A Conversation with Yusuf Islam: A Moment in Time

It was 1998, a time when Brunei was hosting the Brunei Islamic Expo, an event that brought together scholars, thinkers, and figures dedicated to the promotion of Islamic values. 

 

Among them was Yusuf Islam, formerly known to the world as Cat Stevens - the legendary musician whose songs had once graced international airwaves before he left the music industry to fully embrace Islam. 

 

As a reporter for Borneo Bulletin, I was given the unique privilege of interviewing him. The venue was the State Mufti’s Office, a setting befitting the depth of the conversation that was about to take place. 

 

I remember feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness - here was a man whose life had undergone a profound transformation, a man whose journey from fame to faith had captivated many, including myself. 

 

When I finally sat down with him, Yusuf Islam exuded an air of quiet confidence, humility, and wisdom. 

 

He was dressed in a simple yet elegant white outfit, a reflection of the serenity that seemed to define him. Unlike the exuberance of a rock star, he carried himself with the grace of a teacher, a man who had found peace in his beliefs.

 

Our conversation quickly moved to the topic closest to his heart at the time - Islamic education for children. 

 

Yusuf Islam spoke passionately about the importance of raising young Muslims with a strong foundation in their faith. 

 

He shared his vision of providing high-quality Islamic education through modern yet values-driven methods. 

 

He was not just talking about education in the academic sense but about spiritual nourishment, ensuring that young minds learned about Islam in a way that was engaging, inspiring, and deeply meaningful. 

 

His commitment was not just theoretical; it was something he had already begun putting into action. 

 

In 1983, he established an Islamic primary school in London, and by 1998, it had achieved grant-maintained status, a historic milestone in the UK. 

 

His passion for nurturing young minds extended beyond the classroom - he was creating Islamic content that was accessible, relatable, and educational.

 

As our conversation drew to a close, he handed me a CD - "Mountain of Light," one of his latest works dedicated to Islamic education. 

 

It was more than just a gift; it was a symbol of his mission, his new path, and his unwavering dedication to sharing the beauty of Islam through words and melodies. 

 

At that moment, I felt a sense of profound gratitude. I was not just speaking to a former global superstar; I was conversing with a man who had found his purpose and was striving to make a difference. 

 

I still have that CD - though I must admit, I have forgotten where I kept it. Perhaps it is buried somewhere among old keepsakes, waiting to be rediscovered. But even without holding it in my hands, the memory of that day remains vivid in my heart.

 

Now, decades later, as I reflect on that encounter, I realise that it was not just an interview - it was a lesson in commitment, faith, and transformation. 

 

Yusuf Islam’s journey was one of courage, choosing a path that many did not understand but one that he knew was right for him. 

 

His words that day were not merely about education but about living a life of purpose and sincerity. 

 

The world has changed since 1998, and so has Yusuf Islam. 

 

He eventually returned to music, using it as a tool for spreading positive messages. 

 

But at the core of it all, his mission has remained the same - to inspire, to educate, and to uplift. 

 

That day at the State Mufti’s Office, I was fortunate to sit across from a man who had walked away from the limelight and into the light of faith. It was a moment in time that I will always treasure. (MHO)

Brunei’s Oil in Decline: Can the Sector Evolve to Secure Its Future?

What happens when an industry that built a nation's wealth starts to wither away? As Brunei's oil production declines and the world shifts toward renewable energy, can the nation’s economic lifeblood evolve, or will it remain trapped in the past? The future of Brunei's oil and gas industry hangs in the balance – and so does the future of its economy.

 

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM, JANUARY 2025: Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) has long been recognised for its operational excellence and efficient management of the nation's oil and gas assets, forming a cornerstone of Brunei’s wealth for decades. 

 

Despite its world-class operations and commitment to safety, Brunei’s oil sector now faces a significant challenge: as crude oil production continues to decline, can it evolve quickly enough to maintain its crucial role in the national economy? 

 

In 2023, Brunei’s crude oil production fell to just 93,000 barrels per day, down from a peak of 221,000 barrels per day in 2006. 

 

By early 2024, production had slipped further, averaging around 73,000 barrels per day. 

 

These figures underscore a broader issue — one that poses a serious threat to the future of Brunei's oil and gas sector and the economy dependent on it.

