is very much active in terms of its Majlis Perundingan Kampung in making tourism activities successful and carrying them out. And also the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism has at present undertaken an initiative where every district has their own main mega package, namely a flagship package for tourism, for example in Brunei it is the Kampung Ayer and Sungai Brunei river cruise which highlights cultural heritage and nature.
In Temburong, in Tutong it is also the same, one package is being developed, namely a package along Sungai Tutong from Kuala Tutong, from Tutong Town to Kuala Tutong, along Sungai Tutong up to Birau, where after Birau it will be continued further along Jalan Lamunin to the Tasek Merimbun area. I think this is going to be launched, insya-Allah within this year to ensure that there is a very backbone of tourism, a tourism package in every district.
In terms of the question from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim regarding tourism, concerning initiatives to promote tourism, considering that in 2027, insya Allah, Visit Brunei Year 2027 will be launched in conjunction with the Diamond Jubilee of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam ascending the throne.
So, we are now intensifying in our effort in promoting this beginning insya Allah in this second quarter. So, we are able, not only will we focus on traditional destination, but also new destinations such as North America, Europe and also the Middle East, and then we will have a dedicated allocation, insya Allah, to ensure that Visit Brunei Year 2027 will be launched successfully. In terms of efforts to attract investors and tourists in the area of education, Islam and also health, in terms of education, alhamdulillah, a task force has been established between the Ministry of Education and also the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism to advance the education tourism industry.
Activities have already begun to be actively carried out to promote short term and long-term Education Tourism. Where short term here is to bring students to visit schools in Negara Brunei Darussalam in terms of within one to two weeks. In addition to that, efforts are also being made to attract students to stay longer here in Brunei to attend courses in this country. So this is indeed already being carried out by the Ministry of Education and the Tourism Development Department together. In addition, insya Allah, within 2 weeks, we will be going to Singapore to discuss with MoE Singapore and also stakeholders and tourism stakeholders in Singapore in order to intensify further the efforts of the ministry, the Tourism Department and MoE to attract more students to come to Brunei to enjoy the environment in this country.
In addition, we are working also with JPMC and also PJSC in order to promote health tourism to this country. So this is indeed already being undertaken and in addition we are also looking at specialized agency overseas to cooperate with us to make sure that this proceeds smoothly. So, we need to find key partners overseas to enable this health tourism industry to run smoothly.
In terms of Islam, the Islamic tourism industry is already ongoing. Alhamdulillah, for example during Ramadan there is a Ramadan Tourism Package and also a Maulud Nabi Tourism Package being carried out in this country to attract not only from Sarawak, not only Islamic countries, but also Thailand and also from Middle East countries to come to Brunei to enjoy the atmosphere of Ramadan and the celebrations of Islamic occasions in this country.
That is perhaps all, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, that is all that kaola can answer, perhaps and the rest, insya Allah, kaola will provide the answers in writing in a more orderly and also more detailed manner. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you, with the acknowledgment of Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan that he will answer the questions that could not be answered accurately this morning, insya Allah, in writing and these will be directed straight to the relevant Your Honourable Members who raised the questions for that purpose. Therefore, I think it is now time for us to vote on this Title. Your Honourable Members who agree, please raise your hands.
(All Members raised their hands as a sign of agreement)
It appears that all Members agree, therefore this Title is approved.
(Gavel struck)
Yang Mulia Jurutulis​
Title SH01A to SH06A be made part of the Schedule. Title SJ01A Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. Title SJ01A for the Ministry of Religious Affairs. I now open it for debate. 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 Allah’s mercy and blessings. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. Kaola touches on Title SJ01A Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Kaola is debating matters related to the importance of preserving hukum syarak and daily life, particularly in the aspect of the use of halal and haram goods in Negara Brunei Darussalam. On this occasion, kaola would like to raise several questions to Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama regarding the monitoring of halal and haram goods that do not consist of food and beverages. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, as we are aware, the need to ensure that a product is halal is not only limited to food and beverages but also covers various other types of goods used in daily life.
