10 Aug 26 Morning (Day 5)

Reading Summary

📖 Reading time: 55 minutes
📊 Word count: 10,737 words

(The meeting began at 9.30 a.m.)

Yang Mulia Jurutulis

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. The Second Meeting of the 22nd Session of the Legislative Council convenes on its fifth day today, Monday, 26 Safar 1448 corresponding to 10 August 2026 and is preceded by the recitation of Doa Selamat.

DOA SELAMAT

(Doa selamat was recited by Yang Mulia Begawan Mudim Awang Haji Tamin bin Haji Puting)

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta'ala wabarakatuh.

Alhamdulillah, we are grateful to Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala because by His bounty, mercy and permission alone, we are able to be present this morning for the fifth day of the Second Meeting in the 22nd Session of the Legislative Council.

Blessings and peace be upon our Great Leader Sayyidina Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wassalam, his family members, companions and his obedient and loyal followers until the end of time.

Your Honourable Members. We will begin today with the next business of the meeting.

Yang Mulia Jurutulis

Oral Question Time.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Your Honourable Members. I now open the floor for question time for one hour.

I begin with the first question received from Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.

Please proceed, Yang Berhormat.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta'ala wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, first of all kaola would like to express thanks to Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed.

For the question on how the government ensures that the national telecommunications industry remains competitive in terms of price, data capacity and service innovation, especially as users now increasingly have more choices of cross-border digital services.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, in principle the government through the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications as well as the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam, AITI always ensures the competitiveness of the telecommunications industry through three main approaches.

Namely ensuring healthy competition, encouraging the offering of services that provide value to users and promoting innovation and the improvement of service quality.

In terms of price, based on international assessment through the ITU ICT Price Basket 2025, Negara Brunei Darussalam is in second place in ASEAN for all indicator after the Republic of Singapore and 29th out of 208 countries in the world.

The country is also categorised as target met for mobile and fixed broadband service prices. This achievement reflects the government's continuous efforts in ensuring quality, affordable and inclusive digital services in line with the aspirations of Digital Brunei 2030.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

In addition to looking at price alone, the ministry through AITI also takes into account other factors including the value received by users in terms of the amount of data, features and benefits of the services offered.

For example, the price of entry-level postpaid plans has decreased by 60 per cent, plans which previously offered 8 gigabyte at a price of BND30 now provide up to 18 gigabyte, which means the cost per gigabyte has decreased by more than 55 per cent. At the same time, local operators also offer various options as well as unlimited calls and SMS and data-specific plans. This gives users more choices to select packages that suit their respective needs and usage.

In terms of innovation, the ministry will continue to encourage operators to improve quality, introduce new services and adapt their offerings to changes in digital usage patterns.

This is important because competition at present is no longer only between one operator and another within the country. Users are also increasingly exposed to various digital services from abroad that may offer more attractive prices, content or features.

Therefore, local operators need to always look at users' needs and expectations and continue innovating so that the services offered remain relevant and competitive.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In relation to the use of cross-border services including roaming, the ministry understands that some users may choose services from foreign providers for certain factors including coverage, network compatibility, price and needs while abroad.

However, it should be clarified that roaming tariffs are determined commercially through International Roaming Agreements between operators and their respective international partners and are not set by AITI.

Nevertheless, AITI will continue to encourage operators to negotiate and offer more competitive roaming packages and provide better value to users.

At the same time, the ministry will continue to ensure a regulatory environment that is fair, transparent and conducive to competition. This includes through market monitoring, ongoing discussions with UNN and operators such as DST, Imagine and Progresif as well as taking into account technological developments and changes in user needs.

In matters related to price setting, package structures and the added value of a service, ultimately these are commercial decisions of each operator.

Therefore, the operators themselves need to play a role in continuing to innovate, improving quality and offering competitive value in order to remain the public's choice.

This healthy competition will in turn benefit users through better choices, reasonable prices and quality services.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In conclusion, in facing increasingly broad digital choices across borders, the ministry's approach is not to prevent users from obtaining foreign services but to ensure that the local industry has an environment that enables it to continue competing.

With policies and regulation that support healthy competition as well as continuous cooperation with the industry, we want to ensure that users in this country continue to have choices of quality services, sufficient data capacity, reasonable prices and services that continue to develop according to the needs of the times.

That is all for now that kaola can share on this matter. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

The next question is from Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin which is also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. First of all kaola seek permission to answer these questions together with question 3 and question 4, namely from Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman and from Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. First of all kaola would like to explain that the ministry views public transport not merely as a commercial service but as an important public facility in improving the people's quality of life, supporting economic activities and connecting areas in this country.

Therefore, the ministry's goal is not only to increase the number of buses or routes but to develop a public transport system that is more efficient, accessible, integrated and resilient in accordance with the needs of the population.

In this matter, the ministry is actively examining appropriate approaches in ensuring that public transport services can continue to be provided sustainably, with quality and with ease of access for the public.

Therefore, the ministry views this public transport service approach through two main models, namely: First, bus services on main routes particularly in areas that have high passenger demand with fixed routes and schedules; and

Second, a bus service based on the concept of On-Demand Responsive Transit or better known as Demand Responsive Transit, DRT.

Through this approach, bus services are more flexible and can be adjusted according to public demand. This approach is particularly suitable for areas that receive less coverage or that do not have sufficient passenger demand for fixed bus routes.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In terms of implementation, the ministry has gone through several stages of the assessment process:

First, Request for Information for Core Bus Network Services and Smart Transportation System which was issued on 6 December 2023 and closed on 1 February 2024; and

Second, through the Request for Proposal for the provision, operation, management and maintenance of public transport services which was issued on 2 October 2024 and closed on 11 March 2025.

As a result of that assessment, insya Allah a company has been identified as having the potential to offer DRT services.

Accordingly, the Land Transport Department has already issued a license to operate to the company concerned on 30 April 2026.

Even so, certainly the matter still requires further updating and preparation particularly in terms of the readiness of the operator, operations and the required infrastructure.

Therefore, in relation to the question of whether this service will begin operating in early 2027, the ministry plans to commence this DRT service in stages.

