Making Empire Brunei Great Again

By DMAO

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, DECEMBER 2024: Recent efforts to revive The Empire Hotel & Country Club—commonly known as Empire Brunei—are beginning to show promising results, instilling renewed hope among members and stakeholders.

 

After years of concerns regarding neglect and decline, a comprehensive renovation plan is finally underway, addressing many pressing issues raised by members.

 

These developments are setting the stage for Empire Brunei to once again shine as a symbol of luxury and prestige.

 

With visible improvements in progress and a clear commitment to maintaining international standards, the journey to restore Empire Brunei's former glory is gaining momentum.

A Legacy of Excellence

When The Empire Hotel & Country Club opened its doors in October 2000, it was a marvel.

 

Built for USD 1.1 billion, this palatial property epitomised grandeur, featuring sprawling botanical gardens, opulent suites, and its crown jewel—an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus.

 

The golf course put Brunei on the world map, hosting prestigious events like the Brunei Open and the Royal Trophy, where Asia’s top golfers faced off against Europe’s finest.

 

Awards and accolades soon followed, recognising Empire Brunei as Asia's Leading Resort, with its golf course consistently ranked among the best in the region.

 

Formula One driver Jenson Button even named it his favourite hotel in the world.

 

Today, however, those awards serve as mere reminders of a bygone era. Once a jewel of Brunei’s tourism, The Empire now faces a mountain of challenges. 

The Fall from Grace

The decline began around 2011, marked by management changes and a shift in operational priorities.

 

Key positions essential for maintaining world-class standards were filled without the necessary expertise.

 

Decisions intended to improve cost-effectiveness led to visible deterioration: neglected fairways, poorly maintained facilities, and declining service quality.

 

The Empire Golf Club, once a leader in Brunei's international offerings, fell into decline, struggling to maintain the quality for which it was once celebrated.

 

Member Frustrations and Calls for Governance

This decline has not gone unnoticed by the club’s loyal members. In recent years, they have become increasingly vocal about issues of governance and management.

 

The Empire's transformation has been marred by accusations of neglect and a disregard for member concerns, with some members even facing threats of legal action for speaking out.

 

There is a palpable demand for better governance—a commitment to transparency, accountability, and open communication.

 

Management must create an environment that encourages constructive feedback rather than stifling dissent.

 

Good governance is not just about maintaining a luxurious facade; it is essential to preserving the spirit and prestige of Empire Brunei.

 

Issues such as uneven pathways, unsanitary conditions, clogged drains, and overgrown flower beds reflect a deeper problem in the facility's commitment to maintaining the high standards expected by members and international visitors alike.

Restoring the Empire

Despite these setbacks, hope remains. Renovation work has begun in earnest, with a renewed focus on elevating the facility back to international standards.

 

Visible improvements are already underway, ranging from guest facility renovations to golf course updates.

 

However, these renovations need to go beyond surface-level fixes; they must address the core issues that led to the decline, including inadequate staffing, insufficient expertise, and a lack of proactive maintenance.

 

A comprehensive restoration plan for Empire Brunei should encompass not only physical improvements but also training programs for local talent in areas such as golf course management, hospitality, and landscape upkeep.

 

This emphasis aligns with Brunei's Wawasan 2035, the nation’s long-term vision for sustainable growth.

 

Collaborations with international golfing bodies, including the PGA and the R&A, could play a significant role in ensuring Empire's return to prominence. 

Making the Empire Great Again: A Call to Action

For Empire Brunei to reclaim its status, management must commit to a holistic revival strategy that transcends superficial renovations to ensure lasting change.

 

This involves prioritising infrastructure renewal and cultural shifts within the management structure.

 

To truly make The Empire great again, governance must be transparent, standards uncompromising, and the local workforce empowered to maintain the facility with the same passion that inspired its creation.

 

Additionally, stakeholders, from Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd to government-linked entities involved in the tourism sector, must rally behind this iconic establishment.

 

Empire Brunei is not just a luxury resort; it is a national symbol. Restoring its glory goes beyond tourism—it is about reclaiming a part of Brunei’s identity and ensuring that this landmark continues to be a source of pride for generations to come.

 

Brunei faces a unique opportunity. The groundwork is being laid; the question remains whether there is enough will to follow through.

