DAY 2 AFTERNOON
25TH FEB 2022 - AFTERNOON
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YANG DI-PERTUA
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib, PSNB., SLJ., PHBS., PJK., PKL., Yang Di-Pertua Majlis Mesyuarat Negara, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
OFFICIAL MEMBERS DUE TO POSITION (PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTERS)
Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertua Negara Brunei Darussalam, Perdana Menteri, Menteri Pertahanan, Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi dan Menteri Hal Ehwal Luar Negeri, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, DKMB., DPKT., King Abdul Aziz Ribbon, First Class (Saudi Arabia), The Order of the Renaissance (First Degree) (Jordan), Grand Cross of Crown Order - G.K.K. (Netherlands), Medal of Honour (Lao), DSO (Singapore), Order of Lakandula with the Rank of Grand Cross (Philippines), The Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, Second Class (Ukraine), DSO (Military) (Singapore), PHBS., Menteri Kanan di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Di-Raja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa bin Pehin Datu Perdana Manteri Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Ibrahim, DK., SPMB., DSNB., PHBS., PBLI., PJK., PKL., Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, PSNB., DSLJ., SMB., PHBS., PIKB., PKL., Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, PSSUB., DPMB., PHBS., PBIL., PJk., PKL., Menteri Hal Ehwal Ugama, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, PSNB., DPMB., PJK., PIKB., PKL., Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, DPKT., SMB., PHBS., Menteri Pertahanan II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, PSNB., DPMB., Menteri Kesihatan, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, PSNB., SPMB., PJK., PKL., Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd. Amin Liew bin Abdullah, PSNB., SPMB., Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd. Yusof, PSNB., SPMB., PJK., PIKB., PKL., Menteri Hal Ehwal Luar Negeri II, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Present virtually)
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Ir. Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, PSNB., SPMB., PIKB., PKL., Menteri Pembangunan, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Present virtually)
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein, PSNB., DPMB., PJK., Menteri Tenaga, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, PSNB., DPMB., PJK., Menteri Pendidikan, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof, PSNB., SMB., PIKB., Menteri Pengangkutan dan Infokomunikasi, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Present virtually)
Yang Berhormat Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, DPKT., SMB., Menteri Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
APPOINTED MEMBERS TITLED INDIVIDUALS
Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal, PSSUB., DSNB., PHBS., PBLI., PKL.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu, DPKT., DPMB., SNB., PBLI., PJK., PKLP. (Present virtually)
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim, DPMB., SNB., PJK., PKL.
APPOINTED MEMBERS ACHIEVERS
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Umarali bin Esung, PSB., PIKB., PKL.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad, SMB.
Yang Berhormat Awang Ong Tiong Oh.
Yang Berhormat Fdr. Ar. Dayang Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman, PSB., PIKB.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadi, PSB.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Khairunnisa binti Awang Haji Ash'ari, PIKB.
Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad, PIKB.
REPRESENTING DISTRICTS
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon, PSB., PJK., PIKB., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Berakas 'B’, Zon 1 - Daerah Brunei dan Muara. (Present virtually)
Yang Berhormat Awang Naim bin Haji Kamis, PSB., PJK., PIKB., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Kota Batu, Zon 3 - Daerah Brunei dan Muara. (Present virtually)
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin, PIKB., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Gadong 'A’, Zon 4 - Daerah Brunei dan Muara.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari, Ketua Kampung Limau Manis, Zon 5 - Daerah Brunei dan Muara.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman, PSB., PIKB., PKL., Ketua Kampung Masjid Lama, Pekan Muara, Sabun dan Pelumpang, Zon 2 - Daerah Brunei dan Muara.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, PJK., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Liang, Zon 1 - Daerah Belait.
Yang Berhormat Awang Hanapi bin Mohd. Siput, PIKB., Ketua Kampung Labi I, Zon 2 - Daerah Belait.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Wahab bin Apong, SUB., PJK., PIKB., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Tanjong Maya, Zon 1 - Daerah Tutong.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit, PIKB., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Telisai, Zon 2 - Daerah Tutong.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Emran bin Haji Subtu, SMB., PSB., PIKB., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Bokok, Kelima-lima Mukim Daerah Temburong.
ALSO PRESENT
Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Jaya Dato Paduka Awang Haji Judin Haji Asar, DPMB., SLJ., POAS., PHBS., PBIL., PJK., PKL., Jurutulis Majlis Mesyuarat Negara, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Mulia Dayang Rose Aminah binti Haji Ismail, PSB., PIKB., Timbalan Jurutulis Majlis Mesyuarat Negara, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
(The meeting commenced at 2:30 PM)
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
The First Meeting of the Eighteenth Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara convened on the second day, the 24th of Rajab 1443 corresponding to the 25th of February 2022, commencing with a Doa Selamat.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, for it is by His grace and mercy that we are gathered here this evening to convene in the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara. Blessing and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad, his family, his companions, and his followers until the end of time.
Your Honourable Members. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, yesterday morning saw the successful conclusion of the Official Opening of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam. This assembly wishes to express its highest appreciation and reverence for His Majesty’s gracious presence and His Majesty’s address. Among other things, His Majesty highlighted the government's efforts and initiatives in caring for the welfare and prosperity of the people and residents of this country, such as the implementation of the New Pension Scheme in 2023, Foreign Direct Investments which have opened up employment opportunities and increased national income, and efforts to enhance self-sufficiency in the agricultural, agrifood, fishery, and livestock sectors.
The concern of the Government under Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam was also evident in the form of assistance provided to individuals and sectors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
I believe Your Honourable Members will be able to provide comprehensive reviews and opinions, and thoroughly examine the grace of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam's address delivered during the Official Opening of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara, in discussing the Motions Given Notice in Agenda Item V.
I have been informed that several Members of the Legislative Council will also attend this afternoon's meeting online or virtually due to their respective circumstances. Your Honourable Members are certainly aware and feel that we still have several matters that need to be resolved as soon as possible. So, I think we move on to the other matters.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
Item IV, Papers presented on the table. Paper No. 1 Year 2022 by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Your Honourable Chair and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola respectfully request permission from Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua to present on the table Paper No. 1 Year 2022, which is the List of Emergency Orders approved in the year 2021 according to Clause 83 of the Constitution of Negara Brunei Darussalam. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
Paper No. 2 Year 2022 to be presented by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Your Honourable Chair and Your Honourable Members, Kaola respectfully request permission from Your Honourable Chair to present on the table Paper No. 2, Year 2022 which is the Estimated Revenue and Expenditure of the State for the Financial Year 2022/2023. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. Earlier, Yang Berhormat Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II had presented the List of Expenditures Other than from Emergency Orders approved in the Year 2021 according to Clause 83 of the Constitution of Negara Brunei Darussalam. Meanwhile, Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II had presented the Estimated Revenue and Expenditure of the State for the Financial Year 2022/2023.
Therefore, I give permission to the concerned Your Honourable Members to bring and present the aforementioned papers.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
Item V. Motions That Have Been Given Notice will be proposed by Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri.
Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace and blessings be upon our great leader Muhammad bin Abdullah, may Allah shower mercy upon his family and followers who are loyal and steadfast until the end of time. We are grateful to our one and only Allah for by His grace and will alone, we are gathered here on this Session of the Legislative Council of Negara Brunei Darussalam this year.
Your Honourable Chair, the Official Opening Ceremony of the Legislative Council Session this year was royally and successfully conducted yesterday by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Therefore, in this august chamber, I am pleased to propose a Motion that reads:
"This council agrees to extend the highest level of gratitude to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for his gracious visit and royal decree on the occasion of the Official Opening of the First Session of the Eighth Legislative Council Season on Thursday, 23rd of Rejab 1443 Hijrah corresponding with 24th of February 2022".
Your Honourable Chair and Your Honourable Members.
As we witnessed yesterday, the speech by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam was insightful and contains many guidelines for us to follow and refer to. It clearly reflects his wisdom, foresight, and deep concern for the welfare and well-being of his people and residents in this country.
As we well know, one of the main agendas of this conference each year is to approve the State Budget in line with the decree of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia with each ministry and department, especially the supervising officers, being responsible to ensure all expenditures are executed prudently and in accordance with regulations.
Your Honourable Chair. One matter that continues to receive attention from the Government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia is the guarantee of social security, especially during retirement. In this context, a study related to the Employees' Trust Fund Scheme has been completed by the Ministry of Finance and Economy and, God willing, will begin implementation in 2023. At the same time, efforts to promote personal financial management programs and savings culture should be continued.