 

The Challenge of Adapting to  Change

 

Brunei’s oil and gas sector, once central to its economic prosperity, now faces an urgent need to optimise operations and adapt to the rapidly evolving global energy landscape. 

 

With much of the country’s revenue still tied to oil, Brunei has struggled to diversify its economy and remains heavily reliant on a sector that is showing signs of exhaustion. 

 

A significant factor in this challenge is the sector's resistance to change. 

 

While other global oil producers have diversified their portfolios and embraced new technologies, Brunei’s oil industry continues to invest heavily in traditional practices, such as external training programs and consultancy services, without fully implementing the advanced technologies that could enhance efficiency and extend the lifespan of existing reserves. 

 

The International Energy Agency (IEA) stresses, “Countries reliant on fossil fuels must transition to cleaner energy sources to ensure long-term sustainability and meet global climate goals.” 

 

This transition involves adopting cleaner technologies, which Brunei's oil sector has been slow to integrate. Without this shift, the sector risks falling behind.

 

BSP’s Strong Foundations Amidst Industry  Challenges

 

Despite the challenges, BSP's long-standing reputation for operational efficiency remains a valuable asset. 

 

The company has upheld high operational standards; however, the global energy market is shifting, impacting oil prices and production dynamics. 

 

Brunei’s oil sector must adapt to this new reality to remain competitive. 

 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah has repeatedly emphasised the need for strong leadership and transparency within the oil and gas sector. 

 

His calls for modernisation are crucial, yet the pace of change has been slow. 

 

Experts agree that without a commitment to embracing innovation, the sector may continue to struggle. 

 

In 2024, TotalEnergies decided to divest its assets in Brunei, selling them to Malaysia’s Hibiscus Petroleum for $259 million. 

 

This move reflects growing concerns among foreign investors about Brunei’s oil sector, driven by stagnating production levels, lack of diversification, and limited innovation. 

 

According to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy, “The shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy is accelerating globally, and nations heavily dependent on oil must diversify to secure long-term economic stability.”

 

Opportunities for  Transformation

 

While Brunei's oil production has been on a downward trend, an increase in oil prices presents a glimmer of hope. 

 

The second quarter of 2024 saw oil prices average $88.89 per barrel, up from $83.90 in the previous year. 

 

This price increase offers an opportunity for Brunei’s oil sector, but swift action is needed to capitalise on these market conditions. 

 

Industry experts emphasise the importance of adopting a diversified energy strategy. 

 

For Brunei to continue thriving, they suggest integrating new technologies, improving resource management, and investing in renewable energy sources to ensure long-term resilience. 

 

This transformation requires not only an operational overhaul but also diversification into renewable energy for long-term sustainability.

 

A Dead Horse: Time for Change

 

The concept of the Dead Horse offersTheory serves as a powerful metaphor for the current situation, illustrating the futility of persisting with ineffective strategies, much like riding a dead horse. 

 

Brunei’s oil sector appears to be in a similar predicament, clinging to outdated practices without embracing the necessary changes. 

 

It is time for the industry to recognise that continuing down the same path while blaming external factors is not a viable solution. 

 

Innovation and modernization are no longer optional; they are essential for survival. 

 

Without a strategic shift toward diversification and sustainability, the sector will continue to deplete resources and delay critical reforms.

 

Looking Ahead: A Call for  Action

 

Brunei stands at a critical turning point. The oil sector, once a pillar of prosperity, now requires urgent transformation to secure a future beyond oil. 

 

The time for action is now. The decisions made today will determine whether Brunei can successfully navigate the global energy shift, ensuring a sustainable and diversified economy for future generations. 

 

The oil and gas sector must evolve - adopting innovation, modernising operations, and diversifying the energy mix. 

 

This is not merely about preserving the oil industry but about creating a resilient, future-proof economy that is not overly reliant on a single resource. (MHO/01/2025)

Brunei Tops Southeast Asia in Obesity—Why Has Nothing Changed?

By Malai Hassan Othman

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, JANUARY 2025: Beneath the tranquil beauty of Brunei Darussalam’s landscapes lies a troubling reality: the country has become the most overweight nation in Southeast Asia, with obesity rates soaring. 

