Public Concerns Emerge Over Government’s Digitalization Efforts

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Brunei's ambitious digitalization drive has faced several challenges, leading to public concerns about the efficiency and effectiveness of the government's efforts. Recent issues with critical systems such as the Exit and Entry System (EES) and the Treasury Accounting and Financial Information System 2.0 (TAFIS 2.0) have prompted discussions among citizens.

 

The EES, intended to streamline immigration, customs, and excise processes, has experienced outages and inefficiencies. The latest system failure resulted in long queues at border points, causing delays and inconvenience. Some travelers expressed frustration, noting that these issues impact both time and money.

 

TAFIS 2.0, launched to modernize financial management, has also encountered implementation challenges, resulting in payment delays. The Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) has responded by setting up clinics to address outstanding claims and assisting vendors with the Government Vendor Portal (GVP) registration.

 

The Universal Smart Metering System (USMS) for electrical and water online recharges has similarly faced user-reported issues, adding to the concerns about the reliability of Brunei’s digital services.

 

There have been public discussions about the processes for awarding digital projects, with some citizens expressing concerns about transparency and accountability. Ensuring a transparent and efficient procurement process is essential for the success of digital initiatives.

 

Brunei’s digitalization efforts are part of a broader vision to diversify the economy and modernize public services. Addressing the current challenges and incorporating public feedback can help enhance the credibility and effectiveness of these initiatives.