"From Sermons to Reality: Why Integrity Remains a Challenge in Brunei"

"Brunei's Fight for Integrity: Breaking the Chains of Colonial Mentality” 

Can Brunei truly embody its vision as a *Negara Zikir*, a state constantly remembering Allah? Despite the ideals of justice, compassion, and integrity deeply rooted in its Malay Islamic Monarchy (M.I.B) framework, the struggle against corruption and lingering colonial influences remains. Dive into the complexities of governance shaped by Syiasah politics, patronising dynamics, and limited electoral participation—where the pursuit of true integrity is both a challenge and an aspiration. Will Brunei break free from the chains of the past and rise as a model of ethical governance?

 

 

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, NOVEMBER 2024: Integrity is frequently echoed in Brunei's Friday sermons and official statements, yet it often remains elusive in practice.

 

Today, 29th November 2024, imams across the nation reiterated the significance of integrity in the workplace — a commendable sentiment, but is it adequate? 

 

Workers were encouraged to carry out their duties with discipline, high moral standards, and dedication. 

 

The sermon addressed the pursuit of halal sustenance, emphasising the importance of contributing positively to the national mission. 

 

However, beneath this moral exhortation lies a more troubling question: Why does integrity continue to be a challenge despite Brunei's proclaimed commitment to Islamic principles?

 

The imams also discussed corruption, labelling it as a crime and a violation of Islamic values. 

 

They reminded the congregation of the severe penalties for those convicted — B$30,000 in fines and seven years of imprisonment. Nonetheless, how effective are these deterrents when corruption persists, lurking within our institutions? 

 

Since its establishment in 1982, Brunei's Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has investigated 2,469 cases of alleged corruption. 

 

As a result, 284 individuals faced criminal charges, resulting in 231 convictions for offences that range from bribery to criminal breach of trust, fraudulent financial claims, cheating, and even receiving sexual favours. 

 

Additionally, 260 public servants have been dismissed or reprimanded for abusing their positions for personal gain. 

 

Administrative sanctions have included suspensions, demotions, and the cancellation of bonuses — indicating that corruption is not merely an abstract issue but a significant threat to governance.

 

Despite these efforts, Brunei scored only 60/100 on the 2020 Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking 35th out of 180 countries. 

 

While this may seem respectable, it falls short of exemplary, particularly for a nation aspiring to uphold Malay Islamic Monarchy (Melayu Islam Beraja - M.I.B) values and establish itself as a Negara Zikir —a state that remembers Allah in all aspects of life. So, where is the disconnect?

 

Negara Zikir: The Path to True Integrity

 

To grasp the struggle for integrity, we must explore the concept of Negara Zikir as presented in "Falsafah Pembangunan Negara Zikir Memperteguh Stabiliti Konsep Melayu Islam Beraja" by Rasinah Ahim. 

 

The Negara Zikir philosophy seeks to cultivate a society that is profoundly devoted to the remembrance of Allah. 

 

More than just a concept, it serves as a guiding framework that intertwines spirituality and morality with the nation’s development. 

 

The three core elements of Negara Zikir — framework, operational mechanism, and objectives —focus on aligning governance with Islamic values and pursuing mardhatillah (divine satisfaction). 

 

This vision is evident in Brunei's governance model, which strives to balance economic progress with spiritual fulfilment, ensuring that all policies and actions reinforce the nation's moral and ethical foundation.

 

The Role of the Sultan as Ulil Amri 

 

At the heart of this philosophy is the role of the Sultan as Ulil Amri, a term from the Qur'an meaning "those in authority." 

 

The Qur'anic verse Surah An-Nisa 4:59 instructs believers: “O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you…”.

 

This verse underscores the religious obligation to obey Allah, the Prophet, and the Ulil Amri, highlighting that authority is a divine trust that must be exercised with justice and integrity. 

 

As Ulil Amri, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzadin Wadaullah, serves as both a political and spiritual leader of Brunei, embodying the principles of Adil (justice) and Berehsan (compassion). 

 

His leadership is distinguished by a steadfast commitment to fairness, ensuring that governance is conducted with integrity and that all citizens receive equitable treatment. 

 

Adil signifies that every decision made is anchored in justice, providing a robust framework for respecting citizens' rights and applying the law uniformly. 

 

In contrast, Berehsan reflects His Majesty's compassion and empathy, essential for fostering a harmonious society where the welfare of the people is prioritised. 

