Transparency, Accountability Needed," Legislators Urge in Brunei Council Session
"Debates, Budgets, and Brunei’s Future: Inside Yesterday’s Crucial Legislative Session"
Discover how legislators tackled pressing issues—from public safety and employment to budget transparency - that directly impact your community's daily life.
By Malai Hassan Othman
Bandar Seri Begawan, March 13, 2025—Brunei’s Legislative Council convened yesterday to discuss critical community and economic issues, including education, infrastructure, public cleanliness, and budget allocations.
Legislators emphasized the need for transparency, clear accountability, and consideration of community impacts in policy implementation.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin raised concerns about training gaps among mosque officials, who often lack financial literacy, emergency preparedness, and public interaction skills - factors that could compromise community trust and the effectiveness of mosques.
Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Dato Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin, assured the council that comprehensive training programs covering financial management, first aid, and fire safety are actively being implemented.
He explained, "Pegawai masjid yang baru dilantik juga diberikan taklimat sebelum diaturkan bertugas di masjid-masjid."
Addressing workforce issues, Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin highlighted underemployment among Arabic language and religious studies graduates, noting that their skills are not fully utilized.
The government responded by announcing a Professional Certificate Program for Hajj and Umrah guides (Mutawwif), starting in 2025/2026, which will create direct employment pathways.
"Program Sijil Latihan Profesional Haji dan Umrah akan menjadi nilai tambah penting kepada graduan KUPUSB," the minister assured.
Public safety concerns, particularly repeated accidents on the Muara-Tutong Highway, were extensively discussed. Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya’akub called for urgent interventions, citing, "36 kemalangan dicatatkan dalam tempoh 2020 hingga awal tahun 2025 di kawasan ini."
The Minister of Development committed to immediate measures, including improved road signage, enhanced lighting, and additional safety barriers to potentially reduce accidents and enhance public confidence.
Shifting from road safety to environmental concerns, Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Daud bin Jihan questioned the effectiveness of current waste management strategies.
Persistent illegal dumping, despite enforcement measures, continues to frustrate the community and poses health hazards. In 2024 alone, 442 illegal dumping cases were addressed, generating fines totalling BND 272,900.
Legislators urged stronger preventative measures and greater public awareness campaigns to address the root causes of unlawful dumping effectively.
Economic development emerged as another key topic, notably Brunei’s participation in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
This agreement significantly boosted exports from BND 1.9 billion in 2023 to USD 2.5 billion in 2024, potentially strengthening the nation’s economic resilience and creating new opportunities for local businesses and employment.
Legislators also discussed budget allocations aimed at improving local governance and community life.
The management of municipal authority received BND 5 million, of which BND 200,000 was dedicated to regulatory compliance and enforcement, directly impacting local market order and public service efficiency.
The Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Board's allocation of BND 6.8 million targets urban revitalization, community engagement, and social welfare improvements, underscoring a strategic approach to balanced urban development.
The Kampong Ayer tourism project has a total allocated budget of BND 5.78 million, of which BND 734,600 is specifically set aside for expenditure during the fiscal year 2025/2026, generating cautious optimism.
Council members acknowledged its potential economic impact through increased tourism but stressed the necessity of effective implementation to maximize benefits for local communities.
Finally, disaster management was also addressed, highlighting the government's success in mitigating flood incidents through road elevation projects.
However, legislators emphasized the ongoing need for clear, proactive disaster response strategies, especially during monsoon seasons, to ensure consistent public safety.
Overall, yesterday's Legislative Council session underscored Brunei’s ongoing challenge of balancing ambitious development goals with practical financial management, emphasizing the necessity for clear policies, adequate resource allocation, and sustained community engagement. (MHO/03/2025)
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