In the pursuit of achieving the Brunei Vision 2035 objectives, various initiatives and projects have been and are being actively implemented by the government. Its success requires solid support and commitment from all parties including the public, private sectors, and the public. It also requires a Whole of Government and Whole of Nation approach so that all projects, policies, and reforms implemented meet the needs of all parties. One strategy towards achieving this vision is by diversifying the country's economy through different means. The activities of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects that were implemented a few years ago have begun to show results and activities will continue to expand.
In accordance with the decree of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, companies and local job seekers, especially school leavers, are called upon to seize employment and business opportunities generated from these projects as best as possible.
Your Honourable Chair and Your Honourable Members.
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about various new challenges and has changed the way we interact, work, do business, study, and so on. Nevertheless, one of the results obtained from it is an acceleration of digital transformation that allows us to continue these activities under new norms.
In assisting affected parties, various initiatives and aids have been extended by both the government and private sectors. These include assistance to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, financial assistance for private sector workers, and provision of educational equipment such as computers for students.
In this connection, fast and reliable internet service is important to ensure no one is left behind. We have also seen how the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected food supplies around the world, including our own country.
Food security issue is one of the concerns that need to be continually given attention and priority because it is a basic necessity for survival. Efforts to increase food production and output especially in the agriculture, aquaculture, fishing, and livestock sectors towards achieving self-efficiency are being implemented and are expected to yield the desired results.
Your Honourable Chair. Before I conclude my speech, I am pleased to call upon all citizens and residents, especially the public service and the private sector, to multiply their efforts in supporting the leadership and pure intentions of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam in achieving Brunei Vision 2035 objectives. Let us pray to God Almighty that Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, along with his royal family and all the citizens and residents of Negara Brunei Darussalam, remain in a state of health, peace and prosperity, and under the mercy and protection of Allah Almighty.
Thank you, With trust in Allah, and peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
We have heard the statement from Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Before we open this matter for discussion, I ask if there is a Your Honourable Member who would like to support the Motion that was announced a moment ago.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings. Your Honourable Chair and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola fully supports the Motion that has been presented by Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. Earlier, Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, had presented a Motion to wholly offer our highest gratitude to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for His attendance at the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara on Thursday, 24 February 2022.
The Statement of the Motion was fully supported by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri. The Motion was clearly presented by Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri. I believe it is appropriate now for this Motion to be opened for debate by Your Honourable Members. Several members wish to participate in debating this Motion. I would like to take this opportunity to express the hope that we can resolve this matter as quickly as possible. Thus, let the statements stand and not take up too much time.
Therefore, I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari to begin this discussion.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari
Thank You, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. الشكر لله وحده والصلاة والسلام
على رسول الله وعلى آله وصحبه ومن والاه
أما بعد يأتي ترتيب المباحثة والمقادة
وتتابعها إلى أن تكون أكثر فائدة ونفعا
وتمامه عند تحقق التنفيذ والإنجاز
فإنه بحسن تتبع جدول الأعمال تتبين
النتائج إن شاء الله تعالى أن يحفظنا
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In this honorable assembly, with respect and utmost deference offering our highest gratitude to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for His attendance and granting His royal address in conjunction with the official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Session of Majlis Mesyuarat Negara 2022. From His many significant royal addresses that have greatly uplifted our spirits, kaola draws upon some of His Majesty’s directives in the Motion of Gratitude in this legislative session.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. First, kaola cites a directive:
“...Majlis Mesyuarat Negara, as I have decreed, serves as a strategic forum to debate matters beneficial for the people and the nation....”
From this excerpt, kaola proposes that Brunei Darussalam undertakes the empowerment of youth economic development through skills training and job guarantees. One method is self-employment through business startups, hence providing youth with initial business capital (start-up business) grants ranging from $30,000.00 to $50,000.00. Financial microfacilities with guaranteed skills obtained through training at centers such as IBTE, Youth Development Centre, etc. Thus, empowering youth as invaluable national assets is a step towards the nation’s future; they cannot depreciate or diminish in value. If assets depreciate or diminish, they are no longer considered assets.
Kaola also wants to discuss issues concerning business ownership by foreigners raised during a meeting with the Ministry of Finance and Economy in 2021, which Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II agreed was a national issue. The question is how certain parties plan to address this issue and when it will be implemented, and when the implementation targets should be achieved.
Next, kaola cites a directive:
"...With the entry of Foreign Direct Investments into the country, there will undoubtedly be job and business opportunities for locals and local companies. All these significantly benefit the country, including increased revenue..."
Kaola fully supports the above royal directive for the country to welcome foreign investments that bring benefits and advantages. Through FDI, we need to empower locally established and operated Bruneian businesses.
Kaola proposes that the registration of private limited companies not reaching the Corporate Income Tax Act be reviewed. Thus, kaola suggests prioritizing the socio-economy of the citizens by reviewing reforms for private limited companies not meeting the Corporate Income Tax Act criteria to prevent being overtaken by foreigners, leaving our people sidelined.
Furthermore, kaola cites a directive:
"...Meanwhile, efforts to enhance self-sufficiency in agriculture, agribusiness, fisheries, and livestock are being activated. I take note that ministries concerned are working to increase outputs from the agricultural and fisheries sectors. Especially local rice production has started showing results with increased rice milling capacity productivity. اَلْحَمْدُ لِلّٰهِ Upon completion of this project, it will assist farmers in focusing on their respective rice cultivation..." .
Taking this opportunity, the establishment of Brunei Farmers' Association (PPPB) is also an initiative to empower agribusiness. Hence, a proposal is made to facilitate financial loan facilities for initial capital (start-up business) specifically for agribusiness entrepreneurs, as the financial sector considers agribusiness a high-risk area. Therefore, advancing in this field significantly requires support from existing financial agencies.
Another directive reads,
"Finally, I hope that Your Honourable Members are ready to offer their thoughts and opinions without hesitation and purely for the good of all. As for the nation, it always awaits valuable ideas from Your Honourable Members."
As we uphold the hope of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam as mentioned above, let us not only follow the 'pattern of the keladi leaf, but take the pattern of the rice stalk which bends full of grains'. Create ‘footprint’ of Brunei. Financial agency leaders must have a ‘Brunei footprint’ truly understanding the needs of the people towards empowering the nation's economy.
We should cooperate, not oppose, create solutions guided by the royal addresses, implement succession planning in GLC companies so that Bruneians have broader opportunities for employment.
Another directive:
"...I want, this opportunity to be used to tidy up whatever is untidy and to improve whatever still needs improvement. This is the 'motto' of this conference. I wish you a productive session...".
Drawing upon the directive above, kaola suggests that the citizens of Brunei Darussalam be awarded for contributing to the economy while foreign nationals contributing economically be granted Permanent Resident status.
Additionally, kaola takes this opportunity to propose that Brunei Darussalam have access to direct payment facilities for youth interested in becoming YouTubers.
In our country, it is known that many foreign YouTubers benefit from this activity. The market opportunity is vast because the digital world knows no boundaries.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Kaola wishes to take blessings on the occasion of National Day celebration month, referencing key points from the Independence Proclamation Address on 1 January 1984 and taking several significant matters from that declaration 38 years ago. Although this address is decades old, it will not be outdated as it reads:
"...and that Brunei Darussalam has never been a colony but had special treaty relations with the United Kingdom since 1847 and later in 1888, it was agreed that foreign relations became the responsibility of the Government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland...".
This declaration shows that our early leadership thought of the welfare and interests of the people and future generations of the nation and with the wisdom of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam continued these welfare efforts.
And the next directive reads:
"...and that a constitution called the Brunei State Constitution 1959, was proclaimed by the Sultan before me, namely His Majesty Sultan Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam, the 28th Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of the State of Brunei Darussalam and according to which the government of this country was organized and it is to be the highest law for the government of this country..."
The 1959 Constitution is the greatest gift to the nation and state of Brunei Darussalam that we should always examine and use as a guide in the effort to advance the country and nation.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Before retiring, kaola once again offer my highest gratitude for the grant of the decree by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam by expressing salutation and prayer to Allah the Almighty may His Majesty and His Majesty's family and the people of the State of Brunei Darussalam always be under the mercy of Allah that brings happiness to my soul, my mouth, and my body.