 

Negara Zikir and Adil dan Berehsan in Governance

 

The concept of Negara Zikir is closely connected to His Majesty's leadership, which is based on the principles of Adil dan Berehsan. 

 

These principles ensure that governance extends beyond merely enforcing laws; they also emphasise the importance of cultivating a society where ethical values and spirituality drive development. 

 

His Majesty envisions Brunei as a Negara Zikir —a nation constantly remembering Allah — implying that all aspects of governance, from economic policies to social welfare, must reflect Islamic values. 

 

This alignment is evident in initiatives like the Syariah Penal Code Order 2013, the promotion of mandatory religious education, and a strong emphasis on moral conduct in public life. 

 

These actions aim to establish a governance structure that is both just and compassionate, embodying the dual aspects of Adil dan Berehsan. 

 

By fusing justice with compassion, His Majesty strives to ensure that Brunei's development is not only materially prosperous but also spiritually enriching.

 

The Interplay of Political Cultures in Brunei

 

Brunei's governance is shaped by the complex interplay of three political cultures: Syiasah politics, electoral politics, and patronising politics. Understanding the interactions among these cultures elucidates the challenges in fully achieving the vision of Negara Zikir. 

 

1.     Syiasah Politics: Grounded in Islamic governance, Syiasah politics prioritises justice, welfare, and adherence to Islamic principles. The Sultan, as Ulil Amri, ensures that governance aligns with Islamic values, focusing on public welfare and moral authority. This approach is vital to Brunei's aspiration to be a Negara Zikir, where every decision reflects the remembrance of Allah.

 

2.     Electoral Politics: Electoral politics in Brunei is limited, with minimal public involvement in decision-making processes. The lack of widespread electoral participation diminishes accountability, which is essential for integrity. Without mechanisms for public input and the ability to select representatives, holding leaders accountable for their actions becomes challenging, potentially obstructing just and transparent governance.

 

3.     Patronising Politics: Patronizing politics involves decision-making driven by loyalty and personal connections rather than competence and merit. This culture can undermine efforts to uphold Adil dan Berehsan in governance, as favouritism may result in unfair practices and diminish public trust. When loyalty takes precedence over competence, it creates obstacles to establishing a meritocratic system that prioritises the welfare of all citizens. 

 

The Struggle for True Alignment

 

Despite these lofty ideals, the reality of Brunei's governance remains shaped by a blend of colonial mentality, secular thinking, and the interactions of the previously mentioned political cultures. 

 

This combination complicates the efforts to fully realise the vision of Negara Zikir. 

 

Additionally, the influence of patronising politics, where loyalty often supersedes competence, further undermines the principles of justice and fairness. 

 

The concept of Negara Zikir, alongside Syiasah politics, outlines a framework for a society that prioritises justice, morality, and welfare. 

 

However, achieving this vision requires overcoming the systemic barriers that impede progress. 

 

The teachings of the Qur'an emphasise the importance of obeying the Ulil Amri, provided they govern in alignment with Allah's commands. 

 

Therefore, both leadership and the public must actively ensure that governance remains free from corruption and is rooted in Islamic values.

 

A Call for Transformation

 

To genuinely uphold the ideals of M.I.B and become a Negara Zikir, Brunei must confront these systemic challenges. 

 

This entails cultivating a political culture that truly reflects Islamic values, prioritises public welfare, and fosters an environment of transparency and accountability.

 

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has made progress, but authentic transformation necessitates more than merely enforcing regulations; it calls for a cultural shift that establishes integrity as the foundation of governance. 

 

The message from the imams is clear: integrity is not solely an individual responsibility; it is a societal obligation integral to the nation's pursuit of becoming a Negara Zikir. 

 

His Majesty's leadership, defined by Adil dan Berehsan, exemplifies how governance should be conducted—with justice, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to Islamic principles. 

 

However, sermons and leadership alone will not suffice; true change will manifest when integrity is instilled within the structures of governance, when Syiasah politics is genuinely practised, and when every action taken by leaders and citizens alike is imbued with the motto “In Service with God’s Guidance” — a phrase enshrined in Brunei's state emblem. Only then can Brunei thrive under Allah's guidance and realise the potential of Syiasah politics and the vision of Negara Zikir. (MHO/11/2024)

"Can Brunei's Ministry Deliver on its Sacred Duty? A Look at the 2024–2029 Plan"

Following the public’s lively response to our earlier article on Brunei’s Ministry of Development Strategic Plan 2024–2029, we delve deeper into the discussion. This latest report examines the plan through insights from professionals and retired consultants versed in socio-political, economic, and Maqasid Syariah principles.