 

The decline was a slow process, but with genuine effort and investment, Empire Brunei can rise again—not merely as a luxury destination but as a beacon of Brunei’s potential on the global stage.

 

The time to act is now, and the message is clear: it is time to make Empire Brunei great again.

Making Brunei Great Again: A Look into Reigniting Brunei's Prosperity

 

Brunei finds itself at a pivotal moment—a small nation with a rich history and significant potential. Are we taking the right steps to reclaim our position among the greats? 

 

This investigative report examines the bold actions necessary to restore Brunei's greatness, drawing inspiration from the visionary legacy of Sultan Bolkiah and the aspirations of Wawasan 2035. 

 

Join us as we uncover the opportunities and challenges that could define our future. Are we prepared to create a prosperous and proud Brunei that stands tall in the region and beyond?

 

 

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

Brunei Darussalam is at a critical juncture - rich in history, culture, and potential, but facing a future that requires not just reflection but decisive action.

 

The aspiration to rekindle Brunei's greatness is not new. Are we truly leveraging the lessons from our golden past to shape our future?

 

Let us explore potential pathways to restore Brunei’s prominence, drawing inspiration from the transformative leadership of Sultan Bolkiah. 

The Glory of Sultan Bolkiah: A Legacy of Connectivity and Prosperity

During Sultan Bolkiah's reign, Brunei emerged as a formidable maritime power, extending its influence across Borneo, the Philippines, and beyond. 

 

This period was marked not by mere conquest but by a flourishing era that established Brunei as a vibrant hub of commerce, culture, and prosperity. 

 

Historical records indicate strong trade connections with China during this time, which brought significant economic wealth and cultural exchanges that enriched the kingdom. 

 

Today, we frequently discuss Brunei’s potential to reclaim such prestige, but what concrete actions are we taking to revive this spirit of connectivity?

 

Brunei must take bold steps to embrace regional partnerships and diversify its economy. It is essential to move beyond oil and invest in tourism, technology, and innovation as key drivers of growth. 

 

By reigniting its openness and willingness to engage with the region, Brunei can once again position itself as a thriving centre for commerce and culture.

Brunei’s Ambition as a Logistics and Trade Hub: The Reality Check 

Brunei aims to diversify its economy, reducing its dependence on crude oil and natural gas for future prosperity. 

 

As part of this strategy, the Government of Brunei envisioned creating Brunei Darussalam as a Service Hub for Trade and Tourism (SHuTT) by 2003. 

 

The government recognises a promising opportunity for Brunei to serve as a service hub for trade and tourism within the BIMP-EAGA - the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area. 

 

As highlighted by His Majesty the Sultan, Brunei is committed to a long-term national program of economic diversification focused on becoming a service hub for tourism across Borneo and its surrounding areas. 

 

The SHuTT program seeks to enhance key areas such as import and export through Brunei, travel to and through the country, business operations within Brunei, and communication networks linking Brunei to the region. 

 

These aspirations reflect Brunei’s ongoing ambition to establish itself as a logistics and trade hub, emphasising connectivity, convenience, and regional cooperation.

 

Brunei has long expressed its ambition to establish itself as a key logistics and trade hub in the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). While this rhetoric is promising, the question remains: how close are we to realising this vision?

 

Within the context of BIMP-EAGA, Brunei has taken steps to enhance economic cooperation, yet tangible results are still limited. The reality is that potential alone does not drive progress; strategic action does.

 

The BIMP-EAGA region boasts a population of 57 million people, offering a substantial market and resource base that Brunei can leverage.

 

Imagining Brunei as a service hub for trade and tourism is not far-fetched.

 

By capitalising on its strategic location, rich cultural heritage, and growing investment in infrastructure, Brunei has the opportunity to become a crucial link in regional connectivity, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services across the sub-region.

 

Recent initiatives, such as the decision to acquire commercial aircraft from China, demonstrate Brunei's ambition.

 

However, positioning the nation as a logistics and trade hub depends on our ability to capitalise on these developments. The question remains: will we?

 

As a nation, we must be steadfast in pursuing opportunities like open sky policies, economic zones, and trade partnerships, ensuring they deliver real benefits for our economy and citizens.

Aviation Expansion: GallopAir’s Bold Plans and the Challenges Ahead

GallopAir, Brunei’s newest airline, aims to transform the aviation landscape with an ambitious plan to serve over 30 destinations across nine countries. However, behind this enthusiasm lies a challenging reality—GallopAir is navigating uncharted territory.