At the initial stage, this service will involve two zones first before being expanded to other zones.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Developments in public transport are also not focused only on bus services but also involve infrastructure improvements and the use of technology. Under the 12th National Development Plan, the Land Transport Department is implementing several initiatives.

Among these initiatives are upgrading, updating and installing bus poles and bus shelters throughout the country. This is to improve passenger comfort and safety.

In addition, there are also efforts to provide and upgrade public transport infrastructure to support bus operations including the application of technology through the Smart Transportation System or STS to help make traffic and transport management more efficient.

At the same time, a real time bus tracking system through a mobile application will be introduced. Through this system, the public will be able to make on demand bus bookings, know the location of the bus and its estimated time of arrival, insya Allah.

It is hoped that this will make bus services easier to use, transparent and subsequently increase public confidence in using public transport.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

The ministry is also aware that public transport has an important social dimension. Not all citizens have access to private vehicles and there are certain groups who depend more on public transport to go to work, school and obtain basic services.

In this connection, issues related to public transport services have also been discussed together with Yang Berhormat Menteri Penyelaras bagi Dasar-Dasar Sosial dan Tenaga Manusia dan Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, who also emphasised the importance of public bus transport in improving the quality of life of the people in this country.

Among the matters discussed were the need to hold trial services or pilot projects including DRT as well as to conduct further study from social and transport aspects.

This study takes into account the needs of groups in need including those who have limitations in terms of access to transport while also assessing the effectiveness, sustainability and affordability of the service.

In this connection, the ministry is examining operating methods, reasonable fare rates and suitable forms of support for operators. This is important because public transport services in most countries require government support particularly when passenger numbers are still low while fares need to be maintained at a level affordable to the public.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. All these efforts are not solely to support Visit Brunei Year 2027, although better public transport will certainly make it easier for tourists to move to places of attraction in this country.

More importantly, what is being undertaken is a form of long-term investment for the people so that they have better transport choices, particularly those who do not have private vehicles.

In implementing this matter, the ministry will continue to work together with the relevant ministries, government agencies, operators and stakeholders through a whole of nation approach.

In conclusion, the ministry's direction is to develop a more comprehensive public transport ecosystem by combining suitable bus routes, DRT services, better infrastructure, the use of technology as well as the forms of support required.

On this occasion as well, kaola is pleased to record the highest appreciation and thanks to local bus operators and other public transport service providers for their contributions and cooperation in providing public transport services to the public in this country.

That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

With the answers given by Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi, we move to question number 5, PL284 received from Yang Berhormat Awang Lau How Teck, addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan. Please proceed, Yang Berhormat.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan

Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

Thank you Yang Berhormat Awang Lau How Teck for the question raised. The Ministry of Education is aware that the rapid development of technology, automation and Artificial Intelligence is changing the employment landscape as well as the competencies required by industry.

Therefore, the ministry is implementing five main strategies to ensure that the higher education and TVET system remains responsive and that graduates are ready to meet the needs of future industry and the economy: First, ensuring that the curriculum is always relevant. Starting this year, Public Higher Education Institutions and TVET Institutions will strengthen the curriculum through the introduction of core modules related to new and developing technologies or emerging technologies as well as sustainability skills.

Elements of digital literacy, AI, automation, data analytics and related technologies are also systematically integrated into existing programmes. This step is intended to ensure that every graduate, regardless of field of study, has a sufficient digital foundation and understanding of the technologies that are shaping future industries and jobs.

The curriculum is also reviewed regularly based on technological developments, employer feedback and the views of industry advisory panels. The Ministry also collaborates with the Manpower Planning Office, Prime Minister's Office as well as the Manpower Industry Steering Committee to align education and training programmes with industry competency requirements and the actual demands of the job market;

Second, transforming learning methods. Higher Education and TVET Institutions will expand project-based learning, real problem-solving and collaborative projects with industry.

This approach is intended to develop critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving ability. A culture of lifelong learning is also fostered so that graduates are able to upgrade and renew their skills in line with changes in technology and economic structures;

Third, strengthening collaboration with industry and the private sector. The implementation of industrial training and apprenticeships will continue to be improved so that they are more organised and structured, including through mentoring by industry practitioners, joint research and professional certification. This exposure to the real work environment is important to develop practical competencies, industry readiness as well as understanding of employer expectations, performance culture and productivity standards;

Fourth, strengthening character, personality and soft skills. In the AI era, technical skills alone are not sufficient. Higher Education and TVET Institutions will strengthen MIB values as well as skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, adaptability and ethical judgment through curriculum, co-curriculum, community service, industrial training and institutional culture. This is intended to produce graduates who are not only skilled in using technology but are also of integrity, responsible and resilient; and

Fifth, strengthening data-based programme improvement. The Ministry uses the findings of the Graduate Employment Study and Employer Satisfaction Survey to assess graduate employability as well as the level of employer satisfaction.

Starting this year, the Feature Analysis Model will be implemented across all IPTA to assess programme performance based on demand, graduation rate, cost, employability, relevance, employment and median salary.

These findings will be used to improve, restructure or introduce programmes that are more aligned with the needs of industry and national development. The Ministry of Education will continue to ensure that higher education and TVET remain responsive to technological changes and industry needs and produce graduates who are skilled, of character and ready to contribute to the future economy. Thank you.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

The next question is from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman which is also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan. Please proceed.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan

Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman for the question raised.

As explained by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama last Saturday, the role of the Halalan Tayyibban Research Centre, PPHT, UNISSA can indeed continue to be further enhanced to assist the industry in ensuring that food production processes including slaughtering meet halal requirements and Islamic law.

In this regard, collaboration between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and UNISSA has already been implemented through a memorandum of understanding signed on 2 February 2023.

Among them is through the Projek Rakan Penyelia Halal which gives UNISSA students the opportunity to undergo industrial training as halal supervisors in training at halal industry premises under the supervision of the Halal Food Control Division.

PPHT can contribute through its expertise in research and analysis scientific including verification of raw materials, methods of stunning and halal slaughtering as well as studies related to halal assurance systems, food safety and halal technology to meet the needs of the authorities and industry.

As for the halal certification process, UNISSA does not have the authority to approve halal certificates and permits. However, UNISSA can assist operators before an official application is submitted.