 

How can public service transcend technical delivery to become an act of worship and a pillar of Brunei’s vision? Discover the untold challenges and opportunities shaping the nation’s future.

 

Revisiting Brunei’s Strategic Plan Through the Lens of Maqasid Syari'ah

 

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, NOVEMBER 2024: The Ministry of Development’s (MoD) Strategic Plan for 2024–2029 sets forth ambitious goals aimed at transforming Brunei's infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life.

 

From safer roads to improved drainage and universal access to clean water, the plan seeks to address public concerns while laying the foundation for sustainable development.

 

In Brunei, as an Islamic state, development transcends technical efforts; it represents an act of ‘Ibadah’, or worship, expressed through service to the people, undertaken for the sake of Allah.

 

This sacred duty reflects the nation’s vision of ‘Baldatun Thayyibatun Wa Rabbun Ghafur’ (a good and prosperous land under the forgiveness of God) and its identity as a ‘Negara Zikir’ (a nation that remembers God), guiding every action by Islamic principles. The national crest prominently inscribes the phrase: "Always in service with God's guidance."

 

This enduring message reminds public servants and leaders that their responsibilities extend beyond infrastructure and utilities; they are stewards of the community, entrusted to serve with integrity and accountability.

 

Public Service as an Act of Worship

 

The Strategic Plan provides an opportunity for the Ministry to embody the concept of ‘Ibadah’ by addressing the immediate needs of the populace following Maqasid Syariah.

 

This framework focuses on preserving faith, life, intellect, lineage, and wealth, ensuring that development initiatives are ethical, inclusive, and sustainable.

 

Preserving Life (Hifz al-Nafs): Public services, such as reliable water supply, safe roads, and effective drainage systems, are not merely conveniences; they are moral obligations. Maintaining these essential services safeguards lives and promotes overall well-being, fulfilling the Islamic duty to protect human life.

 

Preserving Wealth (Hifz al-Mal): Transparent budgeting, efficient resource allocation, and equitable pricing are crucial for the ethical management of public funds. By prioritising cost-effective solutions and minimising waste, the Ministry can protect both national and individual wealth.

 

Preserving Faith (Hifz al-Din): Each infrastructure project—ranging from clean water systems to public parks—can showcase Brunei’s commitment to nurturing an environment that upholds spiritual and moral values. Accessible mosques, community spaces, and facilities that support worship further reinforce the nation’s Islamic identity.

 

The Role of Public Utilities: Bridging Vision and Action

Citizens often evaluate the effectiveness of public service through its tangible impacts on their daily lives.

 

For the MoD, this entails ensuring essential utilities and infrastructure meet standards of ‘availability, quantity, quality, and affordability’ in every initiative.

 

Roads as Pathways of Safety and Progress: Pothole-ridden roads and uneven surfaces not only compromise safety but also disrupt daily routines. Regular maintenance and upgrades are essential; they are acts of service to the community, ensuring safe transit for all.

 

Drainage Systems as Protectors of Communities: Clogged drains that lead to flooding pose threats to both lives and property. Effective drainage systems reflect the Ministry’s duty to protect communities, embodying the ideals of preservation and care.

 

Water Supply as a Source of Sustenance: Clean and affordable water is a precious gift. Guaranteeing uninterrupted access to this vital resource aligns with the principles of serving others for the sake of Allah while safeguarding both life and wealth.

 

Infrastructure as a Reflection of Faith

Brunei’s Strategic Plan must embody the nation’s identity as a ‘Negara Zikir’, where public service is intertwined with spiritual values.

 

By incorporating the principles of ‘Ibadah’ into its KPIs, the Ministry can enhance public trust and showcase its dedication to serving the people with sincerity and purpose.

 

Availability: Every citizen, regardless of geographic location or economic status, should have access to essential services.

 

Quality: Infrastructure must be durable, reliable, and aligned with Islamic ethics. For instance, roads and drainage systems should adhere to high safety standards to protect lives.

 

Affordability: Fair and transparent pricing ensures that services remain accessible to all segments of society, particularly the most vulnerable.

