Why Not?
For decades, Belait has powered Brunei’s economy. But as oil declines, what’s next?
China has pledged support for Brunei’s economic diversification, aligning BRI with Wawasan 2035. New opportunities in trade, logistics, AI-driven industries, and green energy are on the horizon.
Why not turn Anduki into a cargo hub?
Why not develop Belait River into a Maritime Industrial Corridor?
Why not position Belait as a regional aviation and trade hub?
The choices we make today will shape Belait’s tomorrow. The opportunity is here. The moment is now.
BUAT TIA! Let’s make Belait great again!
Why Not? The BRI-Wawasan 2035 Synergy as a Turning Point for Belait’s Future
By Malai Hassan Othman
BELAIT – For decades, Belait District has powered Brunei’s economy. It is home to oil and gas, the backbone of the nation's wealth.
But times are changing. Oil production is declining. Job opportunities are shrinking. Businesses relying on the energy sector are struggling to survive.
Now, a new hope emerges. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) aligns with Brunei’s Vision 2035.
Could this partnership transform Belait’s future?
During his state visit to China on February 6,,2025, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah reaffirmed Brunei’s commitment to economic transformation:
“Brunei Darussalam is committed to building a strong and sustainable economy by attracting foreign investments, fostering economic growth, and creating opportunities for its people and businesses.”
President Xi Jinping echoed this sentiment during their bilateral meeting in Beijing, emphasizing, “China and Brunei should enhance the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and Wawasan 2035, strengthening bilateral cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and trade.”
Additionally, President Xi pledged that China would support Brunei’s economic diversification efforts by encouraging Chinese enterprises to invest in high-tech industries, renewable energy, and modernised infrastructure to accelerate Brunei’s transition into a knowledge-based economy.
This means more than just agreements. It could bring infrastructure, trade, and investment. But will it truly benefit the people of Belait?
A New Lifeline for Belait?
For years, businesses in Belait have struggled. Procurement, logistics, and services - once thriving under oil and gas - are now seeing fewer contracts. Unemployment is rising. Many youths find it hard to secure jobs. Workers who spent decades in the energy sector are unsure of their future.
The government is pushing for economic diversification. This partnership with China could help. But what does it mean for local businesses?
One possibility is the redevelopment of Anduki Airfield into a cargo hub. If upgraded, it could serve as a key link for BIMP-EAGA trade.
His Majesty has long emphasised Brunei’s potential to become a logistics and trade center in the region, stating:
“The close partnership under the Brunei-Guangxi Economic Corridor and the Muara Container Terminal with Beibu Gulf will position the Sultanate as a potential regional logistics hub and serve as a gateway to ASEAN, the BIMP-EAGA and beyond.”
Another underutilised asset is the Belait River, which has the potential to be transformed into a Maritime Industrial Corridor. With proper investment, it could support shipbuilding, aquaculture, and port activities, creating new employment opportunities while improving Brunei’s connectivity with regional trade networks.
President Xi further reassured China’s commitment to Brunei’s economic diversification, stating:
“China supports Brunei’s efforts in economic diversification, digital economy development, and infrastructure expansion, and will encourage Chinese enterprises to participate in these initiatives.”
As part of this commitment, China has offered investment incentives in Brunei’s renewable energy sector and is supporting the establishment of an AI-driven industrial park in collaboration with local enterprises.
This means greater demand for logistics, warehousing, transportation, and aviation-related services. It could also attract new industries and create jobs.
Gallop Air, Brunei’s second airline, is also part of this shift. It plans to connect Brunei with China, ASEAN, and beyond.
Could this turn Belait into a regional aviation hub? Could local businesses benefit from new supply chains and contracts?
Ensuring Brunei Maximizes These Opportunities
Independent economic observers believe that to ensure Bruneians truly benefit from these developments, policymakers must take proactive steps:
- Mandate Local Content Requirements – Foreign investors should be required to allocate a percentage of contracts and employment opportunities to Bruneian firms and workers.
- Strengthen Workforce Training – Establish specialized vocational training programs in logistics, AI, and renewable energy to prepare locals for new job markets.
- Introduce Investment Safeguards – Ensure that Brunei retains ownership stakes in strategic industries to prevent overreliance on foreign firms.
- Accelerate SME Support Programs – Provide tax incentives and funding opportunities for local businesses to integrate into global supply chains.
- Enhance Digital Infrastructure – Invest in high-speed internet and smart technology to support the digital economy and attract global investors.
- Promote Green Energy Initiatives – Support solar, wind, and other renewable projects to align with global sustainability trends and attract eco-conscious investors.
- Expand Financial Incentives for Startups – Offer low-interest loans and grants to encourage local entrepreneurs to venture into new industries.
- Develop Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Encourage collaboration between the government and the private sector to drive innovation and infrastructure growth.
Final Thought: Will Brunei Seize This Opportunity?
The foundation for transformation has been laid. Investments are pledged, partnerships are forming, and economic diversification is in motion.
Yet, the real question remains - will Brunei take bold and decisive steps to turn these prospects into lasting progress?
Will the nation capitalize on this moment to solidify its position as a regional economic force?
Will policymakers prioritize local empowerment and sustainable growth?
Will businesses and entrepreneurs seize the opportunities emerging from this strategic partnership?
The path forward is clear. The time for hesitation has passed. BUAT TIA! Let's make Belait great again! (MHO/02/2025)
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