DAY 3 MORNING
26TH FEB 2022 - MORNING
Help needed with Jawi and Arabic characters, please email pr@queeniecy.com if you have experience with Markdown.
The information presented on this webpage is based on processed PDFs downloaded from the official website and translated using OpenAI technology. We have taken steps to ensure accuracy, but if you identify any discrepancies or issues, please kindly notify us at pr@queeniecy.com so that we can make necessary adjustments. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Despite our best efforts to ensure the accuracy of these translations, please note that they were performed by AI technology. As such, we cannot guarantee their infallibility and are not responsible for any inaccuracies or misinterpretations that may arise from the translated content. If you have suggestions for better translations, please email the specific section along with your proposed translation to pr@queeniecy.com. We are committed to continuous improvement and greatly appreciate your input.
YANG DI-PERTUA
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib, PSNB., S.LJ., 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-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Finance and Economy and Minister of Foreign Affairs, 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, Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, 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, Special Honorary Advisor to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Was not present in the afternoon)
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, Minister of Defence II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister of Health, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd. Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd. Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Ir. Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, Minister of Development, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Attended virtually)
Yang Berhormat Dato Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein, Minister of Energy, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, Minister of Education, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Attended virtually)
Yang Berhormat Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Attended virtually)
APPOINTED MEMBERS OF TITLED PERSONS
Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu. (Was not present in the morning and attended virtually in the afternoon)
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim.
APPOINTED MEMBERS WHO HAVE ACHIEVED EXCELLENCE
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Umarali bin Esung.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabil bin Haji Arshad.
Yang Berhormat Awang Ong Tiong Oh.
Yang Berhormat Fdr. Ar. Dayang Siti Rozaimeiranty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Khairunnisa binti Awang Haji Ash'ari.
Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad.
APPOINTED MEMBERS REPRESENTING DISTRICTS
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon, District Head of Berakas ‘B’, Zone 1 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Naim bin Haji Kamis, District Head of Kota Batu, Zone 3 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin, District Head of Gadong ‘A’, Zone 4 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari, Head of Limau Manis Village, Zone 5 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman, Head of the Village of Masjid Lama, Pekan Muara, Sabun and Pelumpong, Zone 2 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, District Head of Liang, Zone 1 - Belait District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Hanapi bin Mohd. Siput, Head of Labi I Village, Zone 2 - Belait District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Wahab bin Apong, District Head of Tanjong Maya, Zone 1 - Tutong District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit, District Head of Telisai, Zone 2 - Tutong District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, District Head of Bokok, All five Mukims of Temburong District.
IN ATTENDANCE
Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Jaya Dato Paduka Awang Haji Judin Haji Asar, Clerk to the Legislative Council, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Mulia Dayang Rose Aminah binti Haji Ismail, Deputy Clerk to the Legislative Council, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
(The meeting started at 9:30 am)
Deputy Clerk
The first meeting of the eighteenth session of the Legislative Council opened on the third day, Saturday, 25 Rejab 1443H corresponding to 26 February 2022, with a Dua Selamat (Prayer of Safety).
DOA SELAMAT
The Dua Selamat was recited by Yang Dimuliakan Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Mustapa bin Haji Murat.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
We are grateful to Almighty Allah SWT for His blessings and permission, we can once again be present this morning to convene on the third day of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Meeting. Blessings and peace upon our Great Messenger Muhammad SAW, his companions, and his devout followers until the end of time.
Your Honourable Members. Yesterday afternoon, the conference has successfully passed the Proposed Motions and this morning we will immediately proceed to the next matters.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
Item VI - Bills to be proposed by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd. Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. We now move to Item VI - Bills. A Bill will be proposed by Yang Berhormat Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II. I now invite Yang Berhormat to present the Bill.
Yang Berhormat Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. With all due respect, kaola seek permission to introduce a Bill Titled: "An Act to Appropriate a Sum from the Consolidated Fund for the Service of the Financial Year 2022/2023 and to allocate that sum for certain purposes", for its first reading. Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. Yang Berhormat Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II has just proposed for the Bill to be read for the first time.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
A Bill Titled: "An Act to Supply a Sum of Money from the Consolidated Fund for the Financial Year 2022/2023 and to allocate the said money for certain purposes".
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 Chairman, I seek permission to inform this assembly to propose the second and third readings of the Bill Titled "An Act to Supply a Sum of Money from the Consolidated Fund for the Financial Year 2022/2023 and to allocate the said money for certain purposes", in today's session. In accordance with the Rules of the State Legislative Council, I intend to propose the said Bill for its second and third readings today. Thus, I request the Honourable Chairman's permission to suspend the Permanent Orders of the State Legislative Council to enable such proposals today. This request is solely to enable this assembly to carry out its duties more smoothly and orderly. Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. Having heard the reason and evidence as well as the cause presented by the Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, I allow the suspension of the Permanent Orders of the State Legislative Council to enable the Bill titled: "An Act to Supply a Sum of Money from the Consolidated Fund for the Financial Year 2022/2023 and to allocate the said money for certain purposes" to be read for the second and third times according to Article 48 (3) of the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam. Please proceed Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Your Honourable Chairman. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Your Honourable Chairman for allowing me to read the Bill Titled: "An Act to Supply a Sum of Money from the Consolidated Fund for the Financial Year 2022/2023 and to allocate the said money for certain purposes" for the second time.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members. The purpose of this Bill is to authorize the disbursement of $5.7 billion from the Consolidated Fund for the Financial Year 2022/2023 and its allocation for the purposes stated in the Schedule. In doing so, I seek permission to briefly explain the support for the National Budget Estimates based on analyses and assessments such as the government's financial capability and the leadership in government spending as the basis in preparing the National Budget Plan for the Financial Year 2022/2023. This includes the Global and Brunei Darussalam Economic Outlook.
We extend our gratitude to Allah the Almighty, for with His permission and blessings as well as the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the citizens and residents of this country can enjoy peace and prosperity amidst various challenges faced at this time.
On this occasion, on behalf of the Government of His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, I would like to record our appreciation and thousands of thanks especially to the frontliners, including volunteers and security agencies both in the public and private sectors for their service and sacrifices made to ensure the country and all sections of society are safe and protected from the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak.
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the landscape of much of the economy including Brunei Darussalam and its impact has affected social and economic activities due to movement restrictions implemented since the first and second waves in an effort to contain the outbreak.
In addition to the impacts faced domestically, the global supply chain has also been affected due to movement restrictions that have affected the production of supplier countries, and consumer demand cannot be met, especially in economic sectors that rely on external sources.