For example, there are perfumes and fragranced products that may contain alcohol or ingredients whose sources are unclear. Leather goods such as bags, shoes and accessories may possibly be made from animal sources that were not slaughtered according to hukum syarak or from non-halal animals, as well as brushes such as makeup brushes or painting brushes that may use hair from animals of doubtful status.
In addition, this also includes cosmetic products, personal care products and others that may potentially contain ingredients that do not comply with halal standards. In this regard, kaola would like to know what procedures and monitoring have been set by the ministry together with the relevant agencies in ensuring that these non-food goods comply with hukum syarak, especially for imported products marketed in this country. Next, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, kaola would also like to obtain clarification regarding the guidelines or standards used in determining the halal or haram status of such goods.
Is there a certification, labelling or specific verification system that is made compulsory, and to what extent is enforcement carried out against products that do not comply with those standards? In addition, kaola would also like to know what awareness and consumer education measures have been implemented by the ministry in helping the public understand the importance of choosing goods with a clear status, especially for products that do not have sufficient labelling.
In kaola’s view, in a market that is increasingly open and filled with various products from within and outside the country, comprehensive monitoring as well as clear guidelines are very important to ensure that consumer confidence is always preserved and in line with the requirements of hukum syarak. That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir.
Yang Berhormat Haji Awang Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. Kaola touches on Title SJ01A - Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ugama. Kaola is pleased to debate matters related to the importance of determining the dates of Islamic celebrations in Negara Brunei Darussalam.
On this occasion, kaola would like to raise several questions to Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama regarding the process of determining the hilal or new moon which forms the basis for fixing the beginning of the Hijrah month, including determining Islamic occasions such as the beginning of Ramadan, Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidiladha. As we are already aware, this method of determining the new moon involves ruqyah, namely sighting the new moon, as well as hisab, namely astronomical calculation carried out according to certain guidelines. In this regard, kaola would like to know what procedures and methods are used by the ministry in determining the hilal and to what extent these two methods are combined to ensure certainty and uniformity in determining those important dates.
Next, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola would also like to obtain clarification regarding regional cooperation, particularly among ASEAN countries that also use a nearly similar approach to determining the new moon. Does Negara Brunei Darussalam coordinate decisions with certain countries in this region and, if so, what form of coordination is implemented.
In addition, kaola would also like to know the hilal observation locations used, whether within the country or those connected with other areas in the Asian region. For example, in Negara Brunei Darussalam, hilal observation is usually carried out at several strategic locations such as coastal areas suitable for sighting the new moon.
However, are there certain locations in ASEAN countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia or other countries that are also used as references or have alignment in terms of hilal determination together with Negara Brunei Darussalam. This matter is important to ensure uniformity in the observance of Islamic celebrations in this region while strengthening cooperation in religious affairs. That is all. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Subject to the answer from Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama. I think the two matters raised by that Honourable Member have in fact long been answered and have also already become our practice here in Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Later I will invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama to answer them more precisely. For us here, I think there is no need to question those two matters any further. Yes, Yang Berhormat Pehin.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola heard the questions just now, with your pardon, together with the remarks from Yang Berhormat Pengerusi himself that those methods are already known to us here under the law, indeed provided for by law, meaning the determination of the new moon after ruqyah. First, we use and hold to hukum syarak that the determination must be by ruqyah, although there is agreement with countries in the MABIMS group, there is agreement there to determine the criteria of the new moon as to whether it may be observed or may possibly be seen according to its altitude, duration and within certain ranges in accordance with astronomical methods, and we agree, while at the same time we in Negara Brunei Darussalam do not depart from our position of carrying out ruqyah.