 

The establishment of a regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bandar Seri Begawan could be a transformative step, positioning Brunei as a hub for aviation services.

 

Nonetheless, these plans carry significant risks and uncertainties that must be addressed through strategic foresight and robust collaboration.

 

GallopAir's partnership with the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) underscores the potential for Brunei to evolve into an aviation partner rather than merely a consumer. Yet, without consistent support from the government and community, such initiatives are at risk of faltering.

 

GallopAir faces significant regulatory challenges, and the nation must be prepared to support and integrate these developments into a broader vision for aviation connectivity.

Muara Port: The Underutilized Gem

Muara Port is often hailed as Brunei's gateway to international trade, yet questions remain about whether we are truly maximising its potential.

 

The recent expansion of the Muara Container Terminal, supported by a BND400 million investment, aims to enhance capacity and operational efficiency.

 

However, is this sufficient for Muara Port to become the vibrant hub it aspires to be within BIMP-EAGA?

 

We must consider more than just infrastructure. The partnership between Brunei's Ministry of Finance and Economy and Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group has led to notable improvements, but we also need to focus on the strategic utilisation of this asset.

 

If leveraged effectively, Muara Port could serve as the linchpin of regional trade; however, it currently remains underutilised compared to other regional ports.

 

What is lacking is a strategic initiative that links infrastructure development with solid trade incentives and proactive marketing.

China and Brunei: A Trade Relationship Waiting to Flourish

Brunei's trade relationship with China is a vital component of our aspiration to become a logistics hub. As one of Brunei's top trading partners, China offers vast opportunities.

 

While the growing volume of trade between the two nations is promising, the critical question remains - are we adequately building the infrastructure and capacity needed to facilitate this growth?

 

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China's ambitious global infrastructure development strategy, presents a unique opportunity for Brunei.

 

By aligning with the BRI, Brunei could secure the investments and connectivity necessary to enhance its trade capabilities and integrate more fully into regional and global supply chains.

 

The historical trade links between Brunei and China during Sultan Bolkiah’s reign should serve as a foundation for revitalising these ties today, paving the way for a new era of mutual economic prosperity.

 

The establishment of new air cargo capabilities, supported by recent aircraft acquisitions, indicates progress. However, the success of these initiatives relies on efficient logistics networks that can accommodate increased demand.

 

China’s market is enormous and diverse, but without the proper systems in place, Brunei risks missing out on a significant portion of that trade. 

Tourism: The Sleeping Giant

Tourism is another area where Brunei could excel, particularly with China as a primary source market.

 

China’s outbound tourism is flourishing, yet Brunei has struggled to capture a meaningful share of this market.

 

Recent enhancements in air connectivity are a positive step, but much more is needed.

 

Brunei needs to market itself—not just as a destination but as a unique experience. The rich cultural heritage, pristine rainforests, and distinctive identity of Brunei should be at the forefront of our tourism campaigns.

 

We require an aggressive marketing strategy that not only draws tourists in but also engages them, encouraging exploration of Brunei beyond Bandar Seri Begawan.

 

Tourism can unlock new business opportunities and support local economies, but we must first make Brunei stand out. 

Digital Economy: A Frontier for Growth

Brunei’s aspirations to become a digital hub are not new. Decades ago, the nation laid the foundation for leveraging information technology to drive progress and connect with the global economy.

 

Initiatives such as RAGAM 21 (Rangkaian Global Aliran Multimedia) and BICIIG (Brunei Info-Communication Infrastructure Interacting Globally) were established to position Brunei as a leader in infocommunication.

 

These initiatives aimed to create a robust infrastructure that would facilitate electronic government services, commercial activities, and integration into the global trading community.

 

The government envisioned Brunei as a service hub for trade and tourism, relying on global interconnectivity and advanced telecommunications infrastructure to realise this vision.

 

By accelerating IT adoption across both public and private sectors, Brunei aimed to enhance performance, productivity, and efficiency - key elements necessary for becoming a competitive player in the digital economy.

 

The concept of 'government online' came to fruition with initiatives like BruNet, which interconnected various government services and provided public access to information.

 

These early efforts demonstrate Brunei's commitment to leading digital transformation in the region, particularly within BIMP-EAGA and ASEAN.