To address the outbreak in the country, the government has further enhanced the National Vaccination Programme which began on April 3, 2021. To date, more than 94% of citizens and residents have received injections, thus allowing the country to declare an endemic phase on December 15, 2021. With this endemic phase, the public can carry out all daily activities as usual by practicing the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and Early Endemic Phase Guidelines established by the Ministry of Health. To achieve this program, several measures have been taken as follows:
Mobile Vaccination Clinic services, especially for rural residents and those with disabilities;
Teen Vaccination Programme for adolescents aged 12 to 17 which began on November 8, 2021; and
Administration of booster doses to the public aged 18 and above who have completed 2 doses of vaccination.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members.
The global economic landscape remains uncertain due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The direction of economic recovery is still unpredictable despite vaccines and vaccination programs implemented by countries around the world. However, concerns with the emergence of new variants have affected travel movements, thereby affecting the economic recovery of a country. The global economy slumped at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 due to the implementation of "the great lockdown", as a measure to contain the outbreak. The global economic growth recorded a decrease of negative 3.1%, following the closure of several economic sectors in an effort to contain the outbreak, leading to an increase in unemployment which had a negative impact especially on the development and hospitality sectors. At the same time, oil-exporting countries also faced several challenges such as the fall in global oil prices and commercial demand in the market for fossil fuels.
Furthermore, this has prompted several countries' commitment to decarbonisation or green recovery and the gradual widespread technological change has made renewable energies a preferred option.
The emergence of the Delta variant in 2021 affected the momentum of global economic recovery. However, adjustments to the new norms and continued economic stimulus support in major economies have allowed the global economy to recover or rebound, and in the World Economic Outlook (WEO) report issued in October 2021, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasted that global economic growth will increase by 4.9% for the year 2022.
However, following the emergence of the new Omicron variant and the ongoing global supply chain disruption, the IMF in its WEO report issued in January 2022 has lowered the global economic growth forecast for 2022 to 4.4%. Meanwhile, economic growth in the Asia region specifically Emerging and Developing Asia, (China, India & ASEAN-5) for 2022 is forecasted at 5.9% in the IMF WEO report issued in January 2022, compared to 6.3% in the IMF WEO report issued in October 2021. The IMF also predicts that the global trade volume will grow at a rate of 6% in 2022 compared with 9.3% in 2021.
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) agency through its report in January 2022 forecasted that the price of Brent oil will increase on average from $71 per barrel in 2021 to $75 per barrel in 2022. The increase in oil prices is driven by oil production rates that cannot meet demand and an increase in the average global use of petroleum and liquid fuels by about 3.6 million barrels per day from 96.9 million barrels per day in 2021, to 100.5 million barrels per day in 2022.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members.
Next, I would like to share the country's economic performance. In 2020, the country's oil and gas sector was also affected by the decline in global oil demand. However, the country's overall economy recorded positive growth in 2020 at a rate of 1.1% due to strong growth from the non-oil and gas sector. This growth was caused by an increase in downstream activity in the production of petroleum and chemical products and the fisheries sector.
For the third quarter of 2021, the Gross Domestic Product of Brunei Darussalam decreased by 2.2% compared to the third quarter of 2020. This was due to a decrease in crude oil production to 97.1 thousand barrels per day in the third quarter of 2021 compared with 100.6 thousand barrels per day in the third quarter of 2020 and natural gas production of 750.9 thousand MMBtu per day in the third quarter of 2021 compared to 834.5 thousand MMBtu per day in the third quarter of 2020, which was partly caused by movement restrictions that affected activities related to oil well resolutions including well, reservoir, and facilities management.
However, this decline was offset by a positive development from the non-oil and gas sector by 1.0% in the third quarter of 2021 compared to the third quarter of 2020. This positive development was driven by increased production from the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector at a rate of 27.9% due to increases from the subsector of vegetables, fruits and other fish, agricultural produce, the fishing subsector, and the livestock food subsector. In addition, there were other sectors that also contributed to positive development such as the subsector of air transport, the financial subsector, communications subsector, and health service subsector.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), ASEAN Plus 3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have projected positive economic growth for Brunei Darussalam in 2022 at rates of 2.6%, 3.5%, and 3.3%, respectively. This is by taking into account recovery and economic strengthening efforts implemented especially in the production of downstream oil and gas industrial products and related activities from Hengyi Industries Sdn. Bhd. and Brunei Fertilizer Industries Sdn. Bhd. (BFI).
However, this positive development may be slowed by the situation of increasing global inflation caused by the global supply chain being affected by COVID-19. The country's inflation rate in 2020 was 1.9% and at a rate of 1.7% as of November 2021. This situation is very different before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, that is, the country's inflation rate was at a minimum level.
The increasing global inflation rate has affected not only this country's consumers but also manufacturers, considering the country is heavily dependent on imported products including consumer goods and intermediate goods used as inputs for local product production. The main cause of global inflation rate is the soaring logistics and transportation costs, and the rising costs of raw materials. According to the Freights Baltic Index Global Container Freight Index, the transportation cost for a global container has sharply increased from US$1,342 for a 40 cubic foot container in July 2019 to US$9,806 in January 2022, which is at least a 6-fold increase. This is further exacerbated by congestion at major ports worldwide causing delays in goods delivery.
The high inflation rate experienced globally is a matter beyond this country's control. Not only does it affect industrial sectors worldwide but also the quality of life by increasing the cost of daily living. In connection, the Ministry of Finance and Economy is constantly monitoring and studying the impact of this global inflation on the country's economy.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua Dewan and Your Honourable Members.
Allow kaola to share the government's fiscal position for the Financial Year 2020/2021. The government's revenue collection decreased by 57.7% to $2.05 billion compared to the Financial Year 2019/2020 ($4.85 billion). Meanwhile, the actual government expenditure decreased by 9.9% to $5.29 billion compared to the Financial Year 2019/2020 ($5.87 billion). Therefore, the government recorded a deficit of $3.24 billion for the Financial Year 2020/2021. This is the highest deficit since the country experienced a deficit in the Financial Year 2014/2015. This is largely due to low global oil prices, with some instances of prices at US$20 per barrel, and an average rate of US$42 per barrel in 2020. At the same time, domestic crude oil and LNG production also decreased due to unforeseen deferments and maintenance on oil wells.
Next, kaola would like to share the updated government fiscal for the year 2021/2022. Following the rise of global oil prices exceeding US$90 per barrel, the projected government revenue collection for the Financial Year 2021/2022 has been updated to $4.15 billion compared to $2.05 billion in the Financial Year 2020/2021.