That is already the norm. So the issue of non-uniformity or uniformity does not actually arise at this time. God willing. So if that can serve as kaola’s answer, then it is to make matters easier, so that we need not raise further questions on matters that are already commonly known and already agreed upon or accepted by the majority of us ourselves, and even those who do not agree do not, for example, celebrate on a different day from us in this country, nor do they pray differently from us; all comply with the existing determination. That is what kaola can explain. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama for the confirmation given. I invite 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​
Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
First, regarding Code 001/007 Zakat, Wakaf and Baitulmal Management. Alhamdulillah, from the explanation delivered by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama there has been an increase in zakat fitrah and zakat on wealth collections in 2025 compared to the previous year, as well as in the number of zakat payers, muzaki. This shows that the initiatives currently being implemented involving the collection process, ease of payment access and dissemination of information have contributed to this increase. Kaola is in fact also very interested in the explanation regarding the transformation from the traditional wakaf module to productive wakaf. Towards that end, kaola seeks clarification on the ministry’s forward steps in facilitating and encouraging the people in this country who wish to contribute this productive wakaf.
Second, related to Code 003/002 Islamic Legislation. In April 2025, Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam titah that the relevant agencies further refine the existing guidelines to ensure that every Al-Quran mushaf publication material published, printed and distributed in this country meets high standards and that its sanctity is preserved by establishing a special act on the publication, printing and restoration of mushaf Al-Quran for Negara Brunei Darussalam.
The status of the mushaf Al-Quran is very high and preserved, requiring a more specific, authoritative approach and not one of a general nature as in the supervision of other published materials. Towards that end, kaola would like to seek the latest status regarding the steps taken for the purpose of drafting that special act, especially regarding efforts implemented by the ministry together with the Ministry of Home Affairs to refine and align the existing legal framework so that there is no overlap or weakness from the enforcement aspect with the proposed drafting of that special act, and whether the ministry plans to establish a national-level entity or body with specific capacity and authority that plays a role in the aspects of review, verification, certification and enforcement as exists in several other Islamic countries; and
Third, related to Code 001/006. In Financial Year 2024/2025 MUIB appointed UNISSA to conduct a study on the main causes of the increasing number of assistance applications for living expenses. Alhamdulillah. Kaola is of the view that many findings from this research can be utilised and improvements can be made, especially regarding the causes of this situation. Likewise, those related to the processing period implemented by zakat agencies in neighbouring countries. Towards that end, can the initiatives made so far in implementing some of the recommendations proposed in that study be shared, including in increasing collection transparency and efforts to improve the TPOR of this assistance process.
Next, kaola would like to touch on the ministry’s target related to exploring dynamic economic development opportunities. Kaola welcomes the setting of this target, except that to increase involvement in the halal food industry several requirements need to be fulfilled, not only in terms of compliance in certification but also in terms of sufficient and continuous supply volume. Likewise for Islamic financial products, this will require financial institutions to introduce syariah compliant products approved by appointed syariah experts. Towards that end, kaola seeks clarification on the ministry’s future steps in exploring and increasing the country’s involvement in this halal industry, including in producing and increasing more local Islamic finance experts who are skilled in both conventional finance and syariah-compliant finance.
And lastly, the ministry’s new Key Performance Indicator introduced this year is the number of initiatives carried out by the Halal Food Control Division in helping local entrepreneurs obtain Halal Permit Certificates, such as carrying out cooperation with interested agencies and establishing volunteer groups. Can it be shared specifically what the forms of initiative actually are and what strategic outcome will result from this collaboration? Will this initiative also be able to shorten the existing process and reduce the backlog of halal certification applications at this time. I apologise, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, more than 22 seconds, thank you (soft laughter).
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
I invite, 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. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Kaola refers to several matters under Title SJ01A Ministry of Religious Affairs. First, for Code 005/000 Preservation and Promotion of Intellect for Kolej Universiti Perguruan Ugama Seri Begawan KUPUSB with an Expenditure Estimate of BND10.8 million. Kaola seeks clarification in line with the nation's aspiration to produce human capital that is knowledgeable, skilled and competitive.
First, to what extent have measures been taken to ensure that the academic qualifications and certificates of KUPUSB graduates remain relevant to current needs and are able to improve their marketability and employability rate? Second, what efforts are being implemented to expand the professional competencies of these graduates, not only in the field of religious teaching but also in other fields required by the public and private sectors?