 

By continuing to build on this legacy and pursuing new technological advancements, Brunei has the potential to emerge as a key digital hub in Southeast Asia, facilitating e-commerce, fintech, and other tech-driven sectors.

 

Understanding this historical context offers valuable insights into how Brunei can again lead in digital economy growth, further enhancing its role as a service hub for the BIMP-EAGA region and beyond.

 

Brunei’s potential in the digital economy represents an untapped frontier that could drive future growth, particularly within BIMP-EAGA.

 

The global shift toward digitalisation presents opportunities for Brunei to develop sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, and digital services, enabling it to become a competitive player in the regional digital economy.

 

By investing in digital infrastructure and skills, Brunei can create a dynamic and innovative environment that supports entrepreneurship and attracts tech-driven businesses.

 

Developing a robust digital economy aligns with the goals of Wawasan 2035, which emphasises the importance of cultivating a highly skilled and educated workforce that can contribute meaningfully to a modern, diversified economy.

 

Brunei must seize the digital momentum to ensure it remains competitive in the rapidly evolving global landscape.

 

Infrastructure Development: The Need for Connectivity and Convenience

Rumours of players seeking additional runways and transit facilities to accommodate rising traffic from China underscore Brunei's need for improved infrastructure.

 

The nation's ambition to become a logistics and trade hub will largely depend on how well we manage connectivity and convenience for travellers and traders alike.

 

We cannot afford to be complacent. Enhancing airport infrastructure, constructing new transit facilities, and ensuring seamless connectivity are vital to establishing Brunei as an attractive stopover and transit point in the region.

Brunei as an Islamic Financial Hub

Another promising area for Brunei is its potential as an Islamic financial hub.

 

The Brunei International Financial Centre (BIFC) can position the nation as a centre for banking, insurance, and financial services that adhere to Islamic principles.

 

By leveraging Brunei's rich Islamic heritage and strategic location, the nation could attract investment and establish itself as a trusted centre for Islamic finance in the BIMP-EAGA region and beyond.

 

With the right legislative framework and international partnerships, Brunei can enhance its reputation in the global financial market while contributing to economic diversification.

Learning from the Past: The Vision of Sultan Bolkiah

Wawasan 2035 is fundamentally about revitalising Brunei - building a nation that is educated, economically diversified, and sustainably prosperous.

 

This vision aligns closely with the legacy of Sultan Bolkiah, whose leadership transformed Brunei into a powerful maritime hub.

 

By learning from the past and merging these insights with the forward-looking ambitions of Wawasan 2035, Brunei has the potential to achieve greatness once more.

 

The legacy of Sultan Bolkiah holds particular significance today as Brunei is led by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah.

 

The parallels between Sultan Bolkiah’s golden age and the current reign are striking - both leaders are navigating complex geopolitical landscapes while striving for the prosperity and resilience of Brunei.

 

His Majesty has consistently emphasised the importance of economic diversification, regional partnerships, and cultural preservation, echoing the transformative vision of his predecessor.

 

Now, more than ever, it is crucial to uphold and build upon the legacy of Sultan Bolkiah in order to navigate the challenges of the 21st century and secure a prosperous future for Brunei.

 

Sultan Bolkiah’s era was characterised by strategic foresight, regional connectivity, and economic prosperity.

 

The strategic positioning of Brunei during his reign established the country as a centre for the spice trade, bringing wealth and influence.

 

Today, we need a similar vision - one that transcends our dependence on oil and gas and seeks opportunities in tourism, digital economies, and green industries.

 

The historical trade links between Brunei and China during Sultan Bolkiah's reign demonstrate the power of strategic partnerships.

 

Reviving and expanding these connections, especially within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), could restore Brunei's status as a vibrant commercial hub in the region.

 

The lessons from Sultan Bolkiah’s reign are clear: prosperity comes from strategic partnerships, connectivity, and cultural strength. These principles remain relevant today, but we must be bold enough to act on them.

A Call for Unity and Vision

Brunei's journey toward greatness cannot be taken alone; it demands collective action. A unified approach is essential, involving the government, private sector, communities, and, most importantly, the people.

 

This journey is not about merely recreating the past but about reimagining our future while honouring our heritage.

 

The legacy of Sultan Bolkiah teaches us that achieving greatness requires resilience, ambition, and, above all, unity.