Meanwhile, government expenditure for the Financial Year 2021/2022 is projected to increase to $5.67 billion compared to $5.29 billion in the Financial Year 2020/2021. This increase is largely due to government commitments since August 2021 following the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak, and as of February 24, 2022, the government has spent a total of $138.5 million to finance the following:
To increase the testing capacity for SARS COV-2 to 8,000 tests a day, Brunei Covid 19 AirLab has been operational since August 19, 2021.;
Provision of Special Allowance to the frontline including doctors, nurses, paramedics, ambulance drivers, volunteers, cleaners, security guards, and all those serving with the Ministry of Health at the National Isolation Center Tutong and at quarantine centers as well as vaccination centers.;
Purchase of Vaccines including the global COVID-19 Vaccine Access Facility or COVAX.;
Expenditure to add a temporary National Isolation Center for critical cases in the PKBN Building in the Temburong District, Mahad Islam Brunei Campus and Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School, Tutong District, the Third Battalion Lumut Camp, and the PTE Sixth Form Center in the Belait District.;
Expenditure to implement the Vaccine Management System and Phase 3 of the Bruhealth System Application and to increase the capacity of the BruHealth system and implementation of the BruHealth Disaster Recovery Site.;
Expenditure to purchase ration for individuals undergoing self-isolation at isolation centers and residences.; and
Expenditure to purchase Antigen Rapid Test specifically for use by ministries and government departments including schools and higher education institutions.
Based on the estimated revenue and expenditure collections kaola shared earlier, the government is expected to record a budget deficit of $1.52 billion in the Financial Year 2021/2022 compared to $3.24 billion in the Financial Year 2020/2021.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Next, kaola is pleased to share the Government Revenue Budget for the Financial Year 2022/2023, which is projected to amount to $3.17 billion, of which $2.25 billion is from the oil and gas sector; $923 million is non-oil and gas sector revenue. The breakdown of these revenues includes the following:
Total tax revenue collection amounting to $314.60 million.;
Revenue from fees, charges, and rent amounting to $311.36 million.;
Revenue from investment returns and savings amounting to $236.28 million.; and
Excess revenue from statutory bodies amounting to $40.49 million.
In terms of expenditure, a total of $5.7 billion is proposed to finance the ministries' and government departments' expenditures as follows:
A total of $2.15 billion to finance staff salaries including wages, allowances, and contribution payments;
A total of $2.14 billion for Recurrent Expenditures;
A total of $350 million for National Development Plan projects; and
The remainder is to finance expenditures under Recognized Expenditure Titles.
Therefore, based on the Revenue and Expenditure Budget kaola stated earlier, the government will incur a budget deficit of approximately $2.53 billion. This deficit projection will be updated from time to time based on the production output of the country's oil and gas, global oil prices, the United States dollar exchange rate, and revenue from the non-oil and gas sector.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola will move on to the budget theme for the country for the Financial Year 2022/2023. The chosen theme is "Empowering Public Welfare Towards a More Resilient Socioeconomy". This theme will focus on four priorities:
- Preserving Public Welfare.;
- Ensuring Food Security.;
- Supporting and Assisting the Private Sector to be Resilient and Sustainable.; and
- Enhancing Human Resource Competency Towards 'Work and Future Ready'.
This theme is designed to ensure that efforts that have been implemented and planned are continued and expanded to further strengthen the socioeconomic resilience of the country so that it is sustainable and inclusive by leveraging the existing competitive advantage and innovative technology. This includes increasing the productivity of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises or MSMEs and subsequently providing employment opportunities for local youths.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Kaola will briefly elucidate the prioroties mentioned one by one including developments and achievements:
Preserving Public Welfare. The government will continue to support towards the economic recovery of the country affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes prioritizing comprehensive public health care. Towards this end, provisions are provided as follows:
A total of $124.52 million for combating the spread of the COVID-19 including increasing the supply of COVID-19 vaccines, enhancing the capacity of the BruHealth Application System, repairing medical equipment and expendable supplies including Antigen Rapid Test, necessities in quarantine centers, and COVID-19 laboratory testing, continuing the provision of Special Allowance to the frontliners, etc.
A total of $55 million for purchasing medicines and $41.5 million for Medical Supplies and Services.
A total of $1.9 million with a Budgetary Estimate of $5.6 million under RKN-11 for projects such as the construction of a new block for the Jubli Perak Sengkurong Health Center and the building of the Emergency Services Building at the Suri Seri Begawan Hospital, Kuala Belait; and
A total of $30 million under the Miscellaneous Services of the Ministry of Finance and Economy for medical treatment services at JPMC, the Brunei Cancer Centre, and the Brunei NeuroScience Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre.
Peace be upon you in espousing the decree by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam on the amendments to the Old Age and Disability Pension (Amendment) Order 2021 and the Disabled Persons (OKU) Order 2021 which ensure fundamental rights and full participation opportunities in society for the disabled group and includes providing allowances to those who are truly eligible.
To synchronize the aid distribution process by the concerned agencies and ensure that there is no leakage to those who are rightfully entitled to aid, the government has expanded the capacity of the National Welfare System (SKN) to enable applicants from the private sector and self-employed/freelancers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic to obtain the necessary aids.
For enhancing the comfort and safety of children needing protection, a total of $200,000 with a Budgetary Estimate of $1.8 million under RKN-11 is allocated for the construction of a new Protection Unit Building, Welfare Complex under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
To improve the welfare and well-being of the less fortunate, the Housing Assistance Program for the needy, destitute and poor will continue through the allocation of Zakat Fund, the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB). Housing assistance under the Community Development Department (JAPĒM), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation.
To maintain public welfare through home ownership, an allocation of $38.8 million with a Budgetary Estimate of $250 million under RKN-11 is for the Residential House Construction Project under the National Housing Scheme in Kampung Lugu and Kampung Tanah Jambu.
To improve the quality of water supply in the country, an allocation of $26.1 million with a Budgetary Estimate of $216.0 million under RKN-11 specifically for the Ministry of Development to carry out construction, upgrading, and replacement of water supply assets.
To ensure reliable and quality electricity services, a total of $44 million with a Budgetary Estimate of $315.7 million under RKN-11 finances the upgrading and maintenance of electrical infrastructure.
To enhance connectivity and open opportunities for socio-economic activities, a total of $20.2 million with a Budgetary Estimate of $169.5 million is provided under RKN-11 specifically for continuing improvement, maintenance, and enhancement of the road network.