Among them are through halal-related courses and training, advisory services, review of documentation readiness and compliance as well as the development of halal assurance systems.

This step can help operators make better preparations and reduce shortcomings in the applications submitted.

However, the functions of regulatory inspection, enforcement as well as approval of halal certificates and permits remain under the designated authorities as explained by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama.

With this division of roles, UNISSA's expertise can be utilised to support the halal certification process without taking over regulatory functions. Thank you.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

A question from Yang Berhormat Awang Lau How Teck addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola would like to record appreciation to Yang Berhormat Awang Lau How Teck for the question regarding the ministry's efforts to ensure that the implementation of Digital Brunei 2030 can deliver tangible results to local enterprises.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Digital Brunei 2030 is the national digital transformation roadmap that provides a framework for developing the digital ecosystem of Brunei Darussalam covering the government, society and business sectors until 2030.

The preparation of the Digital Brunei 2030 plan was carried out through several engagement sessions with various stakeholders including the Chambers of Commerce to obtain views in an effort to ensure that the plan formulated takes into account the needs and aspirations of various sectors.

To ensure that this digital transformation can contribute to increased productivity, innovation and competitiveness of local enterprises, the ministry focuses on four main complementary strategies, namely Digital Government, Digital Society, Digital Business and Data and AI.

First, through Digital Government. The ministry strives to expand the use of digital services and applications in every delivery of government services. In addition to streamlining processes and reducing bureaucracy; Second, Digital Society. By focusing on improving the digital literacy and skills of the people and workforce in ensuring that Brunei Darussalam has human resources that are ready to meet the needs of the digital economy and support the growth of local enterprises;

Third, through Digital Business. The ministry is committed to encouraging the use of technology as well as secure and efficient digital payments, facilitating business dealings, reducing transaction costs and helping local enterprises improve operational efficiency; and

Fourth, Data and AI will strengthen the ability of enterprises to leverage data, Artificial Intelligence and analytic in making decisions, increasing productivity and producing more innovative products and services.

All four of these main strategies have a direct relationship with productivity, innovation and competitiveness. More efficient processes increase productivity. Access to Data and AI stimulates innovation, while a digitally skilled workforce strengthens the competitiveness of enterprises including in the regional market.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. The ministry realises that a good plan will only have an impact if its implementation is effective. Therefore, we cannot only depend on planning alone but must also pay attention to its implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement.

This can be carried out through the involvement of various stakeholders, particularly the private sector, academic institutions and industry players to ensure that the policies and initiatives formulated truly take current needs into account.

Engagement sessions will also continue to be carried out and enhanced to obtain feedback, assess progress and identify challenges so that the approaches taken always remain relevant to technological developments and current needs.

In related matters as well, the ministry will continuously provide support to local enterprises, especially Small and Medium Enterprises through initiatives such as digital adaptation, skills development and pilot projects to help enterprises overcome challenges in adopting technology.

Performance monitoring is also important to ensure that these efforts produce measurable impact. Therefore, suitable performance indicators will be used to assess the development of the use of digital technology including digital exhibitions and AI as well as its benefits to enterprises.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. We all know that the success of digital transformation agencies cannot be achieved alone. Instead, it requires integrated cooperation between the government, private sector, academic institutions and society as a joint effort in realising the aspirations of Digital Brunei 2030.

In this regard, what we aspire to is that every policy and initiative implemented is practical and business-friendly, technology can be accessed at appropriate cost and digital knowledge and skills can continue to be developed.

Finally, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, Digital Brunei 2030 is not merely about technology but about the benefits that can be produced through technology.

Our goal is to ensure that every enterprise regardless of size can utilise digital technology to become more productive, more innovative and more competitive, not only within Brunei Darussalam but also at the regional level.

Technology is a tool. The measure of our success is the extent to which that tool can increase productivity, open opportunities and bring tangible benefits to the people and local enterprises.

That is all for now that kaola can share on this matter. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

The question from Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin is also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

First of all, kaola would like to express thanks to Yang Berhormat Awang Amran bin Haji Maidin for the question regarding the government's measures in strengthening prevention, enforcement, cooperation with financial institutions as well as victim protection against cybercrime, particularly online fraud or online scam.

The government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam views this issue seriously. Online fraud is now increasingly complex, using various channels such as telephone calls, social media, fake websites as well as unlicensed investment schemes.

In addressing this challenge, the ministry's approach is not only focused on enforcement after an incident occurs but also on the formation of a comprehensive prevention and protection ecosystem involving government agencies, financial institutions, industry parties and the public. In this matter, kaola would like to highlight four main approaches, namely:

First, prevention and public awareness. The Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry, AITI has launched the Waspada.bn platform in June 2025 as a fact-checking platform in dealing with false information.

As of 1 July 2026, the Waspada.bn Instagram account has published 226 posts in Malay and English covering warning-type content, explanations and false information. This effort will continue to be strengthened through social media, public broadcasts and community outreach programmes, particularly in increasing awareness of constantly evolving scam tactics.

At the same time, the ministry will also expand digital literacy and cyber safety education including in educational institutions so that a culture of vigilance can be built from an early stage;

Second, enforcement and legal action through a whole of government and whole of nation approach. The Anti-Scam Centre is among the main mechanisms in coordinating efforts to address online fraud.

The Anti-Scam Centre, ASC involves key agencies including the Royal Brunei Police Force, Cyber Security Brunei, AITI, Brunei Darussalam Central Bank as well as other related agencies.

The ASC helpline 16993, which began operations in August 2025, provides a channel for the public to obtain assistance and guidance related to online fraud cases. Cyber and digital forensic capabilities together with the relevant parties will continue to be enhanced to detect, investigate and take action against scam syndicates.

At the same time as well, taking into account also that this crime knows no borders, cooperation with international enforcement agencies and ASEAN partners will also be strengthened, particularly in addressing cross-border cybercrime;

Third, cooperation with financial institutions. In cases of online fraud, time is extremely critical. The faster a report is received and action is taken, the higher the chance of blocking fund transfers and recovering victims' money.

