“Mata Lalat or Mata Rakyat? The Role of Investigative Journalism in Nation-Building”

By Malai Hassan Othman

 

This is not the first time I have been labelled "mata lalat" (fly eyes) or "mata langau" (blowfly eyes) for my journalism. 

 

Throughout my career as a reporter, I have encountered officials and individuals in power who prefer to dismiss rather than address the issues I highlight. 

 

I was told that I “focus too much on the negative” and that I should “find the good stories instead of exposing weaknesses.” 

 

The latest bee eyes vs. fly eyes video, which appeared soon after my article on Brunei’s tourism issues, is just another example of this age-old tactic - implying that those who highlight flaws are simply looking for filth rather than contributing to the nation’s progress.

 

But let’s set the record straight:

 

Fly Eyes Journalism Is Not the Enemy - It Is a  Necessity

 

The truth is not always pretty. Sometimes, it reveals incompetence, inefficiency, or mismanagement. 

 

But should journalists ignore these realities for the sake of being polite? 

 

A good journalist is not here to please the authorities; a good journalist is here to serve the public.

 

When I report on:

 

o   Brunei’s tourism struggles, I am not being negative - I am pointing out what needs improvement so the sector can thrive.

 

o   Employment challenges and economic issues, I am not attacking the government - I am advocating for a better future for our youth and workforce.

 

o   Flaws in public policies, I am not being disruptive - I am encouraging solutions based on facts and public sentiment.

 

So, if that makes me “mata-lalat” in the eyes of those who want to avoid accountability, be it. But let me ask:

 

o   Is a doctor "negative" for diagnosing a patient’s illness?

 

o   Is a mechanic "destructive" for pointing out a car’s engine failure?

 

o   Is a leader "weak" for admitting flaws and working to fix them?

 

Of course not. Likewise, a journalist who investigates problems, asks tough questions, and exposes the truth is not a nuisance - he is doing his job.

 

The Real Threat to Brunei: Press Release Journalism and Management by  Deceit

 

Brunei does not suffer from too much critical - journalism - it suffers from too much press release journalism. We have enough articles filled with:

 

o   Flowery language about "successes"

 

o   Quotes from officials repeating the same talking points

 

o   Speeches filled with promises that are never followed up

 

What we lack are journalists who:

 

o   Ask difficult but necessary questions.

 

o   Follow up on past promises and hold leaders accountable.

 

o   Write not just for those in power but for the people who are affected by decisions.

 

This is why fly-eye journalism is important. Because someone has to look into the corners where others refuse to see. 

 

Someone has to uncover what is being hidden. Someone has to push for better governance, not just glorify the status quo.

 

Management by Deceit (MBD): A Culture of  Concealment

 

A more dangerous trend than mere press release journalism is Management by Deceit  - (MBD) - where problems are not solved but are instead covered up with superficial policies and empty statements. 

 

Instead of fixing broken systems, those in power manufacture success stories that exist only on paper.

 

o   Public funds are misallocated, but reports claim "efficient  spending."

 

o   Economic struggles persist, but officials cite "steady  progress."

 

o   Policies fail to deliver real impact, but leaders boast about their  "achievements."

 

MBD allows inefficiencies and corruption to fester unchecked. It enables those in power to suppress reality while maintaining an illusion of progress. And when journalists expose these deceptions, they are labelled as "negative" - as if identifying a problem is worse than allowing it to continue.

 

Moving Forward: A Stronger Media for a Stronger  Brunei

 

If Brunei wants to progress, it does not need a media that only —praises—it needs a media that educates, informs, and questions.

 

1.     More Space for Constructive Criticism

 

Journalists should not be treated as enemies for reporting inconvenient truths. The government and institutions must recognise that accountability is not an attack - it is a tool for improvement.

 

2.     A Culture of Public  Engagement

 

Rather than dismissing criticism, authorities should engage with journalists and the public in open discussions. If there are misunderstandings, clarify them. If there are mistakes, correct them. If there are valid concerns, act on them.

 

3.     Encouraging Ethical  Journalism

 

Journalists, too, have a duty - to ensure that their reporting is fair, factual, and constructive. Investigative journalism should be about truth, not personal agendas. Brunei’s media does not need to be all "bee eyes" or all "fly-eyes" - it needs both. 