Towards efforts in addressing the impact of climate change, a total of $15 million is allocated for natural disaster management such as flood incidents, land slides, etc., and a total of $5.5 million with a Budgetary Estimate of $60.3 million under RKN-11 is provided to carry out several flood mitigation projects.
To preserve the welfare and well-being of civil servants, Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam has decreed the absorption of employees under Open Vote service and daily wages in Division IV and V who meet the criteria into the Permanent Service and will receive all the facilities under the relevant Permanent Service. Starting Financial Year 2022/2023, an allocation has been provided totaling $107.63 million under the Salary of Open Vote and daily wages employees.
Yang Berhormat Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
Kaola express gratitude for the grace of the decree by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Eighteenth Legislative Council Session, on February 24, 2022, relating to the Employees Trust Fund Scheme where the study has been completed by the Ministry of Finance and Economy in cooperation with the Employees Trust Fund (TAP) and full implementation will begin in 2023. In the meantime, His Majesty also emphasized that all preparations before full implementation should be carried out in an organized manner including amendments to the act, changes to the information technology system, and continual fostering of learning. Importantly, those involved in this scheme will understand about the new Retirement Scheme being introduced.
To assist teachers and underprivileged students receiving the Miftaahun Najaah Scheme (SMN) under the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Religious Affairs during the implementation of online teaching initiatives and Home-based Learning, the government has extended aids as follows:
From October and November 2021, monetary assistance of $20.00 per month for each teacher. While for students, data donations pooled by telecommunications companies have been utilized to assist learning with 10 gigabytes every month, whereas the government will pay for the top-up if needed subject to claims from telecommunications companies verified by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Religious Affairs.;
For the school year 2022, the government has leased devices from telecommunications companies for use by teachers and students under SPN.; and
Towards this end, a total of $8.4 million under the Miscellaneous Services of the Ministry of Finance and Economy is allocated to fund the project of supplying laptops and Internet Data for teachers and students under the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Religious Affairs, specifically for students under the SPN Scheme.
Yang Berhormat Di-Pertua and Your Honourable Members.
- Ensuring Food Security. The government will continue to ensure that the food supply in the country is always secure including the intention to achieve self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imports only. At the same time, the country also faces the challenge of increasing global inflation including inflation for food.
At the same time, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Global Food Price Index has recorded that the rate of global food inflation in January 2022 is at 19.5% year over year compared to 3.2% in 2020. The main causes of rising food prices globally include sudden demand following regional and global crises due to affected supply in supplier countries, increased logistics and transportation costs, rising costs of raw materials such as seeds and fertilizers, closure of food production factories due to the pandemic, and extreme weather conditions like dry or continuous rainy seasons affecting harvest yields in supplier countries and subsequently reducing the quantity of imports.
The increase in global food inflation rate which is beyond the control of this country is inevitable and subsequently impacts not only consumers but also entrepreneurs in this country.
Therefore, considering the high rate of food imports of the country at 74%, the high imported inflation from external suppliers has contributed to the increase in goods prices in this country. The food inflation rate in the country for 2021 was 2.4%. Therefore, it is crucial for the country to continue to ensure sufficient food supply by increasing food output domestically towards increasing self-sufficiency (self sufficiency) and reducing reliance on imports.
Therefore, to ensure the country's food supply is always secure including achieving self-sufficiency, several efforts have been and are being implemented in increasing production from agriculture, fisheries, and livestock sectors. PaddyCo Sdn. Bhd., with the Kandol paddy planting project, has successfully expanded the paddy field area from 8.23 hectares in 2019 to 48 hectares in November 2021, and will be further expanded to 173 hectares by the end of this year.
Towards this, a total of $10 million with a Budgetary Estimate of $46 million continues to be provided for the Kandol Paddy Planting Project Phase Two in the Belait District expected to be completed in 2026 with an area of 500 hectares which has the potential to contribute about 11% to 15% toward self-sufficiency, اِنْ شَاءَ ٱللّٰهُ.
In addition, a total of $9 million is also provided under the Paddy Buyback Scheme including for the purchase of hybrid paddy seeds for the use of farmers.
Towards supporting efforts to increase productivity and production in the aquaculture industry, a total of $1.9 million with a Plan Price of $3.8 million is provided under RKN-11 for the development and opening of aquaculture industry sites, implementing the Genetic Development and Selective Breeding Program for Fish to Increase Aquaculture Industry Productivity, Shrimp Farming Industry Phase IV, and the Program to Increase Aquaculture Industry Production.
To increase production and quality in the fisheries sector, several joint-venture companies have been established, including the following:
- Blue Ocean Tech Sendirian Berhad, managing the blue rostris shrimp hatchery and breeding project at Serasa Broodstock Development Centre;
- Jets Sendirian Berhad, managing the blue rostris shrimp farming project at Sungai Paku, Telisai Tutong, and the Sea Farming Site at Pelumpong Aquaculture Site;
- Lianfeng Investment Sendirian Berhad, handling the processing of blue rostris shrimp and seafood at Muara Fish Landing Complex;
- Baramundi Asia (B) Sendirian Berhad began operations in the second quarter of 2021 at a fingerlings farming site using Recirculating Aquaculture System technology at Broodstock Development Centre, Serasa, and a sea juveniles farming site at Pelumpong Aquaculture Site. This company has the potential to produce barramundi with an annual capacity of 3,000 tonnes after the year 2026; and
- Golden Corporation Sendirian Berhad has produced a total of 4,200 tonnes of white shrimp of the vannamei species from the harvest made in 2021. This represents a 150% increase from the year 2020. Thus far, a total of 156 containers of white shrimp have been supplied for the export market.
To support an increase in vegetable output using technology, modern techniques, and to help increase productivity, a total of $5 million with a Plan Price of $30 million has been allocated.
Meanwhile, under the Livestock Sector, a total of $3 million with a Plan Price of $26 million under RKN–11 is allocated to finance the Livestock Industry Development Plan for Generating Production.
Following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, PDS Abattoir Sendirian Berhad has collaborated with the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism in ensuring food security, especially sufficient and stable supply of meat in this country according to local market demand. Throughout 2021, PDS Abattoir Sdn. Bhd. has assisted with 13,885 cattle and 5,681 goats ready for slaughter to cover the shortfall in meat supply in this country.
