"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)

Brunei's Struggle with Brain Drain Amid Wawasan 2035 Aspirations

As Brunei Darussalam races toward its ambitious Wawasan 2035 goals, a troubling trend threatens to derail its vision—a growing exodus of unrecognised and undervalued talents, dismissed by some as "problem kids" for seeking opportunities abroad. Why are Brunei’s brightest minds turning away despite calls for loyalty and service? This revealing report delves into the clash between national aspirations and government indifference, exposing the urgent need for reforms to respect and retain the talent that could shape Brunei’s future.

 

 

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, NOVEMBER 2024: In 2008, Brunei Darussalam introduced Wawasan Brunei 2035, an ambitious vision aimed at creating a highly educated, skilled, and accomplished populace, fostering a high quality of life and building a dynamic, sustainable economy by 2035.

 

It served as a roadmap to ensure prosperity long after the nation's oil reserves ran dry. 

 

However, as the year 2035 approaches, Brunei faces an unsettling paradox: the very citizens it seeks to elevate are leaving in droves. 

 

The brain drain phenomenon, often dismissed by some within the government as inconsequential or reflective of less-valued talent, is much broader - it deeply affects both overseas-educated scholars and graduates from Brunei's universities, raising pressing questions about the nation's future.

 

An Economy Trapped in Old Structures 

Brunei's economic reliance on oil and gas limits its sectoral diversity and growth. 

 

Efforts to broaden the economic base have been slow, resulting in a labour market dominated by public-sector employment. 

 

Both overseas-educated Bruneians and local graduates from institutions such as Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) enter a job market with limited opportunities for advancement, innovation, or competitive pay.

 

The 21st Century National Education System (SPN21) aims to prepare a skilled workforce through specialised programs in both vocational and academic streams, yet the country's economy has struggled to match this supply with demand.

 

Moreover, government and institutional attitudes often fail to recognise the contributions and potential of those who choose to leave, viewing their departure as a sign of inadequacy or personal dissatisfaction rather than a symptom of systemic economic issues. 

 

As Brunei invests heavily in free education from primary through tertiary levels, the outflow of graduates, especially scholarship recipients, has become a growing concern.

 

The Weight of Unemployment and Underemployment

Recent labour statistics reveal the extent of the challenge facing Brunei's youth. 

 

In 2021, youth unemployment stood at a high of 16.3% - a level much higher than adult unemployment rates. 

 

The limited availability of formal jobs with adequate career growth prospects impacts not only foreign-educated graduates but also those trained locally. 

 

The high dropout rate of men from tertiary education, driven by differing career interests and early entry into security and uniformed services, further complicates this issue, resulting in a gender imbalance at the higher education level that affects workforce composition and the availability of skilled labour. 

 

Underemployment is a pressing issue affecting all graduates. Despite years of higher education, many young professionals must settle for part-time work or roles unrelated to their fields. 

 

For some within the government, this is viewed as an inevitable outcome, further diminishing the perceived value of these individuals and exacerbating their desire to seek opportunities elsewhere. 

 

The Voices of a Disillusioned Generation

Aliya (not her real name), a graduate of a prestigious foreign university, returned to Brunei with high hopes. 

 

"I wanted to contribute to Wawasan 2035, but there was no room for my skills," she shared, reflecting on her frustrations after months of job hunting. 

 

She ultimately left for Singapore, where her talents in the service sector are valued. "Leaving home was hard, but staying meant stagnation." 

 

Ahmad (also not his real name), a mechanical engineer, now works in Australia. 

 

After facing underemployment in Brunei, he sought better opportunities abroad. 

 

"I have friends who stayed - they're stuck in roles that don't respect their qualifications," he explained. 

 

"It's not just about money; it's about growth and respect for what we bring." 

 

Such sentiments are often dismissed, with departures attributed to individual dissatisfaction rather than systemic failings. 

 

These experiences resonate with many local graduates from institutions such as UBD, UTB, and Politeknik Brunei.

 

The SPN21 framework aims to create a workforce reflective of the nation's needs, yet many graduates find themselves without suitable opportunities. 

 

One UBD graduate put it bluntly: "I studied locally because I believed in building my career here. 

 

But the job market doesn't match what we were trained for." Like many, he found himself underemployed and eventually decided to seek work abroad. 

 

A Symptom of Deeper Issues

The informal economy has become a refuge for some Bruneians, including graduates from vocational and technical programs. 

 

Faced with limited formal employment options, many turn to unregistered businesses, online ventures, or informal service work. 

 

This reliance on informal employment reflects both economic challenges and a system that fails to fully harness the skills and potential of its youth. 

 

"Without stable opportunities, we become invisible to the system," said one young entrepreneur, who spoke anonymously about his struggles within the informal sector.

 

The Sultan's Call: Loyalty Meets Harsh Realities 

His Majesty the Sultan has consistently urged Bruneian students who have studied abroad to fulfil their obligations and repay the nation’s investment. 

 

"Students who pursue their studies abroad must acknowledge that they are not just for themselves but also the nation," he stated. 

 

"Regardless of whether they are self-financed or bonded to the government, they could not shun the responsibility towards the government after finishing their studies."

 

Expressing his disappointment, he added, "Sadly, there are people who have chosen not to serve their own country after completing their studies. 

 

Whatever the reason is, these matters are against the etiquettes and are also non-patriotic." 

 

His Majesty called for loyalty and a patriotic spirit, stressing that "the nation's interests come first before the individuals themselves."

 

Yet, for many, loyalty and a patriotic spirit alone cannot outweigh economic realities. 

 

"I'm loyal and love my country, but loyalty and patriotic spirit cannot pay the bills," remarked a local returnee, reflecting on the struggle to find meaningful employment. 

 

For some policymakers, the reluctance to acknowledge the talents and contributions of those who leave only deepens their sense of disillusionment and alienation. 

 

Constructive Solutions: Bridging the Gap

 

To retain and fully utilise its talent, Brunei must address systemic issues head-on. Here are key recommendations:

• Revitalise the Private Sector: Brunei needs a thriving private sector to create meaningful jobs. Easing regulatory constraints, providing incentives for startups, and fostering public-private partnerships can stimulate growth and innovation.

• Competitive Compensation: Offering competitive salaries and benefits is essential to retain skilled professionals. Matching wages with regional competitors can make Brunei a more attractive place to work.

• Flexible Career Pathways: The government could introduce flexible programs to allow graduates to pursue specialised training or temporary placements abroad while committing to return and serve. This could foster greater loyalty and long-term retention.

• Economic Diversification: Accelerating efforts to diversify beyond oil and gas is vital. Focus should be placed on high-growth sectors such as technology, finance, and creative industries, providing pathways for new talent.

• Cultural and Social Reforms: Addressing restrictive social norms and creating a more inclusive, innovation-friendly environment can attract and retain talent, making Brunei a place where people want to work and thrive.

 

Conclusion: From Aspiration to Reality 

Brunei’s brain drain poses a formidable challenge to achieving Wawasan 2035. 

 

While loyalty and patriotism remain vital, they must be matched with real opportunities and systemic reforms. 

 

Only by creating a dynamic, inclusive economy and valuing its talented citizens can Brunei hope to transform its vision into a thriving reality.  (MHO/11/2024)