In a recent address at the Radisson Hotel, Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, highlighted the significance of Brunei’s Economic Blueprint in achieving Wawasan 2035.
He underscored Goal 3, which emphasises five key sectors—downstream oil and gas, food, tourism, services, and ICT—and identified six aspirations including good governance.
This call to action provides a timely opportunity to explore the role of Participatory Public Governance (PPG) within the context of Brunei’s Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) principles.
Understanding Participatory Public Governance
Participatory Public Governance (PPG) is a governance model that emphasises the involvement of citizens in decision-making processes. It goes beyond traditional top-down approaches by fostering collaboration between the government and its citizens, ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. PPG empowers citizens to actively participate in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies and programs that affect their lives.
The Necessity of PPG in Brunei
1. Enhancing Good Governance:
PPG is critical for enhancing transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in government. It allows for diverse voices to be heard, ensuring that policies are reflective of the people’s needs and aspirations.
2. Fostering Economic Growth:
By involving citizens in decision-making processes, PPG can lead to more informed and effective policies that drive economic growth. This aligns with Brunei’s focus on productive businesses, skilled individuals, and a globally connected economy.
3. Building Trust and Social Cohesion:
Active citizen participation builds trust between the government and its people, fostering social cohesion and unity. This is essential for achieving sustainable development goals and the aspirations of Wawasan 2035.
Implementing PPG within Brunei's MIB Framework
Brunei’s unique governance system, deeply rooted in Malay Islamic Monarchy principles, can potentially integrate PPG while preserving its cultural and religious values. The following steps might help achieve this integration:
1. Establish Citizen Councils:
Forming citizen councils at various administrative levels could gather input and feedback on government policies and programs. These councils can represent different segments of society, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered.
2. Promote Open Dialogues:
Encouraging open dialogues between government officials and citizens through forums, town hall meetings, and digital platforms might serve as spaces for discussing issues, proposing solutions, and sharing information.
3. Enhance Civic Education:
Implementing civic education programs could raise awareness about the importance of citizen participation and equip citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to engage effectively in governance processes.
4. Leverage Technology:
Utilizing digital tools and platforms might facilitate citizen engagement, streamline feedback processes, and enhance transparency. E-governance initiatives can make it easier for citizens to access information and participate in decision-making.
Reflecting on the Legacy of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien
Al Marhum Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, the 28th Sultan of Brunei, reigning from 1950 until his abdication in 1967, was a visionary leader known for his contributions to participatory governance. He created the MIB philosophy, which remains the guiding ideology of Brunei. His reign was marked by a commitment to the welfare of the people and the promotion of inclusive governance.
Examining the Syair Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei
The "Syair Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei", or the Brunei State Constitution Syair, is one of the greatest literary works in the history of the 1959 Constitution. Written by Al Marhum Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien (SOAS), this poetic work reflects his vision for a just and participatory governance system. It emphasises justice, inclusivity, and the importance of adhering to the principles of MIB.
Inclusivity and Consultation
“Semua rakyat menyambut cadangan,
Bersuka hati mendengarkan rancangan,
Rakyat menghadapkan segala keterangan,
Menyokong cadangan menguatkan rancangan.”
These verses emphasize the importance of inclusivity and consultation in governance. By involving the citizens in the planning and decision-making process, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien ensured that the governance was reflective of the people's needs and aspirations. This approach not only garnered public support but also strengthened the implementation of policies.
Transparency and Communication
“Perundingan negara seumpamanya,
Di situ tergantung nasib rakyatnya,
Sama ia baik mahupun buruknya,
Akan di rasa oleh penduduknya.”
These lines highlight the significance of transparency and communication in governance. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien understood that the outcomes of government negotiations and decisions directly impacted the citizens. Therefore, it was crucial to keep the public informed about the benefits and costs associated with government policies.
Accountability and Perseverance
“Perundingan negara bukannya mudah,
Hendaklah hati kuat dan tabah,
Supaya maksud tiada berubah,
Negeri dan rakyat dapat faedah.”
Accountability and perseverance are vital elements of good governance. These verses reflect the challenges faced in government negotiations and the need for strong and steadfast leadership. By remaining committed to the goals, the leadership can ensure that the nation and its people reap the benefits.
Collective Learning and Evaluation
“Sebelum diambil langkah muktamat,
Dilantik komiti memberi maklumat,
Pergi ke daerah ketemu rakyat,
Mencari fikiran suara muktamat.”
This stanza underscores the importance of collective learning and evaluation. Before making final decisions, it is essential to gather information from various stakeholders and the public. This process of consultation and feedback ensures that decisions are well-informed and considerate of the people's opinions.
Risk Management and Experience
“Ilmu itu pelita hati,
Dapat mengira untung dan rugi,
Senang menduga saudara sebati,
Panduan memilih elok dan keji.”
Knowledge and experience are critical for effective risk management in governance. These lines convey that wisdom guides the heart, enabling leaders to weigh the pros and cons of their decisions. By understanding the implications of their actions, leaders can choose the best course for the nation.