Towards ensuring food safety and quality in this country, the Brunei Darussalam Food Authority (BDFA) was established on 1 January 2021 as the competent authority aiming to support the functions and roles of BDFA such as the Fresh Meat Order (2011) (Amendment) 2020 and the Public Health (Food) Regulation Chapter 182 (Amendment) 2020, and several laws and regulations are also being amended to further strengthen food safety and quality issues in this country. At the operational level, BDFA carries out routine activities to ensure that food imported into Brunei Darussalam meets food safety requirements, including microbiological and chemical testing for imported meat consignments before being allowed to be sold and safety certification for imported processed food. BDFA also facilitates the development of the local food industry towards meeting export market requirements through inspection of processing premises and issuing necessary certifications such as the Export Health Certificate, Free Sale Certificate for processed food products, and Animal Fat Free Certification starting on 1 October 2021.
To address food inflation issues in this country, the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS) is actively monitoring and enforcing the prices of certain goods. Several amendments have also been made to the Price Control Act (Amendment) Order
2021 Part 142, Price Control (Maximum Prices and Charges) (Amendment) Order, 2021, and Price Control (Minimum Price and Charges) (Repeal) Order, 2021. These amendments, among others, aim to allow relevant information to be obtained from suppliers for the monitoring of prices of certain essential goods as input for policy use and enforcement of price controls. Besides the continuous price control of several types of food, DEPS also uploads market prices for more than 100 food and non-food products to the Smart Consumer application weekly to provide the public with price comparisons.
Your Honourable Chairperson and Your Honourable Members
Supporting and Assisting the Private Sector to be Resilient and Prosperous. Following the outbreak of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government will continue to provide necessary support and attention to business premises and private sector workers affected by implemented measures as follows:
- Postponement of payment (or deferment) on TAP and SCP contributions for local workers earning $1,500 a month and below
- Payment of a 25% wage subsidy to local workers under the Microcredit and Small Business Enterprises (MSBEs) that employ not more than 100 individuals from 1 August to 31 December 2021.;
- Financing of SCP contributions for the self-employed from August 2021 to December 2021 to assist those affected by the pandemic and ensure they have continuous coverage of the Survivorship Fund.;
- Financial assistance starting 1 September 2021 for a three-month period was provided to three groups of private sector workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic including those who lost jobs, those who were unpaid leave for more than seven days, and the self-employed (self-employed or freelance).;
- Providing at least a 30% discount on government building rental rates to MSBEs affected. This is to help reduce operating costs for the concerned entrepreneurs.;
- Offering a 50% tax discount on corporate income tax for the assessment year 2022 to affected sectors.;
- Granting a 20% discount for water and electricity bills for affected companies.;
- Temporary exemption from custom duty and excise duty for Personal Hygiene products until 31 December 2021.;
- Providing a reduction in current and annual Building Tax by a maximum of 50% for a period of 5 months starting from 1 August 2021 to 31 December 2021 to building owners who reduce monthly rent to tenants, under the control of the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board, Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Board, and Tutong Municipal Board.;
To assist in expanding Microcredit and Small Business Enterprises (MSBEs), several initiatives have been implemented as follows:
- The Industry Business Academy, Accelerate, and Micro Bootcamp programs organized by Darussalam Enterprise will continue to provide entrepreneurship training to over 10,000 participants. These programs have successfully generated around 241 startups and 956 jobs compared to 609 vacancies in 2020. Through these programs, local and regional angel investors have collectively invested 2.2 million in 23 startups. Furthermore, Darussalam Enterprise has assisted 31 companies in obtaining international standard certifications and 7 companies in exporting their products and services to foreign markets. A total of 199 companies have undergone training related to Standards.;
- The Retail Entrepreneurship Program launched on 6 April 2021 by Ghanim International Corporation Sendirian Berhad, a company under Darussalam Assets Sendirian Berhad, is a government initiative to encourage local participation in the retail industry and pave the way for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) products to reach their target. Ghanim International Corporation Sendirian Berhad also acts as a facilitator to promote young local entrepreneurs as managers in operating the ‘The Junction’ franchise. The program operates in the Armada Tungku Estate residential area at BIBD Connect Kampung Perpindahan Lambak Kanan and at the Mentiri Community Hall, and so far, 3 young local entrepreneurs have qualified for the program.;
- Regarding the I-Usahawan Program introduced on 1 August 2018, a total of 39 contracts in the energy sector have been awarded, with 22 of them already awarded to 34 young small entrepreneurs with an estimated contract value of $30 million. These young entrepreneurs have also successfully created 317 job opportunities for local youths.; and
- Souq Al Qudwah is an initiative by Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Affairs to develop entrepreneurship skills among registered converts and the underprivileged at the Islamic Da'wah Centre. The program aims to create awareness, promote products, generate income to be financially independent, and break the cycle of poverty while reducing dependence on zakat assistance. The expo has been participated in by 23 vendors and involved approximately 100 individuals.
Towards encouraging private sector organizations or industries to contribute to economic diversification, several allocations have been provided including:
For the National Enterprise and Industrial Development Sector, a total of $3.8 million with a Plan Price of 20 Million is allocated under the 11th RKN for the Construction Project of a Flyover at the Muara-Tutong Highway Intersection and the placement of the Tanjong Kajar Industrial Site.
Towards enhancing the development of the private sector, a total of $1 million with a Plan Price of $5.4 million under the 11th RKN plan is allocated for the improvement and upgrading of basic utilities in industrial and commercial site areas.
Darussalam Enterprises also plays a role in developing the SMEs while helping to provide basic infrastructure at industrial sites under the said party. Towards this, Darussalam Enterprise has allocated a total of $23 million for the improvement and upgrading projects of infrastructures at identified industrial sites, expected to start in March 2022 for a period of two years.
As we are aware, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation process by emphasizing the importance of equipping industries and the community with skills and knowledge suitable for the transition into the digital economy era. Therefore, among the efforts to support this priority include:
Launching of the Human Resource Management System, the Prime Minister's Department has been integrated with the e-Payroll System in cooperation at the Ministry of Finance and Economy;
Implementation of the Exit and Entry System (EES), the Royal Customs and Excise Department has successfully collected a total of $945,000.00 starting from October 2020 until January 2022;
One Common Billing System (OCBS) Treasury Department that began being used in January 2020 and its use has been expanded to several government departments. The use of OCBS has also been partially expanded for the Judiciary Department, Brunei Intellectual Property Office (BruIPO) under the Attorney General's Office and the Ministry of Health for payment of COVID-19 swab tests and clinic charges through the BruHealth app, and the concerned department only uses online payment methods through credit or debit cards;
The e-Census Project, the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics has supported the handling of the Population and Housing Census (BPP) 2021 online and the Preliminary Report on the Total Population of Brunei Darussalam has also been used by government agencies such as the Ministry of Health for the National Vaccination Program in controlling the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic; and
Coding.bn under the initiative of Authority for Infocommunications Technology Industry (AITI) which is supported by Manpower Industry Steering Committee Working Group for the ICT sector to train local youth candidates in coding programs according to global industry standards.