 

The time has come for Brunei to rise to the occasion. Opportunities abound, but we must seize them with determination.

 

Let us work together to build a Brunei that is not only prosperous but also proud, resilient, and influential—a nation that stands tall in the region and the world.

 

The question remains: Are we ready to act, or will we allow these opportunities to slip through our fingers once more? (MHO/12/2024)

Making Brunei Great Again: The Struggle to Realize Vision 2035

Bold goals, unfulfilled promises, and an urgent call for change—Brunei's Vision 2035 hangs in the balance. As the nation faces a pivotal decade, systemic inefficiencies and bureaucratic barriers threaten to derail progress. Can Brunei overcome these challenges and turn aspirations into reality, or will Vision 2035 remain an elusive dream? Discover the real story behind the struggle and what must be done to reignite hope for a prosperous future.

 

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, DECEMBER 2024: The ambitious goals of Vision 2035 paint an inspiring picture of a prosperous, educated, and sustainable Brunei. However, as the years pass, the reality on the ground tells a different story—one marked by ambitions stifled by systemic inefficiencies, unfulfilled promises, and a pressing need for reform.

 

Brunei stands at a crossroads: will it bravely confront the underlying challenges that have hindered progress, or will Vision 2035 remain a dream deferred? 

 

The answer lies in our willingness to confront these issues directly, implement meaningful reforms, and reignite our passion for building a brighter future.

 

What Needs to Change? 

To achieve its ambitious goals, Brunei requires bold reforms that address systemic inefficiencies, incentivise private sector growth, and foster entrepreneurship. 

 

It is time for decisive action to implement the necessary changes for truly realising Wawasan 2035. However, these changes must extend beyond the economic realm and encompass significant improvements in non-economic sectors as well.

 

The following are key areas for non-economic reform that are vital for Brunei's progress:

 

1.     Governance and Integrity: Establishing a transparent and accountable governance structure is crucial. Strengthening institutions like the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and enforcing ethical standards for public officials can foster public trust and enhance the overall effectiveness of governance. Additionally, addressing cultural and systemic barriers that promote patronage politics is essential for creating a meritocratic society that values competence and fairness.

 

2.     Public Participation and Civic Engagement: Enhancing public participation in governance is a critical reform. Establishing platforms for public dialogue, civic education, and mechanisms that enable community involvement in decision-making processes can promote a more inclusive society. This includes empowering citizens with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities, encouraging active engagement in governance, and ensuring that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of the population.

 

3.     Education Reform: Reforming the education system to incorporate civic education centred on MIB values and promoting critical thinking is vital for nurturing informed citizens. The education system must align more closely with market needs, ensuring that graduates possess the skills required by the private sector. This alignment can help reduce unemployment and underemployment among graduates, equipping the nation’s youth to contribute meaningfully to Brunei’s progress.

 

4.     Cultural Shift Toward Accountability: Reform must also address cultural attitudes toward leadership and accountability. Leaders at all levels must adhere to principles of justice and compassion (Adil dan Beradab), ensuring observable consequences for ethical breaches. This cultural shift is essential to dismantle entrenched patronage systems and foster an environment that values transparency, integrity, and ethical governance.

 

5.     Leveraging Technology for Governance: Utilizing digital platforms can enhance transparency and improve communication between the government and its citizens. Implementing online forums and social media channels to collect public input on policies can create a more connected and informed citizenry. This approach will not only help rebuild trust but also ensure that policies reflect the diverse perspectives within society. 

 

The government must be willing to streamline bureaucratic processes and create a genuinely business-friendly environment that attracts foreign investors while nurturing local talent. 

 

The next decade will be crucial. The choices made today will determine whether Wawasan 2035 becomes a reality or remains an unfulfilled vision. 

 

Progress is evident but hindered, struggling to escape stagnation. Brunei cannot afford for its youth - its greatest asset - to seek better opportunities elsewhere. 

 

It is time to reignite the passion and promises that Vision 2035 was inspired with renewed vigour, tangible reforms, and a clear commitment to harnessing the full potential of its people.

 

The Reality on the Ground: A Growing Sense of Frustration 

On the streets of Bandar Seri Begawan, frustration is mounting. Graduates, once filled with hope and aspirations, are confronting a harsh reality.

 

"We were told that Vision 2035 would bring prosperity and opportunities," says one disillusioned young professional. "But here I am, unemployed, struggling to find a job that values my skills. It feels like the country is standing still while the rest of the world moves forward."