 

This uncomfortable truth reflects inadequacies in the efforts to address the issue, which have fallen short of reversing the trend. 

From Makan-Makan Culture to a Health Crisis 

The makan-makan culture, which has long been integral to Bruneian life, now raises a critical question: is it causing more harm than good? 

 

Frequent office potlucks, celebratory feasts, and a strong social norm of sharing high-calorie meals have led to a societal epidemic of obesity. 

 

Once a symbol of warmth and generosity, this culture is now contributing to alarming health issues. 

 

Currently, a shocking 28.2% of Bruneians are obese, with nearly half of the population being overweight - figures that place Brunei at the top of Southeast Asia’s obesity rankings. 

 

Even more concerning is the drastic rise in childhood obesity, with over 18% of adolescents aged 13-17 classified as obese, making it the highest in the region. 

 

How Does Brunei Compare to Its Neighbors?

 

Brunei's obesity rate of 28.2% not only leads Southeast Asia but also far exceeds rates in neighbouring countries such as Malaysia at 19.7%, Singapore at 11.6%, and Thailand at 11.6%. 

 

The contrast is stark when compared to nations like Vietnam (1.7%) and Timor-Leste (1.1%), where obesity is a minor concern. 

 

In response to its obesity crisis, Malaysia has introduced taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages and stricter food labelling laws, while Singapore has actively promoted national fitness campaigns and calorie-conscious dining options. 

 

Despite these initiatives, both countries still trail behind healthier nations like Vietnam and the Philippines, where obesity rates remain under 10% due to higher levels of daily physical activity and lower consumption of processed foods. 

 

This issue transcends individual choices; it is a systemic problem that necessitates collective action from policymakers, businesses, and the public. 

 

Solutions must extend beyond quick fixes and tackle the underlying factors exacerbating the crisis. 

 

A System Failing Its People

 

Experts argue that Brunei’s battle with obesity is rooted in systemic issues, extending beyond mere diet and lifestyle choices. 

 

The market is saturated with cheap, unhealthy food, while healthier alternatives are often prohibitively expensive. 

 

“Pasar Malam drinks are essentially liquid sugar. It’s astonishing how much-condensed milk and syrup are packed into just one cup,” remarked a local observer. 

 

“If you’re not diabetic now, you will be soon.” 

 

A lack of physical activity compounds the problem. In a car-dependent culture, many Bruneians walk significantly less than their regional peers. 

 

"On average, I take only 3,000 steps a day, while my friends in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore easily manage 6,000 to 8,000," confessed one Bruneian professional. 

 

Observers note that many Bruneians prefer to park as close to department store entrances as possible, viewing it as a blessing to avoid even short walks. 

 

"If they can park right in front of the door, they feel like they've hit the jackpot," one remarked.

 

This Isn't New – A Crisis I Warned About Decades Ago

 

The obesity epidemic in Brunei is not a recent development - I recognized the warning signs decades ago. 

 

In the early 2000s, I reported on emerging obesity trends in the country, linking them to poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles. 

 

A study I covered at that time revealed that 96% of women and 54% of men were overweight or obese, with alarming waist-to-hip ratios that indicated significant health risks. 

 

Those findings raised concerns, but was enough done to avert today’s crisis? 

 

I vividly recall the alarms sounded back then, and the latest statistics show that those warnings went unheeded. 

 

This crisis has been brewing for decades, and yet Brunei now leads Southeast Asia in obesity rates. The question remains: why has so little changed?

 

Brunei's Obesity Policies: Falling Short or a Step in the Right Direction?

 

The government has introduced initiatives such as the Brunei National Multisectoral Action Plan for NCDs, but many feel these efforts are superficial and ineffective. 

 

“We hear about policies, but where’s the enforcement? Where are the free exercise programs? Where’s the tax on high-sugar products? It’s all just talk,” said one frustrated citizen. 

 

Despite the Ministry of Health’s efforts to promote calorie-awareness campaigns and implement school bans on sugary drinks, junk food remains cheap and accessible, while gym memberships and healthy food options are exclusive luxuries for the privileged. 

 

To make real progress, there must be stronger enforcement and collaboration across sectors - from the government imposing clear dietary guidelines to food businesses providing healthier options at reasonable prices.