Towards supporting priority under Digital Economy Master Plan 2025, UNN has expedited the Single Radio Access Network (5-RAVN) Program with the implementation of up to 80% coverage across the country. This means the network infrastructure is "5G ready" and prepared for the implementation of 5G in the future.
Brunei Darussalam has also improved mobile network speeds and achieved first place among ASEAN countries and 17th place worldwide based on the Speed Test Global Index. In addition, following the establishment of the Defense Cyber center in August 2020, UNN has also successfully launched Tier 3 Data Center Co-Location services and Cloud Hosting services in late 2021 in line with digital initiatives to support Brunei Vision 2035.
Towards supporting this goal, especially in strengthening the effectiveness of government services in supporting the needs of the private sector to create a more conducive and effective business environment, some provisions have been made among others:
A total of $13.2 million with a Plan Price of $75.9 million under the Information Technology and Communications sector under RKN-11 will continue to be provided, including the Halal Certification System project, national business service platform, and electronic building tax; and
A total of $87.4 million for Information Technology Allocations under the Recurrent Expenditures of all ministries for IT Central Procurement and software licenses for all ministries and departments.
Taking into account the importance of diversifying the country's economy, the government will continue to attract more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) while generating economic activity spin-offs from various aspects including knowledge and technology transfer, business opportunities for SMEs, and employment opportunities for local youth. To date, there are several new FDI projects in the implementation phase expected to commence operations between 2022 and 2026.
The government will also continue to support efforts in enhancing economic cooperation with international trading partners with the aim of increasing market access opportunities and opening more export market networks to assist local businesses in exporting to foreign markets. Among the efforts implemented through the signing of agreements include:
Ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, which is the world's largest Free Trade Agreement, effective from January 1, 2022. It is intended to be utilized by expanding and including economic relationships among Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) partners. In addition to providing new opportunities for entrepreneurs and traders in Brunei Darussalam, especially in terms of market access and investment opportunities. To increase understanding of the opportunities and methods that can be directed and also the capacities of local companies in using this Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, the Ministry of Finance and Economy will be organizing briefing sessions with the private sector in the near future;
The Agreement For The Avoidance Of Double Taxation And The Prevention of Fiscal Evasion With Respect To Taxes On Income friendly public of the Philippines. Through this agreement, both countries will be able to further enhance economic cooperation, investment, and trade including facilitating the exchange of information on tax issues;
Meanwhile, she calls for local enterprises to seize business and investment opportunities with the opening of greater market access through the signing of these agreements.
Furthermore, attention will also continue to be given to improving the capabilities of logistics and transportation services to support the supply chain of essential and critical goods being received by consumers in the required period and in perfect condition. Among the initiatives implemented to support efforts under this priority include:
The signing between Brunei International Air Cargo Centre Sdn. Bhd. (BIACC) together with the Brunei Darussalam Maritime and Port Authority (MPABD) for the Lease Agreement, Operation Management, and Maintenance of the Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Sungai Tujuh and Kuala Lurah. Through the signing, various handling services and facilities will be offered, which will benefit operators in logistics as well as the transportation chain on both sides of the border; and
The Muara Port development project aiming to increase the existing container terminal capacity from 220 thousand TEUs per year to 500 thousand TEUs/year by 2025. Construction works, بِسْمِ اللَّهِ will begin in the first quarter of 2023. This project is an initiative and commitment by Muara Port Company Sendirian Berhad (MPC) to make Muara Port a world standard International Hub to facilitate the growth of the manufacturing and logistics industry in this country.
Your Honourable President and Your Honourable Members.
Enhancing Human Resource Competence Towards Work and Future Ready. The focus is on ensuring the country's education system is always relevant so that the current and future generations will continue to possess high skills, be flexible, innovative, future ready, creative, and adaptable in line with the rapid advancements in various fields in the local job market, especially in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
As part of the government’s efforts to further enhance the country’s economic development, through the development of local SMEs and attracting more FDI, the government will continue to provide courses and training through various agencies such as Darussalam Enterprise, Manpower Planning and Employment Council, and the Ministry of Education, including on-the-job training programs such as the i-Ready program for local workers to enhance self-capacity and seize new employment opportunities.
Additionally, the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC) through the MPEC secretariat has implemented studies related to manpower forecasting to ensure the programs and courses conducted and provided are in line with the industry's needs specifically for Foreign Direct Investment companies.
At the same time, the Manpower Industry Steering Committee (MISC) has been established as a platform to support the MPEC vision in aligning manpower planning with the employability of local youth to obtain sustainable and gainful employment. MISC will coordinate between the industry, educational institutions, and training institutions towards meeting industry demand and ensuring an adequate supply of human resources at the right time.
The five sectors currently being researched by MISC include the Energy, Construction, Hospitality and Tourism, ICT, and Transportation and Logistics sectors. MISC, along with the MPEC Secretariat, have gathered and studied employment opportunities (critical occupations), including the types and numbers of existing jobs and the workforce projection for the next five years in each sector. Critical occupation refers to the kinds of positions highly required by the industry and are also identified as suitable to be filled by local children. Moreover, competency standards or frameworks, as well as training curriculums for critical occupations identified in the respective sectors, will be developed based on industry needs and requirements, producing several new skills programs for implementation. Among the implemented programs are the Dual Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Program and the Architect Mechanical Electrical Civil and Structural (ARMECS) Bridging Programme to provide skills training in line with construction sector requirements.
Additionally, ongoing cooperation with the Ministry of Education will continue. This is to ensure that education and skills training can be standardized and provided either by government educational institutions or private educational institutions.
Regarding the information on workforce projection and the competencies required, the MPEC Secretariat will also continue to cooperate with the Ministry of Education to enable the provision and updating of suitable curriculums to ensure that the training conducted enables local children to occupy the identified positions through the aforementioned projections.
Furthermore, for upskilling and reskilling programs like SkillsPlus, it is hoped to help local children in somewhat reducing the gap required to carry out a job.