Planning and Adaptability
“Menjadi peta buat merancang,
Mana berguna untukkan datang,
Boleh dipinda mana yang kurang,
Itulah sebabnya syair dikarang.”
Planning and adaptability are essential for sustainable governance. This verse illustrates the need for strategic planning and the flexibility to adapt plans as necessary. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien’s poetry serves as a guide for future generations, highlighting the importance of learning from past experiences and adjusting strategies accordingly.
Islamic Perspective on Participatory Public Governance: The Syura System
The Syura system, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, is a consultative body that plays a crucial role in governance. It emphasises mutual consultation (Syura) as a fundamental principle for decision-making, reflecting the inclusive and participatory nature of Islamic governance. The Syura system is already embedded in Brunei’s governance framework and might be strengthened to empower people’s participation.
What is the Islamic Syura System?
The Syura system is an Islamic consultative process where leaders seek advice and opinions from knowledgeable and concerned individuals within the community. This system is based on the Quranic injunction:
"And those who have responded to their lord and established prayer and whose affair is [determined by] consultation among themselves, and from what We have provided them, they spend." (Quran 42:38)
The Syura emphasizes:
1. Inclusivity: Ensuring that all segments of society are represented and their voices heard.
2. Transparency: Maintaining open and honest communication about decisions and policies.
3. Accountability: Holding leaders responsible for their actions and decisions.
4. Justice: Ensuring that decisions are fair and equitable.
Strengthening the Syura System in Brunei
1. Formalizing Syura Councils: Establishing formal Syura councils at various administrative levels might institutionalize the consultative process.
2. Broadening Representation: Ensuring diverse representation within the Syura councils, including scholars, community leaders, and representatives from various societal groups, could be beneficial.
3. Promoting Awareness: Raising awareness about the importance of the Syura system and encouraging active participation from the community might strengthen its role.
4. Integrating Modern Tools: Utilising modern technology could facilitate the Syura process, making it more accessible and efficient.
His Majesty the Sultan's Commitment to Participatory Governance
Participatory Public Governance is indeed in line with the aspiration of His Majesty the Sultan. On 15 July 2004, at the relaunching of the Legislative Council (LegCo), His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzadin Waddaulah reiterated his call for the establishment of a committee tasked with reviewing the Constitution and laws of the country, so that they will truly align with the current challenges.
He said the committee has identified the necessary changes to further strengthen the institution of monarchy and improve the effectiveness of the government's relationship with the people.
These changes, he said, will enable us to best protect and preserve the interests of the people and the country. He underscored the importance of involving the people in the development of Brunei Darussalam.
He said the re-establishment of LegCo was the beginning of creating a more formal consultation structure. It will add a forum for the channelling of opinions and views. His Majesty declared, in the Constitution:
"WHEREAS WE intend to govern in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution and the laws of Brunei Darussalam and, by progressive steps hereafter, to introduce further representative institutions into the government of Brunei Darussalam."
Integrating these Elements into Modern Governance
To integrate these principles of good governance into Brunei’s current system, the following suggestions might be considered:
1. Institutionalize Inclusivity: Creating formal mechanisms for citizen involvement in policy-making could include public consultations, advisory councils, and community meetings.
2. Enhance Transparency: Making government processes and decisions more transparent by regularly publishing reports, holding press conferences, and using digital platforms to disseminate information might be beneficial.
3. Strengthen Accountability: Implementing systems to hold government officials accountable for their actions could involve independent oversight bodies, performance reviews, and public reporting.
4. Foster Continuous Learning: Establishing feedback loops where policies are continuously evaluated and improved based on input from citizens and stakeholders could ensure that governance remains responsive and effective.
5. Prioritise Risk Management: Developing comprehensive risk management frameworks that incorporate knowledge and experience from various sources might help mitigate potential risks and enhance decision-making.
6. Encourage Adaptability: Promoting a culture of adaptability within government institutions might encourage innovation and flexibility in policy implementation to address emerging challenges effectively.
Conclusion
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien’s "Syair Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei" offers profound insights into the principles of good governance. By embracing inclusivity, transparency, accountability, collective learning, risk management, and adaptability, Brunei can potentially build a governance system that is robust, resilient, and reflective of its Malay Islamic Monarchy principles. As Brunei moves towards Wawasan 2035, integrating these elements into its governance framework might be crucial for achieving sustainable development and prosperity.
References :
Participatory Public Governance - Pia Andrews
IPA, Pembangunan Strategik MIB 2015 – Dato Malai Ali Othman
Language and politics: connotative meaning analysis of “syair Pelembagaan negeri brunei” from the perspective of leadership characteristic of Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien - Fatimah Hj Awang Chuchu; Ismayah Binti Hj Mohd Noor Hj Sulaiman; Siti Khadijah Binti Hj Abd Salim University of Brunei Darussalam
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