His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam underscored key reforms to strengthening governance, expanding healthcare access and accelerating economic diversification.
In a titah at the opening of the 21st Legislative Council (LegCo) Session, His Majesty consented Ministry of Health to update the existing service charge policy for Permanent Residents without citizenship (stateless), granting them access to healthcare services like those provided to citizens of Brunei Darussalam.
The monarch also expressed appreciation for LegCo members’ dedication to advancing the country’s development agenda, emphasising their role in considering key policies and ensuring they yield positive impacts on the people’s well-being.
“It is the role of the members to deliberate on key matters, including providing feedback on every government policy to ensure it genuinely creates a positive impact on the well-being of the people,” His Majesty stated.
In line with improving the council’s effectiveness, His Majesty announced an increase in the frequency of its meetings to twice a year, effective this year.
This decision also includes updates to procedural workflows under the Standing Orders, ensuring that council members can execute their duties efficiently. Additionally, the Sultan emphasised the need for a Code of Ethics for LegCo Members to uphold integrity and professionalism in their roles.
On the economy, His Majesty highlighted Brunei’s progress in diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas. The monarch noted a significant contribution from the non-oil and gas sector to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which has grown at an average annual rate of 4.3 per cent between 2017 and 2023.
“This increase has contributed to the rise in national exports, including the export of new products and market penetration into new destinations such as Chile, Mozambique, Peru and Mexico,” said His Majesty.
A key highlight was the rapid expansion of Brunei’s downstream oil and gas sector, which saw its GDP contribution increase from $136 million in 2017 to $1.24 billion in 2023.
The petrochemical industry, petroleum production, methanol and urea, were identified as primary drivers of this growth. Meanwhile, the services sector also expanded from $1.485 billion in 2017 to $1.721 billion in 2023, supported by growth in trade and business services.
Looking forward, His Majesty reaffirmed the country’s commitment to driving economic growth through new initiatives such as the production of Petroleum Intermediate Derivatives, positioning Brunei as a regional hub for the chemical sector and exploring energy transition opportunities for a sustainable future.
At the micro level, His Majesty’s government will continue efforts to stimulate economic and tourism activities, benefiting local businesses. However, the Sultan cautioned against over-reliance on oil and gas, urging continuous transformation across key sectors such as agriculture, transportation, education, health, tourism, security, public services and emerging industries.
On technological advancements, His Majesty acknowledged the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and stressed the need to enhance human resources and national capabilities to remain competitive in an evolving global landscape.
“The journey towards Brunei Vision 2035 requires cooperation, innovation, and a strong spirit from all parties,” His Majesty emphasised, calling on the council to approach discussions with honesty, creativity, and strategic vision towards achieving a brilliant future for the nation.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