That's all, Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Now I invite Yang Berhormat Minister of Development. I heard that Yang Berhormat will make his statement virtually.
Yang Berhormat Minister of Development
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, and prayers and peace be upon our master Muhammad and upon all his family and companions.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members blessed by Allah. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua for giving kaola the opportunity to express my gratitude even though I cannot be physically present at this time.
Firstly, kaola respectfully and humbly welcomes the Motion proposed by Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister responsible at the Prime Minister's Department in presenting the highest gratitude to the Council His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty’s attendance and providing a decree during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Session of the Eighteen Legislative Council Session on Thursday, 23 Rejab 1443 equivalent to 24 February 2022.
His Majesty's decree explicitly reminded us all that preparations towards achieving Brunei Vision 2035, which is only about 13 years away, need to be meticulously planned and started early to ensure that all plans can be executed orderly and run smoothly.
The provision and implementation of infrastructure in this country are the responsibility of the Ministry of Development which has already been implemented under planned projects in the National Development Plan. This proves that the Government under His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's rule remains committed to infrastructure development in this country. It has had a significant impact not only in improving the lives of the citizens and residents of this country but also as a catalyst for economic growth, attracting foreign investors to invest in this country.
All this is to ensure that the prosperity and welfare of the people and country are always sustained and ensured. The preparation of a roadmap for projects to be included in the 12th National Development Plan as mentioned in His Majesty's decree is a Whole Of Nation Approach method in ensuring Brunei Vision 2035 is achieved.
The Ministry of Development will always be ready to support the strategic implementation of each ministry and department concerned in providing infrastructure development and always ensure that it is carried out according to priority, needs, and close monitoring according to the schedule set.
In addition, the Ministry of Development highly values His Majesty's emphasis on the importance of the country's financial expenditures to be made prudently and disciplined by adhering to the existing financial regulations and not misusing the power to spend recklessly and simultaneously following priorities, needs, not wasteful and carried out orderly.
His Majesty's decree will always be a guide and reminder for the Ministry of Development and its departments in carrying out any projects under this ministry. God willing, the Ministry of Development will continue striving to ensure that the allocations provided follow the ministry's priorities and are in line with the Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Development 2018-2023. The ministry will also always review and scrutinize any services that require improvements to meet the needs and expectations of the public. Essentially, in implementing these infrastructure development projects, not everything can be carried out as planned due to various obstacles and challenges that must be faced. However, through experience and lessons learned from projects that have been implemented, it will not prevent us from continuing any planned project implementations that can ensure the safety of the citizens and residents of this country.
Now is the time for us to update what is not yet neat and improve what needs to be improved as mentioned in His Majesty's decree yesterday. The Ministry of Development always has an open mind and welcomes any suggestions put forward by Your Honourable Members and also from the public.
Finally, kaola would like to once again present my highest gratitude to the Council His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty's grace.
Let us all pray together that all our planned and implemented efforts will always receive grace and assistance from Allah Almighty as well.
That’s all, Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad.
Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah and upon all his family and companions. Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members. I fully support the motion proposed by Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Department to offer our fullest Motion of Gratitude to the Council His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam who had attended the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Session from the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session and bestowed a decree on that day.
His Majesty's decree is filled with love for the people and residents of Brunei Darussalam, foresight, and authority and also prayed that His Majesty and the royal family always be under the mercy of Allah Almighty as well.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Let us all in this honorable hall express our gratitude to Allah Almighty for the blessings under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and His Majesty's government, the people of the State of Brunei Darussalam continue to enjoy care and a peaceful life despite the COVID-19 pandemic continues to test us with various challenges.
With prayers and our efforts, together we face these challenges as best as we can. Amen, among His Majesty's initiatives is regarding the Employees Trust Fund (TAP). We as a people must be grateful to have a king who cares for his people and offer the highest gratitude to the Council His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam because His Majesty wants to see its implementation orderly including with the Amendment of the Information Technology Systems Act and its granting.
According to Brunei Darussalam Key Indicators in 2020, there were a total of 98,450 active members in the Employees Trust Fund, with 60% from the private sector and 40% from the government sector. His Majesty raised the same issue about this Employees Trust Fund last year as it is a common question to ensure so many of its members are safeguarded for retirement. Our discussion about this TAP and SCP issue that was brought up in 2018, in the coming year we will see changes that are eagerly awaited by all.
Your Honourable Speaker and Your Honourable Members.
The issue of Food Security and self-sufficiency improvement in the agriculture, agrifood, fisheries, and livestock sectors also received special attention from His Majesty. I take note of efforts in the area of education regarding this matter such as the Agrotechnology program at Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) and Brunei Technical Education Institute (IBTE), even UNISSA I understand has a Faculty of Agriculture.
I believe these efforts can be further enhanced at an appropriate time for us to establish an Agrotechnology University. This will further support our food security while also supporting one of the priority sectors, food as mentioned in the newly launched Brunei Economic Blue Print. It could also support the Digital Economy Master Plan of the country in adapting the Internet Of Things (IOT) and Smart Farming.
With a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) amounting to $19.78 million, the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries sector needs special attention as a major contributor to the country's economy and it requires the embrace of academia and professionals that will emerge from this Agrotechnology University. New technologies and approaches such as Circular Food System, Degenerative Agriculture, Agroarcheology, more efficient storage, and logistic facilities. The use of drones in Agrotechnology, Smart Agriculture, and many more. This matter requires the support of academia and professionals. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is changing the world and we must apply it to our food security and the major sources we have in Brunei Darussalam.
Lastly, we do not want our forest ecosystem to be destroyed and the land changed to agricultural use that is not systematic and controlled, and food production affected by climate change will result in uncertain production. God willing, the establishment of this Agrotechnology University will be able to provide guidance to our food security.
Thank you, Your Honourable Speaker.
Your Honourable Speaker
I invited Your Honourable Dayang Siti Rozaimeryanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman.
Your Honourable Fdr. Ar. Dayang Siti Rozaimeryanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Greetings and peace from Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Your Honourable Speaker and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola fully support the Motion proposed by Your Honourable Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office to present a speech to express gratitude for the gracious presence of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam who deigned to attend the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Sixteenth Legislative Council Session and graciously delivered a royal address on Thursday, 23rd Rejab 1443 corresponding to 24th February 2022.
Before presenting the Motion, I humbly extend the highest congratulations for the success of His Majesty and the Government of His Majesty in chairing ASEAN 2021 brilliantly and extending support not only to the people and country but also to the entire ASEAN Community.
This support is greatly appreciated, admired, and invaluable in strengthening ASEAN consensus. With the utmost respect and reverence, on behalf of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council Brunei and the local private sector including MSMEs, I am greatly appreciative to His Majesty for His Majesty's support towards the private sector all this while. May His Majesty and the royal family always be under the protection and blessings of Allah and granted long life and health, God willing.
Your Honourable Speaker and Your Honourable Members.
Praise be to Allah for over the past five years, many advancements and positive developments have been seen in the efforts from the public sector, private sector, and continuous support from the community that has contributed and ensured the country's development in line with our Brunei Vision 2035.
Although we are still affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has not deterred the development planning of all parties to achieve a resilient national fiscal. This can be seen through the launch and proclamations of strategic plans, frameworks, and current policies by ministries in framing the planning for a better change for the country aimed at achieving the goals based on Brunei Vision 2035.
Kaola would like to refer to the decree of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam stating that the 11th National Development Plan will end in the Financial Year 2022-2023. This means that the 12th National Development Plan starting in April 2023 will have a sustainability roadmap that requires a Whole of Government approach for projects in the NPD-12 as an effort to ensure Brunei Vision 2035 is achieved.
It is clear that His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has given full trust and high hopes to all ministries to unite and collaborate in implementing projects under the National Development Plan to achieve optimal results for all parties with a Whole of Government Approach.
Your Honourable Speaker and Your Honourable Members
Kaola wishes to propose suggestions that I find crucial to be discussed and examined through the conference in this august house, regarding projects under the National Development Plan should have been implemented with Whole of Government and Whole of Nation Approach so that the country can achieve the National Vision 2035 smoothly and efficiently in line with the timetable of the Plan.
In this regard, kaola would like to refer to the decree of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of the New Year 2022 regarding government-owned buildings that are abandoned and no longer in use need to be examined holistically by the stakeholders so that the said assets can be utilized and at the same time to avoid waste. His Majesty said all ministries are encouraged to implement shared-facilities methods so that expenditure can be focused on achieving Brunei Vision 2035. This clearly shows that the government needs to work together by integrating or sharing their facilities and assets.