In this regard, the scam watch portal which is currently being developed and is now at the final stage of beta testing, is targeted to operate in the second quarter of 2027. This portal will become one of the main reporting platforms that enables information on scam cases to be channelled more quickly to support action to block fund transfers as well as increase the chances of returning money to victims.

Cooperation with Brunei Darussalam Central Bank and local banks will also continue to be strengthened particularly in rapid blocking mechanisms against accounts and transactions suspected of being related to fraud.

In addition, aspects of transaction security will continue to be given attention including the use of transaction authentication, transaction limits as well as immediate alerts for unusual or suspicious transactions; and

Fourth, victim protection and recovery. The ministry understands that the impact of fraud not only involves financial losses but in some circumstances also causes stress and emotional effects on victims.

Therefore, the 16993 Helpline will continue to be among the initial channels for victims to obtain advice and guidance. The scam watch portal in turn will facilitate the reporting process and help expedite follow-up action.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. What kaola wishes to emphasise here is that efforts to tackle online scam cannot depend on only one agency or one mechanism alone. The direction of this ministry is to move from an approach that is reactive in nature to one that is more proactive, integrated and prevention-based.

This means that we need to increase awareness before someone becomes a victim because behind every fraud case there is a person affected, perhaps our parents, our children, our relatives, even the people closest to us.

They are not merely numbers or statistics, they may have lost money earned through years of hard work and more sadly also lost their sense of trust and peace in daily life.

Therefore, we need to act earlier by speeding up detection when fraud occurs, strengthening enforcement action and at the same time ensuring that every victim is not left alone but instead receives assistance, support as well as the best possible opportunity to recover their money.

Our success is not measured only by the number of cases successfully investigated or actions taken but also by how far we are able to prevent the public from becoming victims and reduce losses due to online fraud.

Therefore, the ministry insya Allah will continue to strengthen all four of these pillars through close cooperation between government agencies, financial institutions, industry parties, international partners and most importantly the public, our own Bruneian people. Because in addressing cybercrime, digital security is a shared responsibility.

That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

The question from Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan

Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Before kaola answers this question, kaola would like to make a slight correction to kaola's answer just now for oral question PL284. The correct sentence is that the ministry also cooperates with the Department of Manpower and Employment, Ministry of Home Affairs and not as in the sentence that kaola mentioned earlier.

Alright, now kaola would like to answer Oral Question, PL305 from Yang Berhormat Awang Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann. Thank you Yang Berhormat for the question.

Regarding the Ministry of Education's strategy to strengthen TVET so that more youths choose the skills pathway which has high demand in the job market, the Ministry of Education focuses on three main matters:

First, ensuring TVET programmes are aligned with industry needs. TVET programmes are developed and updated based on labour market data, workforce needs projections as well as industry feedback through the Manpower Industry Steering Committee or MISC. At present, MISC focuses on six sectors namely energy, construction, transport and logistics, hospitality and tourism, information and communications technology or ICT, as well as food.

Through MISC cooperation, the types and number of jobs required by industry as well as critical jobs have been identified. This information is used to help education and training institutions align curriculum content, required competencies and programme offerings with the actual needs of the job market.

This year, IBTE is also carrying out curriculum restructuring by integrating digital skills, green technology and Artificial Intelligence so that graduates possess skills relevant to current and future job needs;

Second, expanding industry-based learning. This mechanism is implemented through apprenticeship programmes, industry placements and work-based learning. This approach gives students experience in a real work environment, enabling them to master competencies required by industry as well as build relationships with prospective employers.

As of September 2025, IBTE has 69 industry partners, consisting of 63 local partners and six international partners, and involving 694 students in apprenticeship programmes; and

Third, intensifying the promotion and exposure of TVET among students and secondary school leavers. This is done by providing clearer information on job prospects, career development and opportunities for further study. This includes IBTE's participation in the Higher Education Expo organised by the Ministry of Education, in addition to the implementation of the Hala Tuju Study at IBTE programme, IBTE Open Day and sharing sessions with industry parties.

IBTE is also developing a Career Hub and online career consultation services to provide information regarding programmes, skills, career pathways and job opportunities.

At the same time, the quality of teaching staff, workshop and laboratory facilities as well as digital infrastructure continue to be improved in stages to support programmes in high demand and increase student intake capacity. Through this approach, the ministry seeks to increase youths' interest in TVET and ensure graduates possess the competencies as well as experience required by employers.

This effort is intended to increase graduate employability and contribute to reducing the youth unemployment rate. Thank you.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Next, a question from Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed which is also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pendidikan

Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed for the question raised.

In fact, the Ministry of Education does continue to give attention to the development of life skills in producing outstanding students, while at the same time equipping them to face the challenges of real life.

At present, elements of safety, health, risk management and preparedness have already been infused across the curriculum through various subjects such as Melayu Islam Beraja, Pengetahuan Ugama Islam, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Information and Communications Technology or ICT, Malay, English as well as Arabic.

Among the content applied in these subjects are elements of safety at home, at school and cyber safety, compliance with rules and laws as well as responsibility as members of society.

Meanwhile, these elements are also strengthened through co-curricular activities in schools. These co-curricular activities are carried out together with relevant agencies as exposure to first aid skills and fire safety. For this purpose, uniformed teams have been established in schools such as Scouts, Girl Guides, Red Crescent, Fire and Rescue Cadets, Police Cadets as well as Military Cadets.

A total of six government secondary schools have Fire and Rescue Cadet teams, while another 12 government secondary schools have Red Crescent Teams with the hope that these students can act as first responders in emergency situations at school.

Among the activities implemented throughout 2024 to 2025 include Basic First Aid Equipment Training, Firefighting Skills Competition as well as Red Crescent Cadet Syllabus Workshop.

That is all, thank you.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

The next question is from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md. Yusof addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola seeks permission to answer questions 11 and 12 together because both touch on the same objective.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. As we move towards implementing the Digital Brunei Masterplan 2030 as well as in planning to develop an AI-Capable Data Center, National Sovereign Cloud with AI compute capabilities and a Large Language Model or LLM.

This Ministry sees digital sovereignty or digital sovereign as a matter of growing importance. Digital infrastructure can be developed with technology and expertise from outside, but digital sovereignty depends on the extent to which we have our own capability and expertise to manage as well as develop that technology.