 

One observer noted, “In Brunei, public service is not merely a job; it is a spiritual responsibility. Serving others is an act of worship, and every repaired road or cleared drain represents an opportunity to fulfil this sacred duty.”

 

Execution Is Ibadah: Turning Aspirations into Action

The true measure of the Strategic Plan’s success lies in its execution. By aligning its actions with the principles of ‘Maqasid Syariah’ and ‘Ibadah’, the Ministry of Development can convert public utilities and infrastructure into symbols of trust, progress, and faith.

 

Timely Implementation: Proactive maintenance of drainage systems and road networks can prevent recurring issues and ensure seamless service.

 

Transparency and Accountability: Public reporting on project progress, budgets, and outcomes fosters trust and reflects the integrity expected in a ‘Negara Zikir’.

 

Community Involvement: Actively engaging citizens in planning and monitoring ensures that infrastructure projects meet genuine needs and create a sense of shared responsibility.

 

A Shared Vision for a Blessed Future

The Ministry’s Strategic Plan serves not only as a roadmap for development but also as a testament to Brunei’s commitment to serving its people for the sake of Allah.

 

By approaching every project as an act of ‘Ibadah’, the Ministry of Development can align its efforts with the nation’s vision of ‘Baldatun Thayyibatun Wa Rabbun Ghafur’, fostering a legacy of ethical governance and sustainable progress.

 

As Brunei faces the challenges of modern development, the true measure of this plan will be its capacity to integrate faith into action.

 

Will the Ministry rise to the occasion and fulfil its sacred duty to serve the people, or will the chance for meaningful change be forfeited?

 

The answer lies not only in infrastructure but also in the hearts and intentions of those entrusted with this noble mission. (MHO/11/2024)

 

"Can Brunei's Strategic Plan Rise Above Skepticism?"

As Brunei unveils its ambitious Ministry of Development Strategic Plan for 2024-2029, a deeper look reveals a vision rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and Islamic principles under Maqasid Syariah. 

 

But can promises of a brighter future rise above public scepticism and industry concerns? From construction industry woes to questions of transparency and execution, this is more than just a plan—it’s a test of trust, accountability, and innovation. 

 

Will the nation unite to overcome challenges, or will history repeat itself? Dive into the story behind the strategy.

 

 By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, NOVEMBER 2024 — With the launch of the Ministry of Development’s (MoD) Strategic Plan for 2024-2029, Brunei appears poised to address some of the most pressing challenges facing its infrastructure and development sectors. 

 

Yet, beneath the lofty goals of improving quality of life, advancing sustainable development, and fostering national prosperity lies a complex narrative of systemic challenges, professional outcry, and public scepticism. 

 

This raises the question of whether this plan will serve as a blueprint for progress or merely be another paper ambition.

 

The Vision: Sustainability, Innovation, and Inclusivity

The Ministry of Development’s (MoD) strategic plan sets out an ambitious roadmap to transform Brunei’s infrastructure, advance sustainability, and enhance the nation’s quality of life. 

 

Central to this vision is a target to achieve an 80% success rate for key performance indicators (KPIs) by 2029.

 

However, some observers have raised concerns about the feasibility of these goals. 

 

Critics point to a lack of detailed plans or explicitly defined areas tied to the KPIs, questioning the transparency and practicality of the strategy. 

 

“While the document outlines broad goals like fostering sustainability, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting inclusivity, it lacks the specificity required to measure progress effectively,” commented one observer. 

 

“The absence of clear, measurable KPIs raises concerns about how success will be tracked, accountability ensured, and public trust maintained. Without defined metrics or a robust performance monitoring framework, the plan risks being perceived as aspirational rather than actionable.”

 

Another observer added, “To inspire confidence among stakeholders, the Ministry must provide a detailed roadmap with transparent targets and measurable outcomes.”

 

Amid these concerns, Minister Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda highlighted the importance of collective effort in a recent Muzakarah session. 

 

“With the collaboration of all parties, I am confident we can achieve our goals and contribute to the well-being of Brunei,” he stated.

 

Nevertheless, voices from both the public and industry professionals continue to express frustration over longstanding execution gaps and unresolved issues, which they fear could hinder the plan’s success.

 

Maqasid Syariah: A Framework for Development

Central to the MoD’s Strategic Plan is its alignment with the principles of Maqasid Syariah, which aims to preserve and promote essential human needs: religion, life, intellect, lineage, and property. 