As of January 2021, there are 389 empty and abandoned buildings owned by the government. There are also lands that have been gazetted but have not seen any development even though they have been given for a long time. This is very sad because these assets and lands should have already been developed and could provide benefits and returns not only to the public but also to the government itself.
Kaola would like to suggest that these empty and abandoned assets be given special attention and re-examined for their purposes they were built, to avoid wasting such valuable assets. One step that can be done is for the 12th National Development Plan to utilize all these buildings (repurposing) and use them as shared facilities. This will help the government's expenditure in the 12th National Development Plan with existing infrastructures and services such as water, electricity, roads can use them to reduce expenditure from using vacant land that has not been developed and has no infrastructure and services.
These assets can be opened on a lease or PPP to parties that also have potential in the private sector. It also generates very good returns for the government and can benefit the stakeholders. The most important thing in responding to His Majesty's decree is that the projects should involve a Whole of Government Approach. A project involves several ministries and not just one ministry.
Your Honourable Speaker and Your Honourable Members
There are issues that I have raised in this esteemed Chamber which have produced thoughts or suggestions that have been considered by several ministries, starting from saving the state's expenditure such as optimizing government spending using approved allocations efficiently to avoid many requests for Supplementary Supply. Furthermore, I would also like to congratulate the Ministry of Finance and Economy for the successful implementation of fiscal consolidation. However, I believe there is always room for improvement.
Brunei Vision 2035 is only 13 years away, which includes the 12th and 13th National Development Plan.
Although we see some projects moving progressively, these projects are still lacking effective monitoring and execution.
Lastly, I and Your Honourable Members hope that what will be discussed and the thoughts contributed in this Chamber will be more insightful, beneficial, and yield positive results for all.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I now invite Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I stand in this esteemed Chamber to express profound gratitude to the State Assembly before His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty’s royal address during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council on February 24, 2022.
I fully support and express my gratitude to Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Brunei Darussalam.
Indeed, His Majesty's royal address was eagerly anticipated by the citizens and residents. On this golden opportunity, I am pleased to highlight one of the core messages of His Majesty's address - among others that will be mentioned by my colleagues. His Majesty has indicated that our nation's economy is still largely dependent on the oil and gas sector while acknowledging the positive developments in continuous efforts by relevant agencies in diversifying the nation's economy.
In the oil and gas sector, we note that there has been concrete planning in the governance process of this sector. I gained this insight from a discussion session with the concerned ministry, and I am delighted to hear that this process is ongoing and will be implemented in phases as planned. We pray that this process will successfully commence and continue to be successful.
Before I conclude my Expression of Gratitude to the State Assembly before His Majesty, with all humility, I pray to Allah the Almighty that His Majesty and all members of the royal family, His Majesty's government, and His Majesty's subjects will be granted health, prosperity, and continue to rule Brunei Darussalam with grace and guidance from Allah the Almighty. Amen.
Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to the Ministry of Health because before coming to this session, I had already been trained at a mosque location, and within half an hour of being contacted by the Ministry of Health, they had fully endeavoured and changed my card to green, thanks be to Allah Almighty. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Minister of Health and your team.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I now invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin
All praises are due to Allah, much blessed and pure praises as Allah wills. Praise be to Allah, who is not praised for misfortunes except by Him. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
I foremost wish to express my utmost gratitude before the State Assembly to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, for His Majesty's visit and the royal blessing of His Majesty’s royal address during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council.
The royal message from His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in this esteemed Chamber is highly significant and clearly needs to be upheld, studied, and used as a basis for discussion. It clearly shows that His Majesty always has the welfare and wellbeing of the population in this country at heart.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
I highly respect His Majesty, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's royal message regarding the attention by the government and private sector in addressing inflation rates caused by several travel restrictions still implemented by some countries.
In addressing this issue, I suggest the establishment of bodies that regulate the policy of food sufficiency and safety not just to ensure sufficient supply but also to ensure food prices are on par with the buying power of the population in this country, especially for raw goods.
I also believe that implementing the concept of an edible garden at the residences of the population can reduce daily living costs and facilitate access to fresh supplies without the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak in markets and shopping centers.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I further uphold the royal message from His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam related to efforts to improve self-sufficiency in the agriculture, crop-management, fisheries, and livestock sectors that are being activated, which can contribute to the country's fiscal sustainability.
In this matter, I believe job opportunities among youth and graduates can be expanded and can reduce dependency on foreign labor. I believe the involvement of local citizens and traders can contribute to industrial advancement and subsequently become a contributor to the national economy's growth. I also believe that by further developing these sectors, entrepreneurship opportunities can be expanded as playing a crucial role in creating economic opportunities.
To achieve this aspiration, I believe several strategies will be outlined to create an environment that allows the public sector, private sector, and professionals to collaborate more actively. Through this sector, efforts can also be intensified to improve the income of the population through various initiatives including productivity enhancement by focusing on human capital financing especially retraining and skill improvement in the fields of crop-management, agriculture, livestock, fisheries toward youth. Additionally, with the increased local rice production, I believe that the use of high-tech technology and the implementation of a holistic system will help improve the rice and paddy industry without neglecting farmers' welfare and wellbeing as an addition to food security, paddy harvesting quality, distribution processes, and imported rice should be through quality surveyors without affecting the price stability of rice in this country.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
I believe His Majesty's royal message represents His Majesty's hope in further strengthening the welfare and wellbeing of the population in this country to be continuously preserved.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I now invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, all praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and prayer and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad, the leader of the prophet and the imam, and prayer and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad in every moment and age.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members whom I respect.
I fully support the Proposal proposed by Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office.
The royal command of His Majesty is truly relevant for all of us to uphold and ponder because it is very beneficial to all citizens and the country, containing elements of advice and guidance towards achieving the aspirations of Brunei Vision 2035.
Kaola expresses the highest gratitude to the Council for His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty's royal visit and benevolent royal address in conjunction with the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Session of the Legislative Council on Thursday, 23 Rejab 1443 corresponding to 24 February 2022.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua highlighted that an important aspect in national development is planning. More so, it involves the strategic and holistic view of the country's physical development from all angles and requires the active role of various parties to ensure the country can prosper and be resilient in terms of economy, environment, and social balance to guarantee the overall well-being of the nation.
One crucial characteristic is to have a primary instrument to attract investments by making it investor-friendly, which will directly open up job opportunities for graduates who have completed their studies.
From another angle, it will further boost the growth of local businesses, i.e., Local Business Development. Hence, the royal decree by His Majesty allowing the amendment to the Constitution (Financial Procedure) (Amendment) 2022, which will be enforced on 1 April 2022, will help realize the achievement of Brunei Vision 2035.
Touching briefly on realizing with the implementation of the findings from the Employees Trust Fund (TAP). Kaola is pleased to suggest that it is hoped this will be one of the best solutions that will provide social security to recipients when they retire. It is equally important to strategize to understand the new retirement scheme intended. It also provides an illustration that this retirement scheme can offer a new breath that is more comprehensive, inclusive, robust, and complete in order to achieve the desired goals.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Food Security is among the national agendas given attention. It aims to empower the country's economy in the sectors of agriculture, agrifood, fisheries, and livestock. This includes looking at the pandemic phase approaches so that the reopening of economic activities will proceed safely, and new normal experiences are prioritized.
We can achieve various blessings and mercies from detailed planning and development. This is the result of the hard work of planners and professionals in the country that marks the starting point of all fiscal users of the country, encompassing comprehensively at all government levels.
On this occasion, kaola would like to express congratulations to all planners and professionals, whether in the public or private sector, still in service or retired, as you all are the backbone of the country's planning that we all enjoy today.
In conclusion, let us together advance this beloved country for the prosperity and well-being of the State of Brunei Darussalam.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Naim bin Haji Kamis.
Yang Berhormat Awang Naim bin Haji Kamis
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, and peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
We are grateful to Allah for His mercy and the bounties He has bestowed upon us and our country, Brunei Darussalam, which remains peaceful to this day.
Kaola, representing Zone 3 of the Brunei-Muara District in this honorable council, supports the proposal made by the Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, to express the highest gratitude to the Council for His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty's royal visit to the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session on Thursday, 24 February 2022, and His Majesty's participation in the inaugural ceremony.