Therefore, the Ministry's approach is not to avoid the involvement of vendors or outside expertise because international expertise is indeed still required. However, what needs to be emphasised here is that such involvement must be accompanied by the transfer of knowledge, technological experience and expertise to local parties so that we can reduce long-term dependence on outside parties.

Accordingly, the Ministry is taking several main approaches, namely:

First, strengthening the participation of local companies and manpower. In strengthening the participation of local companies, government tenders are basically only open to companies registered in Negara Brunei Darussalam except for companies given special permission.

This approach provides space and opportunity for local companies to participate in government projects, build experience and enhance expertise through the implementation of actual projects. At the same time, it also cannot be denied that local companies need to collaborate with foreign companies to gain access to the latest technology and expertise.

However, such collaboration must be accompanied by knowledge and technology transfer, enhancement of expertise as well as development of the local workforce so that its benefits are not merely bringing in solutions from outside but also building local capability and expertise in the long term;

Second, the government itself is building internal technical capability to reduce dependence on external vendors. In this matter, the role of the E-Government National Centre, EGNC is very important in developing the government's capability towards in-house application development. At present, some government officers and staff already have capability in application development.

Where, alhamdulillah, several applications have been successfully developed in-house. This shows that the development of internal capability is no longer merely an aspiration but has begun to produce digital solutions used in government services.

This capability, insya Allah, will continue to be strengthened through Gov.BN 2.0 using an agile approach so that more applications and digital solutions can be developed, maintained and improved by the government itself according to needs;

Third, for projects that require outside vendors, the implementation approach must be based on capability development and not merely on system delivery. Government officers need to be actively involved throughout project implementation from the early stage until the system is used and maintained. Training and knowledge sharing must form part of every project.

In this way, when the project is completed, the government not only receives the system developed but also has officers who understand and are able to manage it. In other words, outside vendors may bring the required technology and expertise but transfer of knowledge and capability must also be carried out;

Fourth, the government is strengthening the ecosystem and capability of local ICT companies. At present, there are 437 ICT companies registered in Negara Brunei Darussalam which form an important foundation in developing a stronger and more competitive local ICT ecosystem.

Through AITI, the IKTIRAF initiative will be introduced as an accreditation mechanism for local ICT companies. This will help the government assess companies' capability in terms of competency, experience, local workforce, financial capacity and track record. In addition to the opportunities provided by the government, local ICT companies also need to take steps to improve their own competitiveness.

We want local companies to dare to innovate, not merely depend on off the shelf solutions but to increase investment in research and development. We also want them to build deeper and more specialised expertise including in areas such as AI powered fintech, cybersecurity, agritech and digital health.

We want more collaboration among local companies through strategic partnerships, consortium and joint ventures so that expertise and resources can be combined to take part in bigger and more complex projects; and

Fifth, the development of national ICT talent and competencies must move in step with technological developments. The Ministry has introduced the Brunei ICT Industry Competency Framework as a guide to identify the types of jobs and skills required in the ICT field.

At present, BIICF covers 39 job roles and is expected to be expanded to 60 roles by 2027. This is important because technology is constantly changing and developing.

Therefore, our workforce also needs to continuously upgrade its skills so as to always be ready to meet future needs.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. All these approaches lead to one principle that kaola wishes to emphasise, we do not want merely to buy technology, we want to build capability. We do not want merely to implement projects, we want to leave behind expertise and we do not want merely to be users of technology, we want to be creators and owners of our own digital solutions. This is what is meant by digital sovereignty.

Digital sovereignty does not mean that we need to develop everything ourselves or close the door to international expertise, rather it means that our country has the capability, choice and control to determine how our data is managed, how our systems are operated and how technology is used in the interest of the country.

Therefore, as we develop the AI-Capable Data Centre, National Sovereign Cloud with AI Compute Capabilities and LLM, we want to ensure that the development of that infrastructure is also accompanied by the development of human resources, local companies and local technical capability, the involvement of outside vendors if required must be a bridge to build local capability, not a path to continued dependence.

This Ministry's aspiration by 2035 and beyond is that Negara Brunei Darussalam will not only have modern, secure and resilient digital infrastructure but will also have competitive local companies, a highly skilled workforce as well as internal technical capability to develop and manage its own digital solutions.

With that, we will not merely become a digitally connected country but also digitally capable, digitally resilient and sovereign in the digital space, insya Allah.

That is all, thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Alhamdulillah, we have reached a question which I think will certainly interest all parties. Question 13 from Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed which is also addressed to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi. Please proceed Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Sorry Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Sort of anu mixed up.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

I give Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi tomorrow to answer this question.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

(Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua chuckles softly). So, thank you. The questions have already been answered and the time that we have allocated for, what is it called, hearing the answers from the respective Ministers to the oral questions that have been submitted by Your Honourable Members and insya Allah, other questions that could not be answered will be answered, what is it called, in writing.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi appears to be ready.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola apologises because tomorrow there is a Convocation Ceremony, so kaola seeks permission, if permitted, to answer this morning as well.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Thank you to Yang Berhormat Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed regarding the question of a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem. For Yang Berhormat's information, the acceptance of electric vehicles, EV in Negara Brunei Darussalam is now showing an increasing trend.

In 2025, EVs comprised only 0.7 per cent, that is only 124 units, of the total latest vehicle registrations.

However, from January to June 2026, EV registrations increased to 2.8 per cent. In line with that development, the Ministry realises that the development of charging infrastructure needs to be planned and expanded in stages so that it can meet users' needs at present and in the future.

For our shared information, as of 23 July 2026 there are 22 charging facility locations with 40 charging points throughout the country. This development at present is driven mainly by private sector investment based on market demand and the government welcomes the continued involvement of the private sector in expanding that network.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. For long-term planning, the government through the Electric Vehicle Working Group co-chaired by the ministry at the Prime Minister's Office namely the Department of Energy, Upstream and Downstream and the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications and involving the Brunei Climate Change Office and other relevant agencies, is examining a more comprehensive and phased approach to the development of the national EV ecosystem.