 

Cultural Resistance to Change

 

Part of the challenge lies in Brunei’s deep-rooted attitudes towards food. 

 

Traditional dishes - rich in coconut milk, sugar, and fried ingredients - are both cherished and celebrated. 

 

Moreover, a sedentary lifestyle is prevalent, with little focus on daily exercise. 

 

“Bruneians often say they’ll start exercising ‘esok’ (tomorrow), but tomorrow never comes,” said a nutritionist. 

 

“The sad reality is that many only take health seriously when they find themselves in the ICU.”

 

An Avoidable Crisis—But Who Will Act?

 

Health observers and experts suggest that Brunei’s obesity epidemic is not just about food, but a challenge in policy effectiveness, public awareness, and behavioural change. The country needs more proactive measures, including:

 

·      Higher taxes on sugary drinks and fast food 

 

·      More accessible and affordable healthy meal options 

 

·      Mandatory exercise programs in schools and workplaces 

 

·      Urban planning that prioritises walkability 

 

·      Stronger public health education initiatives

 

To reverse this crisis, we need more than just policies; we need a national mindset shift toward health, encouraging individuals to make better choices while the government fosters a healthier environment. 

 

Preventing obesity is a shared responsibility, and only through sustained, collaborative efforts can Brunei curb this growing epidemic.

 

Time is running out for Brunei. With diabetes, heart disease, and obesity-related complications on the rise, how much longer can we afford to ignore this crisis?

How has obesity affected you or those around you? What solutions do you think would make the biggest impact? Join the discussion and share your insights.(MHO/01/2025)

Brunei’s Aging Society: A Looming Crisis

"By 2050, Brunei will have over 140,000 people aged 60 or older, presenting a seismic shift for the nation’s economy and social systems. With pensions falling short, healthcare gaps growing, and reliance on oil revenues becoming increasingly precarious, can Brunei rise to the challenge of safeguarding its elderly? Dive into the realities of an ageing society and explore the urgent steps needed to secure a sustainable future."

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, JANUARY 2025: Brunei Darussalam faces a critical demographic crisis as its population ages at an alarming rate. By 2050, approximately 28.7% of the population, or 140,000 individuals, will be aged 60 or older.

 

This pressing reality highlights the nation's unprepared infrastructure, social systems, and economy. Are we prepared to confront this “silver tsunami,” or are we quietly heading toward inevitable collapse?

 

The Heavy Price of Neglect

Many elderly parents find themselves financially supporting unemployed or underemployed adult children. 

 

Retirees in Brunei typically receive two types of allowances: a $250 monthly pension provided under the Old Age and Disability Pensions Act, which serves as a baseline safety net for all elderly citizens, and benefits from the Skim Persaraan Kebangsaan (SPK) for those who participated in the workforce. 

 

Retirees eligible for both allowances receive a total of $500 per month, with the SPK benefit increasing based on years of service and contributions.

 

However, many in the informal workforce, estimated to number over 86,700 today, such as small business owners and freelancers, are not subscribed to the Tabung Amanah Pekerja (TAP) or SPK schemes. 

 

As a result, tens of thousands of retirees rely solely on the inadequate $250 baseline pension allowance, which is insufficient to cover rising living costs. 

 

Moreover, recent amendments to the Old Age and Disability Pensions Act in July 2021 have excluded over 2,000 permanent residents with foreign passports from receiving the $250 monthly pension. 

 

Many of these individuals, often stateless and having obtained passports from their home countries for travel purposes, now find themselves in a precarious situation. 

 

Despite decades of living and contributing to Brunei, they are no longer entitled to the safety nets they once relied on, and many lack tangible connections—such as relatives or property—to their countries of origin. 

 

This glaring exclusion raises significant moral and economic concerns for the nation.

  

A Healthcare System Under Pressure

 

While pensions are one side of the story, healthcare is another. 

 

Brunei’s healthcare system is grappling with rising cases of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension, which disproportionately affect older adults. 

 

Elder-focused medical services and preventive healthcare face challenges in scaling up to meet the growing needs of retirees. 

 

While Brunei has made strides in healthcare accessibility, gaps remain in specialised elder care, creating barriers for some retirees to access tailored services. 