 

For many, the vision of a dynamic and sustainable economy seems more like a distant dream than a forthcoming reality. 

 

The potential of Brunei’s youth remains largely untapped, with many falling into either underemployment or emigration. This loss of talent hampers Brunei’s aspirations, as those who could propel the economy forward are left without meaningful opportunities to contribute. 

 
Strengths: Education and Stability. 

Brunei has made notable progress in education and overall quality of life. The education system has improved, as evidenced by Brunei’s participation in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), where the country ranked 53rd out of 77 countries in 2018. 

 

Furthermore, literacy and numeracy levels among students have improved through targeted initiatives such as the Brunei Teachers’ Standards and Literacy and Numeracy Coaching Programme (LNCP).

 

The quality of higher education institutions in Brunei has improved, as evidenced by rising rankings in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings.

 

Regarding quality of life, Brunei has made significant strides, achieving a rank of 51st out of 191 countries in the Human Development Index (HDI) by 2021. This reflects advancements in living standards and public services.

 

However, despite these strengths, a pressing question arises: Why is Brunei struggling to meet its Vision 2035 goals?

 

Weaknesses: Unemployment, Brain Drain, and Economic Dependence 

A closer examination of the nation’s employment statistics reveals its weaknesses. As of 2023, youth unemployment is alarmingly high at 16.8%, with a notable portion of this group being recent graduates.

 

Despite initiatives such as the i-Ready program and skills training courses provided by JobCentre Brunei and the Youth Development Centre, many graduates face underemployment or unemployment. 

 

The private sector's inability to absorb the increasing number of educated individuals drives many to compete for limited public sector positions.

 

Furthermore, Brunei's economic reliance on oil and gas remains a significant challenge. Although the Brunei Darussalam Economic Blueprint aims to diversify the economy, growth in the non-oil and gas sectors, including downstream industries and fisheries, has been modest, leaving the economy vulnerable to external shocks.

 

The issue of brain drain is another concern, as talented and educated Bruneians are leaving the country for better opportunities abroad. Frustration over limited career prospects and a lack of dynamic private sector opportunities have exacerbated this exodus, jeopardising the aspirations of Vision 2035.

 
Opportunities: Diversification, Innovation, and Regional Integration

Nevertheless, opportunities are available if decisive action is taken. Brunei has launched various initiatives aimed at diversifying its economy into sectors such as tourism, the digital economy, and green technology. 

 

Programs like the Industry Roadmap and Digital Economy Master Plan 2025 are designed to broaden Brunei's economic base beyond hydrocarbons.

 

To fully realise these opportunities, however, Brunei must enhance policy support, improve infrastructure, and streamline business processes.

 

Moreover, the country’s integration into the ASEAN community presents potential for regional cooperation and trade.

 

While Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) remains limited, ongoing efforts to streamline bureaucratic processes and enhance regulatory transparency are vital for building investor confidence.

 

Additionally, embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0) and the Internet of Things (IoT) could unlock new avenues for growth, fostering innovation and boosting productivity within Brunei's economy.

 

Reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and providing incentives for startups and innovation are essential for boosting Brunei's competitiveness and attracting the necessary foreign direct investment (FDI) to diversify its economy.

 

Despite these efforts, FDI inflows have remained low, and slow bureaucratic processes continue to deter potential investors.

 

Challenges: Brain Drain, Capital Leakage, and Bureaucratic Barriers 

One of the most significant threats to Brunei's economic progress is capital leakage caused by cross-border shopping, which has a considerable impact on the retail industry. 

 

Residents frequently travel across borders in search of better prices and a wider selection of goods, resulting in millions of dollars in lost revenue—funds that could have supported local businesses and stimulated economic activity. 

 

To address this challenge, it is vital to enhance local market competitiveness, diversify product offerings, and refine pricing strategies to retain consumer spending.

 

Bureaucratic inefficiencies pose another substantial obstacle. Even with efforts to improve governance, regulations designed to protect local interests often discourage investment.

 

While neighbouring countries are benefiting from globalisation and open economies, Brunei's relatively insular approach hampers its ability to attract new investment and retain its talent pool.

 

This issue is exacerbated by a slow reform process, which has limited Brunei's capacity to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing economic landscape. (MHO/12/2024)