With deep gratitude, kaola is very touched to hear His Majesty's royal address, which among other things, highlighted that the Legislative Council is a strategic platform to discuss welfare matters while also serving to think, discuss, and make suggestions and support as well as a place to deliver and voice ideas and opinions concerning welfare matters for the people and country and thus improve any necessary aspects through this Legislative Council. This signifies His Majesty's deep concern and attention to the welfare, prosperity, and harmony of all citizens of Brunei Darussalam.
In this regard, His Majesty also reminded and paid attention to the need for His Majesty's government to be prudent and disciplined in handling and preserving the state finances, especially in expenditures for implementing government projects for the benefit of the people and advancing the country towards compliance with existing Financial Regulations up to His Majesty's consent for amendments to the Constitution Financial Procedure (Amendment 2022) and Financial Regulations 2022, which will come into effect on 1 April 2022.
This care and attitude of His Majesty should be emulated by all citizens in managing their finances in daily life.
In His Majesty's address, it was clear that His Majesty is always concerned about the welfare, happiness, and safety of His subjects in any situation. Especially regarding the financial well-being of His subjects when they retire through the Employees Trust Fund (TAP) Scheme. Therefore, His Majesty's government, through the Ministry of Finance and Economy in collaboration with the Employees Trust Fund, has completed thorough research, the results of which will be implemented in 2023.
Kaola, representing the citizens, is very grateful and welcomes this change and hopes that this change will bring joy and hopes that the TAP issue will no longer arise and be discussed extensively.
Regarding the development and facilities provided by His Majesty's government through the National Development Plan-11, which will end in the Financial Year 2022/2023, it is greatly appreciated that several developments and facilities have been enjoyed by the citizens of this country.
In this connection, kaola also sees and hears that the Supreme Committee of NDP-11 is highly committed and conducts visits from time to time to the RKN project sites to ensure the smooth progress of the related projects and always refine and monitor the specific target outcomes to be achieved.
Kaola also welcomes the NDP-12, which will start in April 2023, and prays that NDP-12 will be achieved and meet the demands of Brunei Vision 2035. Thus, as citizens under His Majesty's leadership, we should be grateful for the various facilities that have been and will be provided by His Majesty's government through NDP-12.
Regarding the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, it is also an essential sector that has received special and profound attention from His Majesty. His Majesty's government, through the responsible agencies, has initiated several suitable initiatives to help empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, including their workers, to continue functioning, growing, and sustaining during the coronavirus pandemic.
The assistance of His Majesty's government is greatly appreciated and welcomed by those involved and concerned. The citizens are also very grateful for His Majesty's decisive actions and steps in implementing the import of daily essential goods during the COVID-19 pandemic, which to some extent impacted the lives and necessities of the citizens in this country, with some traders taking advantage of the situation by raising the prices of essential goods.
In this regard, it is requested that the relevant parties regularly monitor thoroughly all premises in the country to ensure that price controls are complied with and not just sporadically ahead of Ramadan, Hari Raya, or other major holidays.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country's economic downturn has been somewhat affected. However, the country is still capable with revenue from oil and gas. Several results from the development of self-sustainability in agriculture and from agriculture, fisheries, and livestock, which are increasingly growing and active, thus increasing production output.
Finally, let us all pray to Allah SWT for the continuous blessing, guidance, and prosperity of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the royal family, and the people of Brunei Darussalam.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I invite Yang Berhormat Dayang Khairunnisa binti Awang Haji Ash'ari.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Khairunnisa binti Awang Haji Ash'ari
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and peace and prayers upon the Messenger of Allah and his family and companions, and greetings. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The second and third waves of the COVID-19 pandemic have brought various challenges to the community including companies that had to 'wrap up', those who lost jobs, increasing prices of goods including physical and mental problems, falling behind in education, and more.
At the same time, it has also accelerated digital transformation, allowing government and private services to be conducted online. However, it also comes with its own challenges as the poverty gap becomes clearer that the less capable segments of society have difficulty accessing devices and the Internet. We see changes in terms of programs that usually made all physical can be done online. What can be learned through this experience is that we are now able to scrutinize the suitability of a progressive work system where remote working or flexible hours could be introduced as a new approach in employment even if the pandemic is no longer a factor.
On this opportunity, I, would like to express my utmost thanks to the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for considering and implementing proposals and also responses to the issues I have raised in the past five years, including a mental health line, national policy review, climate change issues, sexual harassment in the workplace, solar energy use, mental health awareness issues, youth project grants, and many more.
In preparing for the Deliberations of the Legislative Council, Your Honourable Members have also held several muzakarah sessions with ministries, and during these sessions, old issues that have not yet been resolved or have no solutions were raised. However, as touched upon in the decree of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam during the Official Opening of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session, to use this opportunity to trim what hasn't been neat and to add what still needs to be improved.
Indeed, there are still several issues frequently raised by the public that have not found suitable resolution. One of them is regarding the payment gateway to enable the public to receive payments online from abroad. This can encourage the online business sector that is increasingly becoming a preference especially among the youth. It is hoped that this matter will receive serious attention from the involved ministries considering it is capable of opening a wider business market for our companies.
Participation and involvement of youth due to socioeconomic factors also remain a challenge. They are at risk in terms of academic achievement, mental development, social issues, employment, and being trapped in a cycle of poverty.
The issue of unemployment and also underemployment is also a big issue, especially for graduates who are still under a scholarship bond that has received significant investment from the government.
I fully express my deepest gratitude to His Majesty the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Wadddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for his concern and care. His Majesty's decree touched on the importance of a new retirement scheme to help families plan their financial future and also foreign investment projects that have been implemented to continue to grow and improve the country's economy to open up more employment opportunities for local citizens.
His Majesty also emphasized the issue of abuse of power and breach of trust, which is a disease that can spread and damage any administration management, especially reducing public trust.
I want to emphasize once again the importance of transparency in government governance and eliminating any form of misappropriation. I would like to take this opportunity to express my utmost thanks to government staff, the private sector, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly in efforts to reduce the spread of the Covid-19 disease in this country. Certainly, we have never experienced challenges like this, but with the blessings of prayers, efforts, and cooperation from all parties, we will be able to get through this.
In conclusion, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, all praises to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, and prayers and peace be upon our master Muhammad and upon his family and all his companions.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, thank you for the permission granted to me.
I praise Him, Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala, and I thank Him for the blessing of Islam and the favor of security and peace under a just, compassionate, and wise ruler and a respected leader.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and greetings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, I, the representative of Zone 1 from the Belait District together with the Honourable representative of Zone 2 from the Belait District, are very grateful with sincerity and humbly pay respects to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for me and the communities of Zone 1 and Zone 2 of the Belait District, expressing our highest gratitude and presenting our unwavering loyalty and support to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Both of us also joyously state our full support for the Proposal and speech by the Honourable Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister in the Prime Minister's Office on the Proposal expressing the highest gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty's visit to the Official Opening of the First Session of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session on Thursday, 23rd of Rejab 1443 equivalent to 24th February 2022 and by the grace of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for consenting to use His Majesty's decree at the Official Opening of the First Session of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session and subsequently, I present my utmost gratitude with all sincerity.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I am thankful because by the permission of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala, my colleagues and I are able to join the Legislative Council Meeting for the year 2022 after the previous postponement. Even in this conference this year, we are still in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic that affects us and the world, but our country, Brunei Darussalam, by the permission of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala as a Zikir Nation, holding firmly to Islamic teachings, facing earnest efforts tirelessly with wisdom as much as possible, and placing trust in Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala, aside from the prayers from our beloved King though the spread of Covid-19 is still worrying, but with the attitude of cooperation from all parties in emphasizing a precise responsibility seriously and not lightly, I believe it can be controlled by the permission of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. Regarding the National Budget for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 and regarding the Financial Regulations that have been consented by His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam under the Constitution (Financial Procedure (Amendment)) 2022 which will come into force on April 1, 2022, I fully support it.