Among these is to see that the development of charging infrastructure will be aligned with the capability and needs of the national energy system.

This means it is linked to the capability and needs of the national energy system. This is important because increased EV usage not only requires more charging points but also requires planning in terms of electricity supply capacity, location and time of demand.

At present home charging still remains the main method for EV owners. Therefore, the development of the public charging network plan will only function as a complement for users who have needs for longer journeys.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Overall, the Ministry's planning approach is to ensure that we have policies that will align with the growth of EV usage, user demand and also private sector participation and also business models as well as the capability of the country's energy infrastructure. Kaola here only emphasize that the most important thing is business capital as well as the capability of the country's energy infrastructure.

In the long term, the government will also ensure that whatever EV requirements there are will be planned in a fully integrated manner by the committee that kaola mentioned earlier.

That is all that can be conveyed and thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Your Honourable Members. As I have stated that the time for us which has been set to answer questions submitted orally, we now move to the next business, but before that I think it is appropriate for us to stop and rest for a while for fifteen minutes. Before we resume this meeting to consider the next matters.

(The Legislative Council adjourns briefly)

(The Legislative Council resumes sitting)

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. The Legislative Council resumes sitting and now we move to the next meeting business.

Yang Mulia Pemangku Timbalan Jurutulis

Ministerial Statement from Yang Berhormat Menteri Penyelaras bagi Dasar-Dasar Ekonomi dan Menteri Ekonomi, Perdagangan dan Industri.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Your Honourable Members. I have granted permission for Yang Berhormat Menteri Penyelaras bagi Dasar-Dasar Ekonomi dan Menteri Ekonomi, Perdagangan dan Industri to make a Ministerial Statement titled Empowering the Tourism Industry as a Catalyst for National Economic Diversification and subsequently Making Successful the Visit Brunei Year initiative, Visit Brunei Year 2027 and I now invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Penyelaras bagi Dasar-Dasar Ekonomi dan Menteri Ekonomi, Perdagangan dan Industri.

Yang Berhormat Menteri Penyelaras bagi Dasar-Dasar Ekonomi dan Menteri Ekonomi, Perdagangan dan Industri

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful (prayer recited).

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy and blessings, and greetings.

First of all, kaola would like to record appreciation to Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for the permission and opportunity to deliver a Ministerial Statement entitled Empowering the Tourism Industry as a Catalyst for the Country's Economic Diversification and subsequently Making the Visit Brunei Year 2027 Initiative a Success.

I would also like to uphold the titah of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam that the journey towards Wawasan Brunei 2035 requires the cooperation of all parties, the implementation of effective strategies, as well as the country’s ability to adapt to global pressures and uncertainties.

In that context, the tourism sector has clear strategic value. It is not merely a component of economic generation but is also a catalyst that links various value-added activities including accommodation, transportation, food and beverages, agriculture, fisheries, creative industries, handicrafts, trade and digital services.

Every visitor who comes to this country has the potential to generate a multiplier economic effect that contributes to the spillover of other economic activities that can be enjoyed by local traders, communities and the people inclusively.

In this regard, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry continues to focus on tourism development in line with the Brunei Darussalam's Economic Blueprint and the Tourism Industry Roadmap of Negara Brunei Darussalam 2024 to 2035.

Our direction is not merely to pursue the number of arrivals, the more strategic goal is to develop high-value and high-return tourism, with visitors staying longer, spending more, using more local products and services, and subsequently ensuring that the economic value remains and circulates within the country.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. Alhamdulillah, current developments show encouraging momentum.

As of June this year, nearly 400,000 tourist arrivals have been recorded by air, sea and land, which is an increase of 7.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2025. Arrivals by sea have increased by 69 per cent, reflecting the growing potential in the cruise tourism segment.

So far, the number of cruise ship arrivals is expected to increase from 19 ships with nearly 30,000 visitors in 2025 to around 34 ships carrying nearly 65,000 visitors. Of that number, eight are luxury cruise ships, thus reflecting the confidence of international operators in the appeal of Negara Brunei Darussalam as a quality cruise destination while also opening opportunities for the transportation services industry, tour guides, food and beverages, arts and craft practitioners, souvenirs, as well as commercial development especially in the Pekan Muara and Serasa areas.

However, this momentum needs to be translated into higher economic value. Visitors may arrive, but if they only stop briefly, have difficulty finding or booking activities, do not have convenient payment options and do not know what else can be done in this country, those economic opportunities will be missed.

Therefore, the policy focus begins from efforts to bring visitors in to ensuring that the entire visitor journey from before arrival until they leave the country is easy, organised, quality-driven and generates returns to the local economy.

This means that the entire visitor journey needs to be seen as one interconnected chain of how they learn about Brunei, how they compare and book packages, how their experience is at the entry point, how they move within this country, how they pay, how they are treated and finally what experiences encourage them to stay longer, spend more and promote Brunei to others.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.

The Visit Brunei Year 2027 initiative is seen as one of the main drivers of that change. This initiative is highly significant and timely because the year 2027 will witness two complementary national events, namely the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the Reign of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam in conjunction with 60 years on the throne and Visit Brunei Year 2027.

Visit Brunei Year 2027 is not merely a promotional campaign. It is a national platform to highlight Negara Brunei Darussalam as a unique, peaceful, quality destination rich in nature, culture, Islamic heritage and the values of Melayu Islam Beraja.

At the same time, it must be utilised as a catalyst to increase investment, strengthen local enterprises, create quality jobs and accelerate economic diversification.

The Ministry has set a target of around 1,000,000 tourists with projected tourism revenue of around 630,000,000 by 2027.

However, success will not be assessed through these two figures or KPIs alone. Measurement must consider the average length of stay, spending per visitor, occupancy rate of tourist accommodation premises, income of local operators, use of local products, employment opportunities created and the extent to which economic benefits reach communities throughout the country.

To achieve this goal, the whole of government and whole of nation approach is not merely an expression. It must become a working method and implementation capital. Whole of government means every ministry and agency understands its respective role in the visitor journey and resolves issues together. Whole of nation means that the private sector, financial institutions, telecommunications companies, transport operators, local enterprises, grassroots leaders and the community also take ownership of the opportunities created.