 

Transitioning from pensions to healthcare highlights an important area for improvement: how can a nation with a relatively high GDP per capita continue to ensure its ageing citizens receive adequate support?

 

The “Silver Tsunami” No One Is Prepared For

 

Brunei is not fully equipped to meet the needs of its growing elderly population, often referred to as a 'silver tsunami.' 

 

The country’s current infrastructure is insufficient to accommodate this demographic shift. 

 

Public spaces frequently lack essential features such as wheelchair access, and caregivers face challenges due to inadequate training and support. 

 

These issues highlight the pressing need for significant investment in the care economy, which could enhance the quality of life for the elderly while creating new employment opportunities.

 

Addressing this challenge requires that elder-focused services not only align with contemporary societal needs but also resonate with Brunei’s cultural and religious values, as defined by the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) framework. 

 

It raises the question of whether enough has been done to uphold the traditions of filial piety and community care, while also adopting innovative caregiving approaches that ensure no one is left behind.

 

In his New Year 2025 titah, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah emphasized the importance of inclusive development. 

 

He urged closer collaboration among the private sector, NGOs, and the community to enhance the nation’s competitiveness. 

 

His Majesty highlighted that inclusive and sustainable development is not merely an economic priority but a moral obligation, especially in protecting the welfare of the elderly and underprivileged. This vision reflects a broader aim of fostering a balanced society where no one is overlooked in Brunei’s progress.

 

Questions of Sustainability

 

Brunei's heavy dependence on oil and gas revenues raises significant concerns about the sustainability of its social safety nets. 

 

As reserves decline, the increasing costs of extraction, alongside falling global oil prices, have jeopardised revenue stability. 

 

With a global shift toward renewable energy, the need to diversify Brunei's economic base has become more urgent than ever. 

 

The continuity of pensions and welfare programs hinges on proactive economic reforms. 

 

The critical question is: are we ready to adapt to a future where our economy may not support our commitments as a welfare state?

 

Opportunities That Remain Untapped

 

While challenges are present, Brunei’s ageing society also offers untapped opportunities. 

 

Countries like Japan, Germany, and Singapore have successfully leveraged the 'silver economy' by developing elder-friendly products, services, and tourism hubs. 

 

Brunei has the potential to follow suit by promoting elder-friendly resorts, medical tourism, and innovative community hubs designed specifically for retirees.

 

Our elders can serve as valuable sources of wisdom and mentorship, contributing to the workforce in significant ways. 

 

However, programs designed to tap into this potential are still underdeveloped. 

 

Mentorship initiatives could not only help address youth unemployment but also provide retirees with a renewed sense of purpose. 

 

Additionally, the establishment of private aged care facilities—currently hindered by cultural resistance—could meet care needs while creating jobs. 

 

In Brunei, cultural and religious values under the MIB framework emphasise filial piety and community care for the elderly, which often discourages the use of institutionalised aged care facilities. 

 

Nevertheless, integrating these values into modern care solutions, such as elder-friendly community hubs and facilities that encourage family involvement, can help bridge this gap. Such initiatives preserve Brunei’s traditions while addressing the practical challenges posed by an ageing society.

 

Where Do We Go From Here?

 

The solutions are clear, but the commitment to act is uncertain. Here’s what needs to happen:

 

·    Invest in Preventive Healthcare: Expand medical services focused on elders, tackle non-communicable diseases at their roots, and introduce free annual health screenings for seniors.

 

·    Revamp Infrastructure: Ensure that public spaces, housing, and transportation are accessible and elder-friendly while promoting private aged care facilities as viable options.

 

·    Support the Care Economy: Develop comprehensive policies to support caregivers and professionalise caregiving, including financial incentives and skill training programs.

 

·    Leverage the Silver Economy: Position Brunei as a retirement haven and promote elder-friendly tourism and medical services to attract foreign retirees.

 

·    Foster Intergenerational Collaboration: Implement mentorship programs and create community hubs where elderly citizens can engage in meaningful activities alongside younger generations.

 

The ageing population is not a distant threat; it is a reality we are facing today. Ignoring it will not make it disappear. If we fail to act, we are not only failing our elders; we are failing ourselves and future generations. The time to act is now. (MHO/01/2025)