 

We need the optimism of bees but also the scrutiny of flies. Because progress is not built on just seeing the good but on fixing what is broken.

 

To Those Who Call Journalists  “Flies”

 

I ask: Are you uncomfortable with the journalist, or are you uncomfortable with the truth they reveal? 

 

The more those in power resist critical journalism, the more they show that they fear accountability. But accountability is not a threat to good governance - it is a pillar of it.

 

For the past three decades, I have been called mata lalat and mata langau, but it has never demotivated me. 

 

Because in journalism, the ultimate loyalty is not to power but to the truth. You may call me ‘mata-langau,’ but I will always be ‘mata-rakyat’ - because Brunei deserves the truth. (MHO/02/2025)

 

Shiny Awards, Empty Hotels: The Truth About Brunei’s Tourism Struggles

Brunei’s tourism industry is at a crossroads. While grand plans and tourism awards paint a picture of progress, the reality tells a different story—stalled projects, empty hotels, and shrinking visitor numbers. Neighbouring destinations thrive while Brunei struggles to compete. Are these accolades a sign of real growth or just a public relations exercise masking deeper issues? Read on to uncover the billion-dollar tourism leak Brunei can no longer afford to ignore.

 By Malai Hassan Othman

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, FEBRUARY 2025: Once envisioned as a thriving hub of culture, commerce, and tourism, Brunei’s tourism industry now tells a different story. 

 

While policymakers continue to roll out master plans and vision documents, economic stagnation and public frustration are growing. 

 

Meanwhile, neighbouring destinations such as Miri, Kota Kinabalu, and even smaller ASEAN cities are aggressively expanding their tourism sectors, attracting international and Bruneian visitors, while Brunei struggles to compete.

 

Despite ambitious tourism blueprints, Brunei’s tourism sector has contributed only a modest percentage to its GDP over the past decade. 

 

In 2015 the tourism industry accounted for 7.4% of GDP, equating to B$1.62 billion. 

 

However, by 2019, this figure had declined to 5.6%, highlighting stagnation rather than growth in the sector. 

 

Compared to its ASEAN neighbours, where tourism often accounts for double-digit GDP percentages, Brunei’s tourism remains underdeveloped and underfunded.

 

The Scheherazade Syndrome: Ambitious Plans, Limited Progress

 

Brunei’s policymakers seem to be caught in what can best be described as The Scheherazade Syndrome - a never-ending cycle of white papers, tourism roadmaps, and development plans that promise transformation but fail to deliver results. 

 

Much like the legendary storyteller who kept the king entertained with unfinished tales to delay her execution, officials keep unveiling new tourism strategies, eco-tourism plans, and redevelopment projects, yet tangible progress remains elusive. 

 

At predetermined intervals - each year, each five-year plan - authorities unveil another ambitious project, another bold vision, another strategic roadmap. 

 

These documents create the illusion of action, satisfying stakeholders temporarily but with little changes on the ground. 

 

Is this deliberate mismanagement, or just poor execution? 

 

Either way, the public is growing tired of waiting for a fairytale ending that never arrives.

 

Brunei’s Stalled Tourism Development Projects 

Brunei’s failure to capitalize on its tourism potential is not limited to a single city - it is a nationwide issue, affecting projects that were supposed to drive economic diversification and job creation:

• Jerudong Park once hailed as the "Disneyland of Borneo," was meant to be a regional attraction, drawing tourists with its grand amusement rides and family-friendly entertainment. Instead, today, it stands as a shadow of its former self - underutilized, poorly marketed, and lacking new attractions to sustain interest.

• Temburong’s eco-tourism push, despite its stunning rainforests, has yet to deliver world-class adventure tourism experiences. The expensive bridge connecting it to the mainland has not resulted in a major tourism boom.

• The Bandar Seri Begawan Cultural Heritage Park, another much-hyped project, remains largely unrealised despite years of discussion.

• Luxury tourism investments remain stagnant, while other ASEAN nations rapidly expand their high-end tourism offerings.

Brunei’s Tourism Budget: A Drop in the Ocean?

 

Brunei frequently announces tourism development plans; however, the funding allocated for these initiatives pales in comparison to neighbouring regions like Miri and Sabah.

