His Majesty’s new micro-finance scheme is more than just money - it’s a belief. And for thousands of young Bruneians, that belief might be the biggest breakthrough yet. It is a test of Brunei’s youth, of Bank Usahawan, and of whether Vision 2035 still has the power to inspire a nation waiting for change.
During the 20th National Youth Day celebration, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah gave an uplifting speech that many are calling a game-changer for the youth of Brunei.
He announced BizBelia, a Shariah-compliant micro-financing scheme aimed at helping young entrepreneurs step up as job creators instead of just job seekers. It’s a much-needed boost at just the right time.
“Beta menaruh harapan yang tinggi bagi inisiatif ini,” His Majesty said, expressing his belief that this initiative will spark a wave of entrepreneurial energy and economic growth from the ground up.
The BizBelia program is a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and Bank Usahawan Berhad, designed to provide financing options for young Bruneians who haven’t been able to access traditional banking due to a lack of business experience or collateral.
His Majesty’s words spoke directly to the youth, many of whom feel sidelined in Brunei’s economic goals.
He acknowledged the challenges they face, saying, “Beta sedia menyedari bahawa antara cabaran utama yang dihadapi ialah kesukaran mendapatkan pinjaman kewangan bagi memulakan perniagaan,” highlighting the obstacles that have kept young innovators from leaping.
With BizBelia, those barriers are starting to break down. It sends a message that youth-led businesses are legitimate and important for the country’s development and the Vision 2035 agenda.
“The present generation of youth possesses a strong spirit and great leadership potential,” His Majesty reminded everyone.
The response from the youth has been fantastic.
On social media and in community chats, people are calling this announcement a “milestone moment” for youth empowerment in Brunei, offering not just funding but also a sense of validation from the highest level of leadership.
This is about more than just money; it’s about belief.
While the launch of BizBelia was widely welcomed, it also sparked questions about Bank Usahawan Berhad, the institution set to deliver the scheme.
Founded in 2017 to become Brunei’s top financial institution for MSMEs, Bank Usahawan was meant to support micro and small businesses with accessible, Shariah-compliant financing.
However, many in the business community feel it hasn’t strayed far from the traditional banking model, making it tough for MSMEs and youth entrepreneurs to get the funding they need due to strict collateral rules and long wait times.
So, the BizBelia scheme is more than just a new financial product; it’s a chance for Bank Usahawan to prove itself and deliver on its promises. If done right, it could be a defining moment for the bank and the young people it aims to support.
His Majesty’s speech also carried an important warning: the same challenges that make youth vulnerable to financial exclusion can also expose them to exploitation.
He pointed out reports of Bruneian youth being targeted by international drug traffickers and job scams.
His Majesty called for a comprehensive approach that includes education, law enforcement, and strong values to protect Brunei’s youth from these dangers.
The takeaway was clear: empowerment must go hand in hand with vigilance.
Financial inclusion only matters if it helps strengthen the nation’s moral and social fabric.
In line with Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) values, His Majesty urged the youth to be not just economic drivers but also ethical leaders.
They should move forward confidently, but with discipline, respect, and a sense of shared responsibility.
BizBelia is more than just funding; it’s about building confidence. It shows that Brunei’s youth are not a problem to fix, but a solution to embrace.
As the country approaches 2035, its involvement is essential. With support from institutions like Bank Usahawan and national leadership backing them, we’re planting the seeds for a new wave of entrepreneurship.
Now, we’re all waiting to see how quickly the relevant agencies can turn this royal decree into reality with BizBelia.
For youth who have been waiting for a breakthrough, the countdown has already started. And for a nation still pursuing its Vision 2035 dream, this announcement could be a pivotal moment.
When a Sultan puts his trust in the youth, the nation has every reason to believe something amazing is about to happen. (MHO/08/2025)
.jpeg)
No comments:
Post a Comment