 

By grounding its initiatives in these principles, the plan seeks to achieve holistic and sustainable development that benefits both present and future generations. 

 

For instance, the emphasis on sustainability reflects the principle of protecting life and the environment, ensuring that infrastructure projects do not compromise the well-being of future generations. 

 

Similarly, the focus on inclusive development supports the preservation of intellect and property by fostering equitable access to resources and opportunities for all citizens. 

 

Critics, however, argue that while the narrative of Maqasid Syariah is compelling, its practical implementation remains unclear. 

 

“It’s a noble framework,” noted one academic, “but without clear benchmarks or strategies, it risks becoming a philosophical ideal rather than a functional guide.”

 

Public Sentiment: Between Optimism and Disillusionment

A quick scan of public opinion paints a mixed picture. While some commend the government’s efforts, others dismiss the plan as yet another round of empty promises. 

 

Comments range from calls for action to address potholes and drainage issues to critiques of “all bark, no bite” leadership. 

 

One remark encapsulated the mood succinctly: “We should be in the execution phase, not engaging in last-minute planning and execution in parallel.” 

 

This scepticism is fueled by historical grievances, such as the decade-long problems with Mengkubau’s government housing scheme, persistent delays in contractor payments, and a perceived lack of accountability in public projects.

 

Industry Perspectives: A Sector Under Siege

Brunei’s construction industry, historically a pillar of national development, now faces unprecedented challenges. 

 

Recent policy shifts favouring in-house project execution over private consultancy have strained local professionals. 

 

Architects, engineers, and contractors report reduced opportunities and unsustainable financial pressures.

 

As one contractor lamented, “Everyone is crying for work… many contractors have closed down or sold off their assets just to survive.” 

 

This shift has also led to questionable practices, such as “rubber-stamping” designs without thorough reviews, which compromises safety standards. 

 

A lack of adherence to regulations like the APEQS Order 2011 and the Building Control Order 2014 exacerbates these issues, undermining trust in the sector’s integrity.

 

Procurement Practices: Transparency or Favoritism?

The nation’s procurement system is another contentious area. Reports of “idea harvesting” and bid rigging highlight systemic issues where innovation is exploited without compensation, and contracts are allegedly awarded based on favouritism. 

 

Such practices not only demoralise local talent but also raise concerns about Brunei’s ability to achieve its Vision 2035 goals. 

 

Critics argue that a transparent bidding process with robust intellectual property protections is crucial to restoring fairness and fostering innovation.

 

The MoD’s Challenges: Bridging the Gap

Despite its challenges, the MoD’s Strategic Plan offers a potential pathway forward. Initiatives like the National Housing Scheme and the Construction Industry Framework 2022-2035 aim to address long-standing issues by embracing innovative technologies and sustainable practices. 

 

However, experts warn that these efforts will falter without stronger collaboration between the government and professionals in the private sector. 

 

Additionally, the government must tackle the root causes of inefficiency, including bureaucratic bottlenecks, delayed payments, and weak oversight of subcontractors. 

 

The Authority for Building and Construction Industry (ABCi) has been urged to enforce stricter regulations to ensure fair labour practices and uphold construction standards.

 

A Call for Accountability and Action

For the MoD’s Strategic Plan to succeed, accountability must take centre stage. 

Stakeholders advocate for independent audits, transparent project management, and inclusive public consultation to build trust and ensure meaningful progress. 

 

Public feedback mechanisms, robust enforcement of anti-corruption frameworks, and equitable treatment of local professionals are non-negotiable if Brunei is to turn its strategic vision into reality. 

 

As one commentator remarked, "This plan must work for Brunei’s people, not just on paper." 

 

The coming years will determine whether the MoD’s strategy can rise above scepticism and deliver on its promises, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

 

Moving Forward: A Shared Responsibility

The success of the Strategic Plan lies not only in government initiatives but also in the collaboration and active participation of all stakeholders. 

 

Civil society, the private sector, and professional bodies must unite to contribute their expertise and feedback. 

 

By addressing historical inefficiencies and fostering innovation through transparent practices, Brunei can transform this ambitious document into a meaningful reality. 

 

The nation’s progress hinges on trust, shared accountability, and a collective commitment to sustainable development. 

 

The question remains: will the MoD rise to meet the challenge, or will the scepticism of the past continue to haunt Brunei’s plans? Time will tell. (MHO/11/2024)