Issues such as air and sea connectivity, smooth processes at entry points, domestic transportation, public facilities and cleanliness, coordination of the e-event calendar, cashless payments, availability of products that can be booked digitally, service standards and the capability of local operators are cross-ministry and cross-sector matters. If one part of this chain is weak, the entire visitor experience is also affected.

Therefore, the Steering Committee for Visit Brunei Year 2027 co-chaired by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, myself as Menteri Penyelaras bagi Dasar-Dasar Ekonomi dan Menteri Ekonomi, Perdagangan dan Industri and Yang Berhormat Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan with membership from the public and private sectors functions not only as an event coordination platform but as an integrated implementation mechanism and also a commitment of various parties to address problems at every level. Close coordination with the Supreme Committee for the Diamond Jubilee Celebration is also important to unify efforts in ensuring that national events, industry capacity and promotional initiatives complement one another rather than move separately.

As an initial step in introducing and promoting this campaign, the Visit Brunei Year 2027 Pre-Launch Ceremony was successfully held on 20 June 2026 at Jerudong Park Garden. The pre-launch ceremony was graced by the presence of Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda 'Abdul Mateen Ibni Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, which was an honour reflecting strong support while injecting significant impact into the national tourism agenda.

At that ceremony, the launch of the official logo as well as the mascots Awang and Dayang marked the starting point for a broad and comprehensive promotion strategy at both the domestic and international levels.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.

Visitors today search, compare, book and pay through digital channels. Therefore, Brunei products need to be on the platforms used by the market, not merely waiting for customers to find us.

Tourism service providers, tourism service provider and travel booking agents need to seize the opportunities from online travel agencies or OTS as well as platforms such as Explore Brunei or Program Nahkoda.

Program Nahkoda has gathered more than 600 tourism products and services in this country. However, this platform will only deliver results when products are constantly updated, have attractive descriptions and visuals, clear pricing and availability, can be easily booked and are supported by quick responses to customers.

Travel agents should not merely repeat the same packages or depend entirely on government promotion. They also need to invest in digital marketing, build cooperation with OTS, use customer data and produce more creative and competitive inbound packages. This includes combining nature, culture, adventure, gastronomy, Islamic heritage, shopping, sports, events and community experiences in multi-day itineraries.

For example, cruise visitors who usually have limited time can be given structured and easily purchasable itineraries before arriving in this country.

Transit visitors can in turn be offered half-day, one-night or two-night packages. Family visitors, nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, educational tourists and visitors engaged in bird watching activities need to have products suited to their respective interests. More quality options will provide more reasons for visitors to stay and spend in this country.

In this matter, Explore Brunei and Program Nakhoda have functioned as digital gateways to local products. Meanwhile, OTS becomes a channel to expand reach into international markets.

The Ministry and related agencies can help in terms of facilitation, training and joint promotion. However, the industry itself needs to take commercial responsibility to improve content, manage inventory and turn interest into sales.

This effort is further strengthened with the Tourism Information Management System or TIMS, which is a digital dashboard that integrates data from the E-Arrival Card and accommodation data to provide a more accurate picture of visitor profiles, spending patterns and arrivals as well as market demand coming into this country.

At present, 60 accommodation premises have used this platform. Data coverage and quality will continue to be improved so that decisions regarding promotion, product development, transportation capacity, manpower and investment are made based on evidence.

International promotion will continue to be carried out more aggressively, in a targeted and data-based manner through strengthening existing key markets in Asia, the Middle East, the United Kingdom and Australia, as well as actively exploring new and high-potential markets in Europe and also in America. This effort is supported through the placement of marketing representatives in Japan, China and Korea as well as Taipei.

Participation in 24 expos and roadshows, cooperation with 10 Key Opinion Leaders and high-profile social media influencers, including conducting familiarisation visits for international travel agents to personally experience the tourism packages offered in this country.

Six digital campaigns through platforms such as Skyscanner, Rome2Rio, Klook, Trip.com, CTrip and Agoda as well as 10 media campaigns involving international media such as CNN, Euronews and Al Jazeera. All these activities are assessed based on the effectiveness of the selected platforms in generating more bookings and tourist arrivals to Negara Brunei Darussalam, not merely increasing the country’s profile in the eyes of the world.

In addition to enhancing destination promotion efforts, the government is also actively working to attract more international-standard events to be organised in Negara Brunei Darussalam throughout 2027. Among those identified are arts and cultural events, sports championships, recreational activities, festivals as well as the organisation of international meetings, conferences and conventions.

The organisation of these events not only enhances Brunei’s profile on the international stage, but is also expected to contribute to increased visitor arrivals, lengthen their period of stay and provide spillover economic benefits to the tourism sector and local operators.

Strategic cooperation with the private sector is also strengthened through the appointment of Official Airline Partners, Official Global Platform Partners, Official Payment Partners, Official Telco Partners, Official Transit Hotel Partners and Official Merchandise Partners.

This cooperation has the potential to expand promotional reach, improve cashless payment facilities, encourage transit packages and lengthen stays as well as open branding opportunities and commercial value to local operators.

In this regard, the provision of cashless payment methods is no longer an additional convenience, but part of destination competitiveness access. When visitors can pay quickly and securely, their tendency to purchase food, handicrafts, souvenirs and services also increases.

Conversely, if vendors only accept cash, transactions may not occur and opportunities will be lost. As an initial development, three operators at Gadong Night Market have begun accepting cashless payments through Visa and MasterCard methods and payment through QR Code is also increasingly gaining response among vendors in Pekan Muara.

This is a positive development, because visitors do not necessarily carry large amounts of local cash.

Therefore, kaola calls on more vendors, particularly at visitor focal locations, night markets, food centres, shopping areas and community locations to accept digital payment methods. Financial institutions, payment providers and related agencies, meanwhile, need to continue efforts to expand the trader registration process, provide brief specialised training, ease costs and equipment and ensure that payment acceptance signs are clearly displayed.

