Progress and Public Sentiment on Wawasan Brunei 2035: Corollaries, Contradictions, and Economic Growth

Brunei Darussalam's ambitious national vision, Wawasan Brunei 2035, remains a central topic of national discourse as the nation approaches its target date. 

Launched in 2007 with the endorsement of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the vision aspires to elevate Brunei into the ranks of the top ten countries globally in terms of education, quality of life, and economic performance. 

However, as 2035 draws nearer, the contrast between the nation's aspirations and its current realities becomes more apparent.

Political and Economic Landscape

In a recent address at the 20th Meeting of the National Executive Council (MMN) for 1445H/2024M, His Majesty emphasized the critical importance of the 12th National Development Plan (NDP), set to commence in the Financial Year 2024/2025. 

This five-year plan aims to accelerate national development projects, attract foreign direct investments, and create new job opportunities for Bruneians. 

Despite these ambitious goals, public sentiment paints a different picture, with many expressing frustration over the slow pace of progress and lingering economic challenges.

Discrepancies in Human Development

Reflecting on the nation's accomplishments during the 40th National Day celebrations, His Majesty highlighted Brunei's commendable Human Development Index (HDI) ranking of 51st out of 191 countries. 

This ranking signifies progress in life expectancy, education, and quality of life, aligning with both the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Wawasan Brunei 2035. 

However, this progress is marred by a worrying trend: Brunei's HDI rank has fallen from 29th to 43rd over the past five years, surpassed by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. 

This decline suggests that despite advancements, the country is struggling to keep pace with its ambitious goals.

Educational and Economic Contradictions

The Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, recently highlighted significant progress in education. 

The country's scores on the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) have improved, with Brunei now in the top three in ASEAN in all domains. 

However, public discourse reveals a different narrative. Concerns about declining education standards and a disconnect between higher education and job opportunities remain prevalent. 

In terms of economic performance, the non-oil-and-gas sector has grown by over four per cent for seven consecutive years, and unemployment has decreased from 9.3 per cent in 2011 to 5.2 per cent in 2022. 

Despite these achievements, Brunei's heavy dependence on the oil and gas sector continues to pose significant challenges, and the broader economic diversification efforts appear insufficient to foster a resilient economy.

Social Sentiment and Governance Issues

Public sentiment towards Wawasan Brunei 2035 is mixed, with optimism tempered by scepticism. 

Citizens, particularly the youth, express frustration over the pace of progress and existing obstacles. 

Discussions on social media reveal concerns about unemployment and declining education standards. 

There are widespread calls for greater discipline, determination, and hard work to achieve the vision's goals. 

Concerns about nepotism and the need for a meritocratic system are also prevalent, with many citizens advocating for opportunities based on talent and qualifications rather than connections. 

The disconnect between higher education and job opportunities remains a critical issue.

Infrastructure and Tourism Potential

Brunei boasts significant infrastructure for tourism, including the longest bridge in ASEAN, beautiful mosques, JPMC for medical tourism, Temburong for eco-tourism, Jerudong Park, and high-standard golf courses. 

However, the tourism agency has not effectively promoted Brunei as a tourist destination. 

A lack of coordination between public agencies and insufficient marketing efforts hinder tourism development. Enhancing public transportation and improving inter-agency coordination could boost the sector.

Technological and Environmental Initiatives

His Majesty's emphasis on digital transformation aligns with global trends, and investments in technology are crucial for enhancing productivity. However, the implementation of these initiatives often falls short. 

Environmental sustainability efforts, while commendable, face similar challenges. Initiatives focusing on renewable energy and conservation are essential, but their impact is limited without robust enforcement and public engagement.

Conclusion

Wawasan Brunei 2035 represents an ambitious national vision, but achieving its goals requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders. 

Addressing unemployment, making education more aligned with job readiness and productivity, and fostering a meritocratic system is essential. 

While significant progress has been made, much work remains to be done to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Brunei Darussalam. 

The nation's progress so far indicates a committed journey, but the path ahead requires greater transparency, accountability, and genuine reform to transform vision into reality. (MHO07/2024)

References

- Majlis Tertinggi Wawasan Brunei 2035 Report, 2023
- His Majesty the Sultan's Address during the Supreme Council Meeting, 2023
- His Majesty the Sultan's 40th National Day Titah
- Brunei Vision 2035 Report