Kaola is pleased to announce some initiatives currently being implemented to support these efforts as follows:
The establishment of the Faculty of Agriculture at Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA), with an allocation of $9 million, will be provided under Ancillary Services to fund improvements and upgrades to the UNISSA campus buildings in Kampung Sinaut, Tutong District;
The Agrotechnology Program offered by Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) aims to provide the required knowledge in the fields of agribusiness, and traditional and modern agriculture.; and
Several significant achievements have been achieved by higher education institutions among them:
UTB was awarded the 5-plus stars for excellence by QS;
UBD ranked 69th in Asia according to the QS Asia University Rankings 2022 and 250th in the QS World University Rankings 2022; and
UNISSA was awarded the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) for the third consecutive time.
To enhance graduates' opportunities to obtain employment immediately after graduation, several initiatives have been implemented, such as:
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Unified National Networks Sdn. Bhd. (UNN) and the Brunei Technical Education Institute (IBTE) for the UNN Apprenticeship Program. Since 2020, UNN has taken 25 students from IBTE and Politeknik Brunei to undergo the apprenticeship program. All of them completed the apprenticeship program in 2021. A new cohort will begin, in 2023 for one year.; and
Hengyi Industries Sdn. Bhd. has also offered scholarship schemes and in-service trainings for local staff, including the following:
A total of 138 students from UBD were awarded scholarships, an increase of 35 students in Process and Chemical Engineering jointly with UBD and Zhejiang University, which also includes an industrial training at the Zhejiang Hengyi Petrochemical Company Limited in the People's Republic of China for 6 months.;
A total of 241 students from the Brunei Technical Education Institute (IBTE) were awarded scholarships in Chemical Engineering in collaboration with Lanzhou Petrochemical Polytechnic College (LPP), People's Republic of China.;
A total of 242 students from Politeknik Brunei are pursuing a Level 5 Diploma at Lanzhou Petrochemical Polytechnic College (LPP), People's Republic of China, in fields like Laboratory Technology, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Equipment Technology, Power Plant and Power System, Storage and Transportation Technology, Thermal Power Plant Technology, and Water Treatment Technology. These students will be offered jobs with Hengyi Industries Sdn. Bhd. once they successfully complete their studies. So far, 111 graduates from UBD and IBTE have started working with Hengyi Industries Sdn. Bhd. Currently, 551 local children are also serving in Hengyi Industries Sdn. Bhd. in various positions.
Further, other implemented initiatives are as follows:
The Study in Professional Institution (SPIN) in Accountancy program under MPEC is a collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Economy and the Brunei Darussalam Institute of Chartered Public Accountants (BICPA) aimed at developing and enhancing a professional group in the relevant sector. Currently, 104 participants have been awarded payments under this program, guided by 25 professional mentors; and
The Orphan Scholarship Programme discussed jointly by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and the BIBD ALAF Programme will begin in the 2022 school year. The programme is intended to support educational initiatives as a primary way to ensure poverty skills.
Therefore, to further enhance efforts towards supporting the aspirations under this leadership, several allocations have been provided to elevate the quality and achievements of national education standards. Several provisions will continue to be provided as follows:
Scholarship Allocation provided a total of $40.1 million under the supervision of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Religious Affairs to provide opportunities for students to study at top higher education institutions worldwide.;
An Assistance Program Allocation of $1.5 million will continue to be provided to manage the Miftaahun Najaah Scheme to alleviate the burden on less capable parents and guardians in purchasing student school necessities.;
An Educational Services Allocation of $47 million to fund the hiring of experts and teaching staff, including CfBT, to improve students' achievement levels across the country.;
Under the 11th NDP, overall provisions amount to $38 million with a Plan Value of $235 million will continue to be provided to supply infrastructure for primary, secondary and religious schools, and higher education institutions.; and
To develop public service capacity and capabilities, a total allocation of $37.5 million is provided under Skill and Capacity Improvement provisions in ministries.
In an effort to enhance human capital development, while ensuring preparedness and responsiveness towards digital transformation and innovation, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, in a speech marking His Majesty’s 75th Birthday on July 15, 2021, granted permissions for the establishment of the Council for Research and The Advancement of Technology and Sciences (CREATES) under the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunication as a new platform to promote activities related to science, technology, and innovation, thus supporting the overall research and development activities in the country.
In line with efforts to advance research activities in the country, several provisions have been provided, including $1.9 million to fund research projects to be carried out by higher education institutions under the Ministry of Education. In addition, $10.7 million with a Plan Value of $66 million is also provided under the Science and Technology, Research and Development, and Innovation Sector of the 11th National Development Plan (NDP).
Besides the provisions mentioned above, the government also provides an allocation of $27.5 million under the Special Focus Projects to fund programs or projects aimed at supporting the national budget focus and an estimated $108.7 million under Special Ancillary Projects to support the funding or implementation of unforeseen projects.
Your Honourable Chair and Your Honourable Members.
In a global economy still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, the government will continue to implement initiatives and provide national development planning that can generate economic growth and ensure the welfare, well-being, and safety of the citizens and residents of this country, as partly presented earlier.
In this regard, Government-Linked Companies (GLC's) also play a crucial role in supporting the budget focus, especially in strengthening the private sector to contribute to the economic development of the country. Therefore, several government initiatives have been implemented through the involvement of Government-Linked Companies (GLC's) and cooperation with Foreign Direct Investments (FDI). Through Darussalam Assets, GLCs are ensured and monitored to have a suitable corporate governance code of conduct, ensuring a sustainable commercial model, accurate financial reporting, and effective risk management. Through Strategic Development Capital (SDC), cooperation with FDI is also crucial as FDI acts as a technical partner, providing technology and access to international and regional markets for products and services. This initiative aims to provide the country with increased economic activity and offer services and infrastructure to the country and its citizens, as well as employment opportunities for local children.
Kaola also calls for both the public and private sectors to continue to work together in further diversifying economic activities, enhancing the implementation of projects through Public-Private Partnerships, and increasing efforts to attract more Foreign Direct Investment, in order to boost the country's productivity and improve more employment opportunities for the local youth. These efforts are crucial in reducing dependency on the government for the fiscal sustainability of the country so that the prosperity and well-being we enjoy today will continue and be enjoyed by future generations.
Your Honourable Speaker and Your Honourable Members.
Before kaola concludes this presentation, let us pray together that our country will always advance in peace and prosperity under the leadership of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam and with the permission of أَعُوْذُ بِاَللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ will always be a Zikir Country with abundant blessings under the protection of أَعُوْذُ بِاَللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ.