However, as decreed by His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam as the Prime Minister of Negara Brunei Darussalam, the relevant parties will comply and be vigilant, prudent, and disciplined in handling the country's finances by setting a regular and disciplined example of spending power only when necessary. May the decree of His Majesty be a pure reminder to us all.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I from Zone 1 together with my counterparts from Zone 2 Daerah Belait are very grateful to Allah for our country is now heading towards efforts of diversifying the country's economic resources which are starting to show successful results besides the main yields of the country, namely oil and gas. As decreed by His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam, the total export of refined fuel/through Foreign Direct Investment projects from January 2021 to November 2021 was valued at USD 4.9 billion and also the success of Brunei Fertilizer Industry located in Mukim Liang which began exporting as much as 6,200 metric tons of urea fertilizer on February 3, 2022.
In the field of natural resources such as agriculture, agri-food, fisheries, and livestock heading towards increased production and towards improving self-sustainability. Additionally, it is hoped that the paddy farmers in the villages especially Daerah Belait that the paddy fields will receive basic facility assistance from the ministry concerned and to continuously monitor and care for the paddy fields to further improve the paddy fields in the villages such as the maintenance of water drainage and ditches leading to streams to address the flood that specifically affect the paddy fields in Daerah Belait as has happened before.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I and my counterparts from Daerah Belait are pleased to share some excerpts from the address delivered by His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of the 38th National Day of Negara Brunei Darussalam in 2022 that despite the country facing various challenges, His Majesty's Government continues to share with the development machinery that produces development and progress in various fields.
One of the ongoing projects is the National Housing Project aimed for the welfare of the citizens. Especially those in need. Hereby I and the people of Daerah Belait and its entire inhabitants extend the highest appreciation to His Majesty's Council. The ministries and departments concerned under it will not ignore the hopes of the people of Daerah Belait for the National Housing Plan in the area to continue its development as in the past 8 to 9 years there has been no further development. Hopefully, the concerned authorities will attend as best as possible.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, through the message I also extracted:
My sir, with the completion of the Temburong District bridge, it brings many benefits with the establishment of the Temburong District Development Authority planning various developments and advancements to be achieved such as in the field of agriculture, economic development, tourism, ecotourism, and others. In my opinion, the steps of establishing the Temburong District Development Authority are the right steps that can eventually be extended to other districts so that each district can have consistent development and progress. I believe it is not impossible for the advancement of all districts. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua to conclude my speech and that of my counterparts from Daerah Belait in this motion of appreciation, I once again take the opportunity to record my undivided loyalty and utmost appreciation and full support towards His Majesty's Council. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, that is all from me and not forgetting to say thank you.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I invite Yang Berhormat Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
I also fully support the Motion of Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department who presented a speech expressing gratitude towards His Majesty's Council that was graciously attended to the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Session of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Meeting and consented to deliver a decree.
His Majesty in the decree touched on the Direct Foreign Interaction FDI and efforts so far have had an impact on the increase of economic activities in the country by prioritizing the involvement of local authorities and business and employment opportunities. Since the implementation of fiscal consolidation and the economic theme Investing For Our Future, I congratulate and commend all efforts and cooperation of the government machinery, private sector, and community involved in building a sustainable economy.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I also support all the speeches presented by fellow Your Honourable Members this afternoon and am grateful for the contributions of the local private sector in efforts to enhance food security and contribute to the country's GDP as well as support the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. If there is something that we should learn from this pandemic, it is the need for unity and cooperation. Humility should be our approach to driving policy.
Unity and agreement in national development are reminders from His Majesty's decree during the 38th National Day of Negara Brunei Darussalam. Let's use the pandemic recipe to position our country as an inclusive economy with a social purpose for future generations.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
My proposal is to allow our worker industry to fully recover to enable fairness, protection, and sustainability for the worker industry regardless of local or foreign workers, permanent, or informal but to enable fairness in the worker market for both employers and workers can be determined by various key sectors. Suitability with changes and the labor and economic market coming out of the endemic, improvements in worker industry legislation that covers all salaried work regardless of the country of origin. Ensure minimum training or lifelong learning is built into the labor industry framework, enhance end-to-end digital administrative processes, and enforce a fair arbitration system between employers and workers in case of disputes in negotiations. I call on the government machinery to upgrade outdated policies and adapt to the current situation by providing awareness to enterprises and sources of professional manpower and workers.
To conclude, I reflect on a quotation from the National Constitution of Brunei:
Knowledge is the light of the heart, Able to calculate profits and losses Easily distinguish true friends, Guide to choose the good and the bad.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Firstly, I express my gratitude to Allah for with His permission, we can present ourselves in the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Season.
Next, I respectfully present my utmost gratitude to the Council under His Majesty Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, for graciously attending the Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session and bestowing a royal address. Furthermore, I support the motion of gratitude proposed by Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office for His Majesty’s inauguration and royal address yesterday.
Indeed, His Majesty’s royal address outlined seven main aspects, among others, concerning matters on the country's financial stewardship, Employees Trust Fund (TAP), the 12th National Development Plan, food security, the impact of pandemic spread, commodity prices, inflation rates, and efforts to increase Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as well as to enhance the agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries, and livestock sectors.
In full confidence and belief, the Government of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam possess expertise, good practices, thoughtful and heartfelt considerations, ensuring the economy's continuity, and the welfare of the citizens and residents in this country.
I also firmly believe that His Majesty is always open to early exploration of good suggestions and considerations from various interest groups that could benefit and safeguard the nation’s interest, thus achieving the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
The growth and sustainability of the nation's economy also depend on the inflation rate that affects the expenditure of all society layers to ensure the continuity of life alongside ensuring adequate access to health care and ensuring that the educational system runs efficiently in line with the community's capabilities. All these are the backbone of Brunei Vision 2035 that requires citizens to be mentally, spiritually, and physically healthy, educated, and skilled contributing to a dynamic and resilient economy.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
On this occasion, I hope that the citizens and residents of this country will continue to unite and strive to maintain the tradition of mutual assistance, strengthened by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic for more than two years now. I am pleased to express the highest appreciation and thanks to all front-liner layers, whether from the security sector, uniformed teams, medical and health, and volunteerism, all public service citizens, the private sector, and others who have ventured beyond expectations through hard work and high sacrifices to assist the government and the nation. May all efforts provided receive a fitting return.
Regarding technology, the authorities' persistence in advancing digital technology facilities towards the goal of Brunei's Digital Economy, along with ensuring information security integrity, should always be sensitive to needs and gaps that need to be bridged so that targeted users across various age groups can be reached. It is vital to explore initiatives to create digital assistants to support the utilization of online services and facilities.
Concerning the implementation changes to the Employees Trust Fund (TAP) which will take place in 2023, I am thankful to His Majesty for this grace and convey my highest gratitude. It is a long-awaited grace that should be appreciated so that this grace will continue to exist in line with the verse in Surah Ibrahim which means: "And remember when your Lord proclaimed: 'If you give thanks, I will give you more; but if you are ungrateful, verily My punishment is indeed severe'".
Let us pray to our Creator that our country is kept away from the epidemic diseases and disasters, instead showered with blessings and long-lasting prosperity. We pray to our Creator for the welfare, mercy, guidance, and protection of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam and royals from الله سبحانه وتعالى.
وبالله التوفيق والهداية، والسلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته، dear members of the country,
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
I invite Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the beginning and end, I praise Him, seeking His aid in old and new, relying on Him in secret and in public, witnessing that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
With high regard for this nation and in welfare, may الله honor it, I fully support the Motion by Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office. On this occasion, I, in the highest regard, present my gratitude to the Council under His Majesty Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty’s attendance and royal address at the Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session on Thursday, 23 Rejab 1443 equivalent to 24 February 2022.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, with all sincerity, I express my gratitude to الله سبحانه وتعالى, for by His will, I am present in this honorable assembly this year. To fulfill the wishes of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, as contained in His Majesty's royal address at the Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session, His Majesty hoped that Your Honourable Members would be ready to offer their thoughts and opinions freely and openly for our collective good. Hence, representing Zone 2, Brunei-Muara District, I will strive to my utmost to act in the best interests of the people and residents.
The Legislative Council undoubtedly plays a significant role in driving the nation's development, discussing matters for the people and country, and serving as a strategic forum to debate and resolve any outstanding issues and improve any necessary needs.
Let us focus on His Majesty's address during the Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session, where His Majesty, for this council's session, will discuss the National Budget for the Financial Year 2022/2023, which has been deliberated together with the relevant ministries in the National Budget Committee Meeting, reminding the importance of prudent and disciplined financial allocation and spending that emphasizes frugal expenditure.