 

2022/2023: The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) received B$96 million, covering agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and tourism.

 

2023/2024: A mere B$580,000 was allocated specifically for tourism development, focusing on a Tourism Industry Roadmap and public-private partnerships.

 

2024/2025: A B$7.32 million budget was announced for a five-year plan, including upgrades to Pulau Selirong Forest Recreation Park and the Kampong Ayer Culture and Tourism Gallery.

 

Compare this to Miri and Sabah: 

• Miri received RM235 million (B$73 million) in 2025 for airport expansion to boost tourism and trade.

• Sabah allocated RM102.87 million (B$32 million) for eco-tourism and preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

 

These figures expose Brunei’s lack of serious investment in tourism, leaving the industry underfunded and uncompetitive against its neighbours.

 

While other destinations aggressively market themselves, Brunei remains passive, failing to address the root causes of its weak tourism appeal.

 

Expert Perspectives: Why is Brunei Lagging?

 

Tourism industry experts and local business owners have echoed concerns about Brunei’s lack of strategic vision in tourism. 

 

ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) notes: “Over the years, there has also been a lack of marketing and promotional campaigns to help drive the tourism sector’s growth.” ([AMRO](https://amro-asia.org/boosting-the-tourism-sector-in-brunei/))

 

The same report suggests: “Given the competitive tourism landscape in the region, Brunei should focus on establishing niche markets for its tourism sector by leveraging its rich culture and biodiversity.” 

 

A hotel staff member in Bandar Seri Begawan, who wished to remain anonymous, stated: “We have great hotels, but not enough visitors. We need better flight connections, more events, and government support to attract international tourists. Right now, we are being outpaced by regional competitors.” 

 

A tourism entrepreneur in Temburong added: “Eco-tourism is our biggest opportunity, but there is no proper promotion. Travelers don't even know about our attractions. The government needs to partner with the private sector to push this forward.”

 

Tourism Awards: A Genuine Achievement or Public Relations Strategy?

 

Brunei was recently recognised in the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards 2025, with awards given to Empire Brunei and True Living Spa for spa services, Sumbiling Eco Village for community-based tourism, and Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Shopping Complex for public toilet standards.

 

While these awards reflect certain achievements, independent observers argue that they do not address Brunei’s fundamental tourism challenges and instead serve as a strategic public relations exercise to project success despite the lack of significant industry growth. 

 

A tourism analyst noted: “Awards create good optics, but they do not change the reality that Brunei struggles to attract international tourists. The key issue remains the lack of compelling tourism products and strategic marketing.” 

 

Rather than celebrating symbolic victories, experts stress the need to focus on tourism infrastructure, international branding, and visitor experience. 

 

Without addressing these core issues, Brunei risks being perceived as a destination that wins awards but fails to bring in tourists - a textbook case of management by deception. 

 

The recent award recognising Kuala Belait as the 'Cleanest Tourist Destination' in ASEAN has further fueled public scepticism. 

 

While cleanliness is an admirable achievement, many locals question whether it truly reflects a thriving tourism industry. 

 

Kuala Belait remains a quiet town with minimal tourism activity, and some argue that the award creates a misleading perception of success while the larger tourism industry struggles. 

 

If awards continue to outpace real economic growth and visitor numbers, they risk becoming more of a smokescreen than an indication of actual progress.

 

A Path Forward: Insights from Independent Observers

 

Independent observers in the tourism sector emphasize that for Brunei to compete regionally, it must implement immediate changes:

• Fast-track long-delayed tourism projects – Tourism is a major economic driver in ASEAN, yet Brunei continues to lag behind.

• Increase tourism investment – Current funding is insufficient to develop world-class attractions and infrastructure.

• Improve tourism marketing and branding – Brunei has unique offerings but does not effectively promote itself internationally.

• Encourage private-sector involvement – Neighboring countries have successful public-private tourism models that Brunei could emulate.

• Relax visa requirements for tourists – Brunei’s stringent visa policies hinder potential visitors from exploring the country.

 

Conclusion: Can Brunei’s Tourism Industry Be Saved?

 

Bruneians are no longer content with waiting. The time for vague promises is over - Brunei’s tourism industry must take bold steps forward or risk being left behind. (MHO/02/2025)

 

 

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)