Kaola would also like to suggest that the marketability and employability rate of the graduates of this college be included as one of the institution's Key Performance Indicators, KPI, to assess the quality, effectiveness and actual impact of this institution on the development of the nation's human capital, while at the same time ensuring that KUPUSB remains relevant and able to contribute significantly to the country's strategic direction.
Next, Kaola refers to the ministry's overall allocation amounting to BND280.3 million covering programmes for the preservation of property, religion, life, lineage and intellect. Kaola welcomes the statement by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama on 19 March 2026 regarding plans to develop a digital ecosystem for zakat management including the use of artificial intelligence technology, AI. Likewise, the technology-based initiatives explained when Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama answered the questions raised by fellow appointed Your Honourable Members earlier.
This is very much in line with the direction of Wawasan Brunei 2035 and consistent with the Brunei Digital Transformation Plan 2030 which emphasises service efficiency, integrity and citizen-centred delivery. In that regard, Kaola is of the view that apart from zakat, this digital transformation should be expanded comprehensively to include core religious services which are still carried out manually at the ministry such as waqf and baitulmal management, matters related to halal services, education and also dakwah.
Therefore, kaola would like to suggest that the Ministry of Religious Affairs, in collaboration with relevant agencies, consider the development of one integrated digital system platform for the management of religious services centrally, rather than building them separately for each department. This will support more comprehensive data management, faster, more transparent and more responsive information processing and service delivery. Kaola is confident that this approach can improve service delivery efficiency, strengthen the ministry's governance and data integrity, while elevating the status of religious services in this country so that they remain relevant and up to date, easily accessible and high impact on par with other services.
Lastly, kaola refers to several new KPI of the ministry which assess the number of activities and programmes implemented throughout the financial year. Although assessment based on the number of activities is necessary to monitor work implementation, kaola is of the view that it is also important for such KPI to assess the achievement of outcomes and the real impact of planned programmes in order to provide a more accurate picture of programme effectiveness and to ensure that every budget truly contributes to improving the quality of religious services and the well-being of the people. That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
I invite, Awang Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola touches on Title SJ01A Ministry of Religious Affairs in relation to the progress of the implementation of hudud law, which is part of the Syariah Penal Code Order that began to be enforced in stages starting in 2014. As we are aware, the implementation of this law has gone through several phases to ensure readiness in terms of legislation, administration as well as public understanding. In this regard, kaola would like to know, what is the latest development in the implementation of hudud law so far? Has its implementation reached the targeted stage and to what extent has it been effective in educating and preventing criminal offences among society?
Next, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola would also like to seek clarification regarding the types of offences that fall under hudud law as provided for in that legislation. For example, offences such as zina, qadzf namely accusations of zina without evidence, theft namely sariqah, robbery hirabah, drinking alcohol and the offence of apostasy, each of which has certain evidentiary requirements and punishments according to syarak law.
However, I would like to know to what extent these offences have been recorded and handled under the provisions of the relevant law. In addition, kaola would also like to know what steps have been taken by the ministry in providing understanding to the public regarding the implementation of this law so that misunderstandings do not arise and to ensure that it is understood in the context of justice, education and prevention.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In kaola's view, the implementation of hudud law not only requires a strong system but also clear understanding among the public so that the true purpose of its implementation can be achieved properly. Thank you, 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. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. Kaola would like to touch on Title SJ01A Ministry of Religious Affairs. Kaola would like to seek clarification from the Ministry of Religious Affairs regarding the appointment of jurunikah as an effort to further strengthen public understanding of the role and the existing courses.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama. Given that the role of jurunikah is very important in ensuring that the marriage solemnisation is carried out properly, in accordance with syarak law and the laws of the country, kaola would like to seek clarification on this matter.