If practiced, الله will enable the country to ensure spending that can save surplus revenue for more beneficial allocations. The responsible parties must be wise in managing finances according to established procedures and must have an honest, trustworthy, considerate, and fair attitude in making decisions.
His Majesty also focused on the Employees Trust Fund (TAP) issue and acknowledged that the study has been completed by the Ministry of Finance and Economy in collaboration with TAP for full implementation beginning in 2023.
Regarding the amendment of the information technology system act and its organized implementation, it will provide understanding to those involved in the scheme, especially this retirement scheme. This implementation marks the government's high commitment to its citizens' future benefits.
His Majesty also raised several matters to draw the council's attention to remain focused on significant and challenging issues and not let them distract and forget, as we know the 11th NDP will conclude in 2022/2023. The 12th NDP is set to follow in April 2023, with the NDP Secretariat at the Ministry of Finance and Economy actively preparing the roadmap for several projects to be implemented in the upcoming 12th NDP involving all ministries towards achieving the collective efforts towards Brunei Vision 2035.
Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua, The Government of His Majesty has also extended assistance to Micro and Small Enterprises aimed at reducing the termination of workers during the wave of the COVID-19 outbreak. His Majesty's decree emphasized this employment sector, that all relevant parties should pay attention to mobilizing local youths to enhance existing opportunities. Do not let them lose their jobs, especially during the pandemic, particularly workers in the private sector who are affected. Ensuring they can receive financial assistance extended for their daily living. We must carefully and sensitively study to consider our local youth, so their lives are secured in the future. This should not be viewed lightly but needs closer monitoring.
Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua, Also requiring the council's attention from His Majesty's decree that another important matter to be focused on is the entry of foreign investors into this country. It will open job opportunities for local youth and business opportunities for our entrepreneurs to increase revenue including providing many benefits to our country itself. Importantly, it should be engaged openly, not just a select few who can seize the opportunity but let many because many show progress.
Entrepreneurs must move to expand their business and industries without stopping, not halfway but need to face various business challenges until reaching the peak or success. There need to be continuous encouragements from the relevant parties to the efforts of the agricultural, agri-food, fisheries, and livestock sectors. This must always be implemented because it is a necessity for the country.
Kaola wish to propose in this State Legislative Assembly and all parties in this Hall to focus more on caring for all the problems of the citizens and residents. We should adopt a perspective that is truly believed to help improve their lives. Whatever issues or problems we handle it well through consultations and mutual agreement. What is important from now is focusing on the conference. If today we plan something, today we also sanction something and promise to the people about something but today is the day we are heard by the entire people waiting for the best from all of us in this conference. Therefore, fulfill what is spoken.
The issue of rising prices was also touched on that caught His Majesty's attention. Likewise, the complaints from various parties, His Majesty's concern about the arbitrary rise in prices by merchants, so the relevant parties will be able to monitor the truth given. The occurrence of rising prices of daily necessities will add difficulties for those with low income. Moreover, for those self-employed who sometimes do not receive income.
Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua, His Majesty also touched on the motto of this State Legislative Assembly that is to tidy up whatever that is untidy and improve whatever that needs improvement, is the main key to planning, commitment, action, and outcome by all parties in implementing efficient and effective governance that is the responsibility of the ministries and departments under it.
Lastly, Kaola wishes to together extend the highest gratitude to His Majesty’s Council, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty's decree, which is very clear and shows His Majesty's caring wisdom wanting the welfare and prosperity of all layers of the people.
Thank you, Your Honorable Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Before I invite 3 more honourable members to give their views on this Motion, I would like to remind that the temperature in this Hall is getting colder and we have been in this Hall for about 2 and a half hours. Therefore, I ask if the 3 Honourable Members could shorten their speeches so that we can perfectly complete this Motion by this evening. Now, I welcome Your Honourable Awang Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit
Thank you, Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua.
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
All praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, and peace and blessings be upon our Master Muhammad and upon all his family and companions.
Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Those who believe in the Unseen and keep up prayer and spend out of what We have provided them, greetings of peace and good evening.
To proceed, all thanks to Allah for by His grace and success from Allah the Almighty, in this Motion of gratitude, Kaola representing from Zones 1 and 2 of Tutong District, fully support the Motion from Your Honourable Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office.
In the time given, Kaola and fellow representatives of Tutong District extend the highest gratitude to His Majesty’s Council, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for His Majesty's blessings and further granting a decree during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Session of the State Legislative Assembly on Thursday, 23 Rejab 1443 corresponding to 24 February 2022.
Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua, Kaola and fellow representatives of Zones 1 and 2, Tutong District, also express our gratitude to Allah the Almighty because with His permission, in the current global atmosphere still plagued by the coronavirus, our country too is facing the third wave of the COVID-19 outbreak, which now has an increasing number of infections. However, our country is facing it with a precise responsibility and united, combating this virus under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam through several ministries especially the Ministry of Health. Now, all citizens and residents have received 95%, 2 doses of vaccination and 50%, 3 doses of vaccination for free. Hopefully, the third dose reaches its target of over 90% as soon as possible.
Moreover, highly appreciated is that His Majesty's government has extended financial aid to Micro and Small Enterprises and also private sector workers to reduce job termination or affect daily livelihoods. On this occasion, Kaola and fellow representatives of Tutong District do not forget to express our highest appreciation to the officers, doctors, staff, and frontliners and anyone involved in addressing the symptoms of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Your Honourable Yang Di-Pertua, His Majesty mentioned the National Budget Bill for the Fiscal Year 2022/2023, so that every strategic planning of ministries and departments is expected to be managed with full prudence and discipline according to priority and necessity.
In this regard, Kaola and fellow representatives of Tutong District highly value that the government has several development planning that needs to be prioritized for example finding a rice field area in Tutong District to support the Kandol Rice Project in Belait District, and also the priority towards some main roads in Tutong District for the safety of the people, for example, the frequent flooding on the Bakuru and Jalan Keranching Rambai roads which has long been plagued by repeated flooding has not yet been resolved. The construction of the Tutong District Vocational School and the attention towards the construction of riverbank barriers on the beach should be prioritized.
To Allah we belong, for the concern and never-ending diligence of His Majesty, His Majesty's government has implemented flood diversion projects in several areas of Tutong District now showing results. Some of the areas that were frequently hit by floods, now rarely occur. When the construction of some flood barriers and two high floodwater culverts is completed at Mukim Tanjong Maya. Even if there is flooding, it does not last long. Now there are two new bridges being constructed in Kampung Bukit Udal and Kampung Sungai Damit and the residents of Tutong District who use the main road as a daily commute are grateful because the old road from Kampung Keriam to Kampung Kupang has been partially upgraded and also restored in stages.
Kaola and fellow representatives of Zones 1 and 2, Tutong District, hope that in this 12th National Development Plan, any also unfinished development projects or new development planning in Tutong District can be implemented and discussed together with Kaola regarding its process.
Subsequently, His Majesty hopes that Your Honourable Members will provide their thoughts and opinions without hesitation by offering constructive ideas. In accordance with His Majesty's decree, I and my colleagues from the Tutong District will make every effort to fulfill His Majesty's wish with full dedication and responsibility, providing views, thoughts, and cooperation with any ministry for the progress of the country and the well-being of the citizens. Furthermore, I and my colleagues, as leaders rooted deeply within our mukims and villages, often receive various thoughts and complaints. Finally, we pray that our country remains peaceful, prosperous, and free from the grasp of the COVID-19 pandemic, and always under the protection of إِنَّا لِلّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ.
However, the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic is a test for us on how to manage our lives according to the new norm. The citizens of this country must now adapt to living with the endemic phase so that activities in education, religion, the economy, and national administration are not affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In conclusion, everything contained in His Majesty's decree demonstrates leniency, leadership, and wisdom, desiring the welfare and prosperity of the people and residents of this country. May Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam, and the royal family always be in good health and under the protection of الله سبحانه وتعالى.
Thank you, peace be upon you, mercy of Allah, and His blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
My respects, Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Umarali bin Esung.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Umarali bin Esung
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
All praise to Allah for bestowing us with health as we welcome the leaders of the caliphate and community, where members of the council gather to discuss matters of the nation.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
I fully support the Motion put forth by Yang Berhormat Pehin Special Advisor to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, to offer our highest gratitude to His Majesty's Assembly at the formal opening ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session.