In addition, the encouragement of quality investment is also important to expand capacity and product options. One example is the development by Borneo Eco-Resort Sdn. Bhd. together with international hotel partners with an estimated investment value of nearly BND6.8 million. This ecotourism and nature-based resort project is scheduled to operate in August 2027 and has the potential to create around 80 direct jobs with a target of 90 per cent local workforce in the near future.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. The visitor experience is not determined only by tour guides or hotel workers, rather it begins from the moment visitors arrive and interact with officers at entry points, transport operators, taxi drivers, hotel staff and attraction sites, restaurant workers, salespersons, security guards, event personnel, night market vendors and society in general.

In this regard, a national friendliness campaign will be launched to foster a culture of hospitality, professionalism and service excellence. Every frontliner is the face of Negara Brunei Darussalam. A smile and good greeting, accurate information, quick assistance, cleanliness, courtesy and efficiency in solving problems will determine whether visitors feel welcomed.

A good experience will be shared, and a bad experience will also be shared, and the effects can spread quickly through social media.

Therefore, the friendliness campaign will be expanded beyond the tourism industry to the entire service ecosystem. Government agencies, the private sector, industry associations and educational institutions are urged to attend the courses that will later be provided by the Tourism Development Department and need to align basic modules of hospitality, communication and destination awareness for frontliners.

Feedback mechanisms, recognition for excellent service and corrective action on complaints will be strengthened.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. The Ministry through the Tourism Development Department also aspires to ensure that tourism is truly inclusive. This means that the results from increased visitors are not concentrated only on some companies or locations, but flow to village youths, micro entrepreneurs, youths, women, single mothers, arts practitioners, farmers, fishermen, cooks, handicraft operators and local service providers.

In this matter, kaola welcomes the role of Your Honourable Members as grassroots leaders, as well as non-governmental organisations, to encourage communities in their respective areas to identify available opportunities that can be developed.

Mukim Consultative Councils and Village Consultative Councils can mobilise activities based on local strengths including traditional food, arts and culture, village history, the environment, handicrafts, sports and community life experiences.

As a follow-up step, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry through the Tourism Development Department in close cooperation with the Ministry of Home Affairs will organise a Community-Based Tourism workshop this September to strengthen the capabilities of communities, particularly village residents, in identifying and developing economic opportunities through community-based tourism activities.

In that regard, I call on Your Honourable Members as leaders to encourage your respective village residents to take part, not only in this workshop, but also in carrying out activities to make Visit Brunei Year a success.

Further, to make use of the existing opportunities for village residents. When communities receive visitors and sell their own products or experiences, the money spent by visitors can circulate within the community. That income can be used by families and operators to strengthen local economic and social activities.

This is what is meant by regenerative tourism, tourism that opens space for participation, generates income and enhances the capability of local communities. Programs such as Kenali Negara Kitani also need to be utilised to encourage citizens and residents to holiday and spend within the country.

Domestic tourism helps local operators, builds experience and resilience before receiving greater international demand while also ensuring that tourism activities continue throughout the year and do not depend only on certain seasons.

In other words, whole of government provides coordination, facilitation and policy solutions, the private sector turns opportunities into products and sales. Financial and technology institutions provide transaction facilities and access digital.

Meanwhile, whole of nation ensures that the people and communities become active participants in gaining benefits from the tourism industry.

Whatever challenges are faced in the effort to make this effort a success should not depend only on the government. Some challenges can also be resolved by the private sector itself through its own initiative.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.

Visit Brunei Year 2027 must leave a lasting legacy. The infrastructure of skills, digital platforms, service standards and community products, industry cooperation and coordination mechanisms developed must continue to have an impact after 2027.

Thus, this initiative will continue to be a turning point for the tourism sector as a whole and not merely a one-year campaign.

Through the whole of government and whole of nation approach that combines the commitment of the government sector, private sector, communities and the whole people, the Ministry is confident that the tourism sector can grow as a more inclusive, resilient and competitive economic catalyst.

With the continued support of all parties and by Allah’s permission, with the pleasure of Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala, insya Allah, Negara Brunei Darussalam will continue to be strengthened as a quality destination industry and a prosperous nation at the international and regional levels.

That is all, and with Allah’s guidance and direction, peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy and blessings. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Your Honourable Members, we express our thanks to Yang Berhormat Menteri Penyelaras bagi Dasar-Dasar Ekonomi dan Menteri Ekonomi, Perdagangan dan Industri who has made a statement in relation to the tourism industry and further regarding the Visit Brunei Year 2027 initiative.

Now, we move on to the next matter.

Yang Mulia Pemangku Timbalan Jurutulis

Motion No. 6/2026, Motion of Resolution Regarding the Order Under Article 83(3) of the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam which will be proposed by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Sufian bin Haji Sabtu, Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Sekuriti dan Undang-Undang).

Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Sekuriti dan Undang-Undang)

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.

I wish to propose that the Legislative Council make a resolution pursuant to Article 83(7) of the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam to approve every Order made under Article 83(3) of the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam that has been laid before the Council, effective from the dates the Orders were made.

This matter refers to one Order contained in Legislative Council Paper No. 6/2026. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Your Honourable Members, is there an Honourable Member who would like to second the Motion that has been put forward by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Sekuriti dan Undang-Undang)?

Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Tenaga, Huluan dan Hiliran)

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.

I support the Motion proposed. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Thank you Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Tenaga, Huluan dan Hiliran).

Your Honourable Members. This Motion of Resolution has received full support from Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri (Tenaga, Huluan dan Hiliran). Next, this Motion can now be voted on, since this Motion is usually not debated, it is best that we put this Motion to a vote. Your Honourable Members who agree, please raise your hands.

(The agreeing Your Honourable Members raise their hands)

It appears that all Honourable Members agree. Therefore, this Motion of Resolution is approved.

(Gavel struck)

Yang Mulia Pemangku Timbalan Jurutulis

The Motion of Resolution Regarding the Order Under Article 83(3) of the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam is approved.

Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua

Your Honourable Members. Alhamdulillah, I think it is sufficient for us to sit for this morning, and I propose that this meeting be adjourned.

Insya Allah, we will reconvene this afternoon, as usual starting from 2.30 in the afternoon, that is all. Wabillahi taufik walhidayah wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi ta'ala wabarakatuh.

(The Legislative Council was adjourned)