First, what is the mechanism for the appointment of jurunikah currently practised and is there room for qualified individuals to be considered to submit an official application? Second, what are the qualification requirements that have been set, particularly in terms of religious educational background, understanding of marriage laws, and aspects of personality and integrity? Third, does the ministry provide continuous training, guidance or strengthening to ensure that jurunikah are always alert to procedures and the current needs of society?
Next, kaola would like clarification regarding the distribution of zakat to the asnaf group, particularly in terms of the uniformity of assistance received. Kaola understands that there are quite significant differences in the amount of assistance, where some recipients receive around BND65, while others receive up to BND200. In this regard, kaola would like to seek clarification on what assessment method and criteria are used in determining the rate of zakat distribution to each recipient. Second, is this difference based on the asnaf category, level of need, or other factors that have been determined? Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
And Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin​
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Greetings of peace. Eid greetings, apologies physically and spiritually. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Kaola goes straight to refer to Title SJ01A Code 003/008 - Services and Enforcement and the budget of BND76 million.
Kaola would like to seek clarification regarding the measures taken to speed up the halal certification application process, considering that during the dialogue session with the Syariah Office, many were still waiting among the tens of thousands of halal certificate assessments. To what extent are efforts being implemented to improve the efficiency of the assessment process, including evaluating the addition of human resources, the use of technology and procedural improvements so that applications can be processed more quickly without affecting the integrity of certification, as well as further enhancing monitoring to ensure continued compliance with halal certificate standards?
In that regard, to what extent is there planning to assess and utilise the Brunei halal certificate brand so that it continues to be preserved and expanded more aggressively, not merely to preserve local halal food and services and not merely to fulfil requirements and preserve akidah, but also to generate and expand the country's economy through the halal industry, penetrating the Global Halal Market valued at USD2.3 to USD2.8 trillion for 2023 - 2025. As a suggestion, is the ministry considering establishing a statutory body agency or a special authority agency responsible for the process of assessment, monitoring and compliance of halal certification without taking over the responsibility of the Majlis Ugama Islam Brunei as the ultimate agency issuing halal certificates. This is because it has the potential to improve process efficiency, strengthen halal certificate governance and open employment opportunities and generate new economic activities in the national halal ecosystem for the domestic market and continue penetrating the global market.
Second question, SJ01A Preservation and Promotion of Religion, referring to Title SJ001A Code 002/000 and referring to Section 220 under the Syariah Penal Code Order, 2013 which aims to protect the dignity of Islam from any form of direct or indirect insult. To what extent does the ministry assess whether serious cases of halal certificate abuse committed knowingly by offenders, such as storing impure materials like pork meat and blood on premises mixed with materials for preparing halal food and the importation of meats already known to be non-halal solely to gain profit by providers, particularly in curbing abuse of halal certificates which could affect the image of the sanctity of religion and public confidence? Are such offences included under Section 220 under the Syariah Penal Code Order, 2013 and not merely regarded as misuse of halal certificates.
The third question is also about halal. To what extent may kaola seek clarification on what mechanisms are implemented to ensure that foreign vendors selling food in Brunei Darussalam during expos or on a temporary basis comply with the country's halal certification regulations and to what extent are the screening, approval and monitoring processes carried out before and during their participation, considering that halal certification from their country of origin may not be equivalent and is not automatically accepted unless approval or recognition is obtained from the authorities in Brunei Darussalam. Are there specific guidelines or maximum temporary certification, temporary pre-certification for foreign vendor so that it is fair with local vendors? That is all. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi​
Your Honourable Members. Before I ask Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama to debate or give his response to the matters raised by the appointed Your Honourable Members earlier, I think it would be best for us to adjourn this Committee meeting and we will reconvene in the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara.
(Committee meeting adjourned)
(Majlis Mesyuarat reconvened)
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua​
Your Honourable Members. We reconvene in the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara sitting. I think that is enough for our sitting this morning, and I propose that we adjourn this meeting.
God willing, we will reconvene starting from 2.00 this afternoon. That is all. And with Allah's guidance and blessings, peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings.
(Meeting adjourned)
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