An online discussion forum has shed light on the concerns and aspirations of Bruneians regarding the future of their country, as the nation navigates economic challenges and pursues its ambitious national development plan, Wawasan 2035.
Participants engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue, discussing the impact of the oil and gas industry, rising costs of living, and the appeal of overseas job opportunities.
Oil and Gas Reliance Raises Concerns
Brunei's dependence on oil and gas as the main source of income has been a topic of concern for participants. The non-renewal of contracts with major energy companies and the potential decline in demand for fossil fuels have led to uncertainty about the nation's economic future.
Many forum members questioned whether Brunei could achieve its Wawasan 2035 development goals without diversifying its economy beyond the energy sector.
Rising Costs and Income Disparities
The rising cost of living in Brunei has also been a major concern. Many participants noted that while prices of goods are increasing, salaries have remained stagnant. This disparity has sparked frustration and led some participants to question the sustainability of the current economic model.
Youth Perspectives and Employment Challenges
Younger participants voiced their concerns over limited job opportunities and challenges in securing well-paying jobs despite higher qualifications. Some participants expressed disappointment that their educational achievements did not necessarily translate into promising employment prospects within Brunei.
The minimum wage for certain sectors, such as IT and finance, also drew criticism as inadequate.
Desire to Work Overseas
The allure of better job opportunities, higher salaries, and increased exposure abroad was a recurring theme in the discussion. However, participants also highlighted the challenges of finding employment overseas, including visa requirements, language barriers, and cultural adjustments.
Several shared their experiences of attempting to secure jobs abroad and the difficulties they encountered during the process.
Realistic Views of Overseas Opportunities
Forum members who have already moved overseas shared both positive and negative aspects of working abroad. They emphasized the need for language skills, relevant experience, and qualifications to compete in competitive job markets. Additionally, participants discussed the financial implications of moving abroad, including cost of living and taxation considerations.
Impact of COVID-19 and Economic Recovery
The ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were not overlooked, as participants acknowledged the challenges it brought to businesses, job markets, and economic recovery efforts. Many shared their personal experiences of job loss and the difficulties in finding new employment opportunities during the pandemic.
Local vs. Overseas Job Prospects
While some emphasized the importance of contributing to Brunei's development and remaining part of the solution, others advocated for seeking international experience and employment opportunities overseas. The tension between contributing locally and pursuing global exposure was evident throughout the discussion.
Skills and Attitude for Employability
The significance of possessing relevant skills and a positive attitude for employability resonated with participants. Success stories were shared, where individuals started with low-paying jobs and worked their way up through dedication and perseverance.
Brain Drain and Government Policies
The potential brain drain from Brunei due to skilled individuals seeking opportunities overseas was a prominent concern. Participants called for government policies that address economic challenges, such as diversification, education enhancements, and measures to retain talent within the country.
Conclusion
As the discussion forum highlighted the diverse perspectives and opinions on Brunei's future, it showcased the complexities of economic challenges, employment prospects, and personal aspirations faced by its citizens. As the nation strives to navigate these complexities, it remains to be seen how Brunei will address these concerns and chart a path forward toward its development goals. (MHO/08/23)