I express my highest gratitude for His Majesty's decree, especially in managing the nation's finances prudently and disciplinarily. This includes emphasizing the organized development of the country, benefiting the nation, and its people. This includes channeling aid to the people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In relation to this, I hope that in the 12th National Development Plan starting in 2023, efforts towards empowering community economics through the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Assistance Scheme can be multiplied at the national level. This includes expanding the scope of new norm businesses that benefit all groups, introducing initiatives such as diversifying forms of interest-free business loans to new and existing bumiputera enterprises. Providing a more attractive and comprehensive business ecosystem, whether in urban or rural areas. Driving the country's development agenda with new ideas to create more attractive business opportunities, prioritizing local products as the choice and introducing an Islamic business concept system as the basis for creating a more dynamic and blessed economy.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. I am also interested in His Majesty’s decree regarding the country's food security during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a significant impact, especially on food sources in Negara Brunei Darussalam. In this matter, it is time for concerted efforts to increase local food product outputs continuously, including updating applications for temporary leasehold land (TOL) to indigenous people for agriculture or business startup purposes.
Creating business facilitation schemes to reduce operational costs and provide ease and assistance to indigenous traders to increase product yields, such as facilitating consignment schemes, shared machinery, etc.
Expanding programs and projects, especially in introducing new technology for producing, processing, and broadening the marketing system for high-quality and durable frozen food products.
With this, the goal towards increasing self-sufficiency will be achieved, thereby reducing dependency on imported products as it stands today.
Thank you, peace be upon you, mercy of Allah, and His blessings.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
We now invite Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
I am in excellent health, all praise to Allah, and I wish the same for you. Thank you for your guidance, and of course, I will follow your directives.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Yang Di-Pertua, and Your Honourable Members.
Peace be upon you, and Allah's mercy and blessings. With gratitude to Allah, Subhanahu wa Ta'ala, for His blessings, I'm here with you in this noble assembly to fully support the Motion proposed by Yang Berhormat Special Advisor to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, to offer gratitude to His Majesty’s Council at the formal opening ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, I highly admire the advice, mandate, and commands His Majesty has given in considering and planning strategic matters focusing on aspects of the country's financial management, National Development Plan, and expanding the national economy.
I am confident and fully believe that the efforts carried out by the government along with related agencies have shown results. All of these are to ensure the economic stability of the country and the well-being of its people. Hence, I welcome what has been decreed by His Majesty regarding the review of the Employees Trust Fund (TAP) scheme, which will be fully implemented at the beginning of 2023. What is expected is a positive change that can give a new hope for a better life guarantee for potential retirees who generally rely on TAP and Old Age Pension Allowance.
Furthermore, I feel that knowledge and skills in personal financial management are important to ensure stability and well-being in life. Thus, on this basis, the government has introduced personal financial management courses for potential retirees so that they are wise in managing and controlling their finances. It is proposed that this personal finance course be mandatorily implemented for new government officers to instil skills and awareness of the importance of personal financial management. Indeed, this course could also be introduced in civic programs for graduates who have completed their studies.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Regarding the 12th National Development Plan starting in April 2023, I hope that the plans to be implemented in the next five years are not just business as usual but embody a budget that propels a country forward in the post-COVID-19 era, including exploring digital economy, Industry 4.0 economy, and the digitalization of the national economy can be applied to the Islamic financial system capable of playing a major role and as an instrument for balancing the country's economy, for example, mandatory charity like zakat plays a role in supporting the country's economy under the Social Security Strategy where nearly tens of millions are distributed to the Asnaf Poor and Needy Group each year. I hope that emphasis will be placed on voluntary charity, which is indeed encouraged in Islam, such as waqf and sadaqah jarihah. Like also Islamic financial instruments, such as baihtulmal assets and trusts, charity like fidyah and kaffarah should be highlighted.
Kaola hopes this matter can be taken seriously, as if the Islamic financial instruments are implemented systematically through the digital economy, it will have a positive impact on the country's economy as part of the efforts to ensure the achievement of Brunei Vision 2035. May what kaola conveys be pondered upon and well received as a proposal for improvement. That is all, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members.
The motion that has been presented. I now invite Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
kaola would like to express my utmost gratitude for the opportunity given to kaola to briefly speak in support of the Motion by Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, which is the Motion expressing gratitude to the Council for the distinguished arrival of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam and delivering his majesty’s speech in conjunction with the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara on Thursday, 23 Rejab 1443 corresponding to 24 February 2022.
The speech by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam was truly visionary and full of wisdom containing advice and keen observations as well as far-sighted views as a protection for the country.
The speech by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia also contains reminders that clearly reflect his majesty’s concern and wisdom in ensuring the prosperity of the nation and the well-being of the people and residents of Brunei Darussalam are always protected and guaranteed, especially as the country faces and handles the challenges of the present, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic in a new way of life.
Therefore, kaola would like to emphasize three points from the speech by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam as follows:
His Majesty emphasized the importance of the implementation of the department and ministry’s programs and projects which will contribute significantly to ensuring a substantial contribution to economic development including attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Joint Ventures, etc. Enhancing revenue including food security, whether offshore or local, or opening quality job opportunities for the locals, ensuring the safety and harmony of the nation as well as stimulating skill and productivity enhancement, and prioritizing compliance with financial regulations in ensuring the state’s expenditure is managed with full integrity, prudence, and discipline.
His Majesty also spoke about the study on the Employees Trust Fund (TAP), which has been completed and is starting implementation in 2023. This clearly reflects His Majesty’s foresight and observation for the people and residents of the nation to enjoy prosperity and a capable living after retirement.
His Majesty spoke about the 11th National Development Plan which will end in the 2022/2023 Financial Year. Therefore, the roadmap for projects is actively being prepared to be included in the 12th National Development Plan by adopting a Whole of Government approach in efforts to support the achievement of Brunei Vision 2035.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
The Government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia through the Prime Minister’s Office will continuously strengthen governance or Good Governance at all levels and sectors to ensure the quality of services provided to the public is the best, efficient, effective, and importantly, people-friendly. This includes the extensive use of information technology in the public service to ensure services to the public, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, can still be delivered.
The country's economy is not exempt from the impacts of global market uncertainty following the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. This will continue to affect the outcomes and allocations of the National Budget, challenging our achievements in attaining sustainable economic growth and fiscal balance. Therefore, we are all called upon to make the public sector more efficient and effective besides updating policies and other initiatives being implemented by a government agency. In the short term, we need to control the country's fiscal balance while ensuring the economy can grow strongly and consistently. Therefore, we need an integrated approach (Whole of Nation) and Whole of Government Approach as decreed. Efforts towards this should be mobilized together by the government and private sectors as well as all residents. We all play an equally important role in sailing through the stormy seas to achieve the same goal.
In other words, the government and private sectors as well as the society of this country are important to join hands and work as a strong and cohesive team so the nation can utilize the challenges and ensure opportunities towards effective and positive change. Based on this, the office through Brunei Vision 2035 will work hand in hand with all stakeholders to ensure all planning and projects implemented support the national vision.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
In this honourable House, let us deliberate together by making good considerations, proposing suggestions, recommendations, proposals to be studied and acknowledged for their resolution or ways to address them as also recommended by Islam and the concept of Malay Islamic Monarchy. The illumination, suggestions, and recommendations by Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari earlier is a good example and its steps need to be considered, as well as the suggestions of other Honourable Members that followed. This is what is meant by the decree of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia emphasizing that in this conference we should be capable of presenting strategic matters that strengthen the country’s achievements to guarantee the welfare of the people and residents. At the end of his majesty’s decree, there was emphasis that this session of the Majlis Mesyuarat Negara this year will be able to focus more on strategic matters and what needs to be improved. We hold his majesty’s decree in the highest regard by emphasizing in this honourable House. Issues of national interest, harmony, and the welfare of the society should always be safeguarded and prioritized.
Finally, kaola would like to express the highest gratitude to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam for his majesty’s bountiful decree.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
With the contribution of the speech made by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, it automatically concludes the discussions made by the Members of this House regarding a Motion that was presented by Yang Berhormat Penasihat Khas Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri and with that, I now wish to ask all Honourable Members whether we pass this Motion or otherwise. Those in agreement, please raise your hand.
(All Members raise their hands in agreement)
Thank you, it seems all members agree thus this Motion is approved.
Your Honourable Members, I adjourn this meeting and, God willing, we will reconvene tomorrow, Saturday, 26 February 2022, starting at 9.30 am.
(The meeting is adjourned)
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