Kaola proposes that the Bill presented before us be supported to become a "State Supply Act Issued From the Consolidated Fund Allocation for specific purposes, throughout the Financial Year 2022/2023".
Thank you, وَبِاللَّهِ التَّوْفِيْقُ وَالْهِدَايَةُ، وَالسَّلاَمُ وَالسَّلَامَةُ وَخَيْرُ الْعَاقِبَةِ
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Thank you. Your Honourable Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy for the comprehensive and well-organized presentation on the plans and directions of the country's financial allocations for the Financial Year 2022/2023. Would any Honourable Member like to support the Supply Bill (2022), 2022/2023 presented earlier?
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَنِ الرَّحِيْمِ، مُعَزِّزَاً وَمُكَرِّمَاً بِشَأْنِهِ I fully support the Supply Bill (2022), 2022/2023 proposed by Your Honourable Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy. Thank you, Your Honourable Speaker.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. The Bill titled: "An Act To Appropriate A Certain Amount Of Money From The Consolidated Fund for the services of the Financial Year 2022/2023, to allocate that money for certain purposes" has been extensively presented in an orderly and comprehensive manner by Your Honourable Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy and has received support from Your Honourable Minister of Home Affairs.
The Bill has been presented clearly, along with its reasons and objectives by Your Honourable Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy. I think it is time for us to give the opportunity to Your Honourable Members who wish to ask questions or to debate this Bill.
However, I would like to remind that this debate should focus only on the fundamentals and essence. Let the discussions, statements be brief, clear, and directly on point.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ الحَمْدُلِلّٰهِ رَبِّ العَالَمِينَ وَبِهِ نَسْتَعِينَ اَللّٰهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى سَيِّدِنَا مُحَمَّدٍ
Your Honourable Speaker, kaola presents under Title SA09A – Department of Information. Kaola cites the royal address by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of celebrating the 38th National Day in 2022, which states:
"...by celebrating National Day, we can remember and appreciate the value of independence and honor the sacrifices of those who worked hard for freedom. Accordingly, this independence should be preserved by all citizens and residents with high patriotic spirit, as a precious legacy inscribed by generation after generation...".
Kaola would like to propose more proactive and comprehensive efforts towards a higher level of national patriotism.
Following under Title SA10A – Public Service Department. If it is not a breach of promotion procedure in the public sector, it is recommended that the Public Service Department encourages department heads and section heads to support promotion for officers who have been serving for 15 years showing good performance and also support staff in Division V to Division IV.
For example, Division V staff who have served for 20 years due to insufficient education are not promoted to Division IV, even though they are highly skilled in their profession. Therefore, skill and experience should also be considered alongside education alone.
Thank you. Your Honourable Speaker.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Speaker I call upon Your Honourable Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad.
Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad
Thank you. Your Honourable Speaker.
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ الحَمْدُ ِللهِ رَبِّ العَالَمِين I fully support the Supply Bill (2022), 2022/2023 presented by Your Honourable Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy earlier.
I just want to touch upon one matter that might not have received special attention, which is the development of sports. The country has proven capable of organizing sports events not only at the national level like swimming, netball, basketball, and football but also at regional levels such as the SEA Games, Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy, and others, including non-conventional sports. The involvement in sports has proven to help reduce our dependency on health expenditure to address non-communicable diseases and mental health, for example.
Sports as a Social Development Program requires community groups' assistance, such as uncontrolled children, the elderly, and community at grassroots level. Lastly, sports can unite our community just as we united in successfully hosting the Sea Games 1999.
In the Financial Year 2021/2022 shared by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports during a briefing a few days ago. Most of the allocation is for the standardization and maintenance of sports infrastructures in addition to the salaries of the staff.
In conclusion, I believe we need to focus our spending appropriately to build a more comprehensive national ecosystem, the positive impact of which can be seen not only in terms of infrastructure but also in the need to enhance athlete development programs from under-12 to senior levels.
Developing Sports Schools and sports in educational institutions like one sport one student initiative, sports scholarships, and academic support at higher education levels, as well as the sports industry as a career for all parties. Care for athletes and former athletes, sports hosting, and sports tourism as activities generating national revenue and other related matters.
This is an additional value to the matter discussed. Thank you, Your Honourable Speaker.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Fdr. Ar. Dayang Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Awang Haji Abdul Rahman, please proceed.
Yang Berhormat Fdr. Ar. Dayang Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ Thank you, Your Honourable Speaker. I also fully support the Supply Bill (2022), 2022/2023 presented by Your Honourable Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy.
Highest appreciation to the Government of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam who always looks after the needs of its people especially when the country was significantly impacted during the first wave, second wave, and also now the third phase.
As we struggle with the increasingly severe pandemic challenge managed, even though our country experiences a deficit, the government still strives to ensure the welfare and well-being of its people to date by providing a Special Allocation of $124.52 million this year compared to $20 million last year.
Congratulations also to the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism for the significant contribution from sectors under the ministry's control in the country's GDP approach in 2022, which is 1.4 through agriculture, forestry, and also fisheries. Although the country is still facing economic challenges due to the pandemic's impact at this time, we are still able to withstand and increase efforts to ensure GDP in a satisfactory condition.
Regarding the development of the National Development Plan, in the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, as shared through the decree of Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam on the roadmap of National Development Plan previously shared, however, I would like to draw the attention of this noble chamber to the 11th National Development Plan, its implementation has not been as hoped, starting from the year 2018 to 2020 the expenditure of the National Development Plan was only utilized by 29%. It seems the progress of the 11th National Development Plan is very slow compared to the targets we aim to achieve in the last year of the 11th National Development Plan. As has been shared in the Fiscal Year 2021/2022, there are 189 National Development Plan projects and 20 of them have already been completed, 13 of these projects were postponed from the 10th National Development Plan. Will a number of these projects in the 11th National Development Plan be brought forward to be implemented together with the 12th National Development Plan?
In addition, I also suggest that a mid-term review can be carried out on the National Development Plan projects to monitor and ensure that every year the National Development Plan projects will achieve their targets.
That is all from me, I hope this matter can be given deeper attention and become an added value in our discussion. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. With the statements that have been made earlier in presenting the Bill concerning it seems that some of Your Honourable Members are a bit out of steam.
Therefore, I propose it might be best if we postpone our meeting for now and perhaps we can digest more deeply what has been presented by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II. With that, I adjourn this meeting and we will meet again, God willing, this afternoon at 2:30 PM.
Thank you
(The meeting was adjourned)
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website, you may be able to link to other websites which are not under our control. We have no control over the nature, content, and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, we take no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control.