Breaking the Katak Bawah Tempurong Mindset: Brunei’s Leap Forward

For years, the katak bawah tempurong story has been told as a lesson - not about weakness, but about perspective. The frog under the coconut shell once thought its world was complete until cracks appeared, letting in glimpses of something bigger. It was never about abandoning the shell but realising its limits and the need to grow beyond it.

Brunei, too, has thrived under a secure and familiar economic shell built on oil and gas wealth. But today, that shell is shrinking, and the world outside is changing. 

Global markets are shifting, industries are evolving, and the question before us is clear: Do we stay within the old tempurong, or do we expand it to embrace new possibilities?

This is not about leaving behind what has sustained us - it is about building a larger, stronger, and more connected Brunei. A Brunei that thrives in trade, technology, tourism, and innovation. A Brunei that stands at the centre of the ASEAN economy, not at its edges.

The time has come to reshape our future. The tempurong must grow so we too can grow. Will we take the leap?

By DMAO/MHO

Brunei stands at a crossroads. For decades, it has found comfort under the tempurong of oil and gas wealth, but that shell is now cracking. 

The global energy shift, economic stagnation, and rising uncertainty have exposed the fragility of over-reliance on a single industry. 

The Malay proverb Katak Bawah Tempurong - a frog confined under a coconut shell, unaware of the world beyond - perfectly mirrors Brunei’s predicament. 

Will we stay in our shrinking comfort zone, or will we break free and leap toward a future of possibilities? 

A recent series of expert discussions with economic analysts, former government officials, and business leaders underscores the urgency of reform. 

These discussions revealed common concerns about Brunei’s economic diversification, fiscal responsibility, governance transparency, infrastructure, workforce development, and sustainability. 

From these talks, the SHUTTT framework emerged - a roadmap emphasising investments in State reserves, Human capital, Urban infrastructure, Trade, Technology, and Tourism to create resilience in a post-oil economy. 

The Reality on the Ground

The impact of economic decline is no longer confined to boardroom discussions - it is felt in the streets, in homes, and businesses. 

Roslan, a small restaurant owner in Kuala Belait, once had a bustling eatery serving expat oil workers. Now, he watches empty tables and worries about paying rent. 

The exodus of expatriate families due to downsizing and company closures is hurting local businesses, pushing the rental market into decline and leaving once-thriving restaurants struggling to survive. 

Nurul’s family, once secure thanks to her father’s oil industry job, now faces financial uncertainty after his retrenchment. 

Zarina, a fresh graduate, sent out over 50 job applications but received no offers, as companies prioritise experienced foreign hires over local talent. 

Their stories are not isolated - they reflect a wider economic reality that Brunei must address.

The Need for a Bigger Tempurong

Brunei’s BND 3.1 billion budget deficit is evidence that change is no longer an option - it is a necessity. 

Financial experts stress that Brunei’s reserves must not sit idle but should be actively invested in wealth funds, high-growth industries, and national infrastructure. 

Countries like Singapore’s Temasek Holdings have demonstrated how state reserves can generate billions in revenue through smart investments. 

To transition from dependency to sustainability, Brunei must:

Ö  Expand revenue sources through digital taxation, SME incentives, and formalising the informal economy.

Ö  Develop Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to finance key infrastructure projects.

Ö  Introduce growth-linked bonds to ensure economic expansion aligns with financial security. 

Beyond Oil: Building an Inclusive Economy

Brunei’s economy needs more than just oil - it needs a diversified portfolio. 

Some districts have already taken small but promising steps: 

Ö  Tutong’s agrotourism and organic farming have positioned it as a potential food security hub. 

Ö  Temburong’s ecotourism efforts are attracting international visitors, proving that Brunei can monetise its natural beauty. 

Ö  Belait, once an oil powerhouse, has the potential to be transformed into a regional trade and logistics hub. With its strategic location and access to industrial zones, Belait can be positioned as a key player in ASEAN’s trade network, linking up with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for greater regional economic integration. 

More importantly, Belait can serve as a gateway to the BIMP-EAGA economy, leveraging its position as the backyard economy of ASEAN. 

By integrating with the broader regional market, Belait could facilitate greater trade, industrial cooperation, and cross-border investments, helping to diversify Brunei’s economy beyond oil and gas. 

These success stories should not remain small experiments - they should be scaled up nationally. 

The SHUTTT framework provides a clear action plan for economic transformation:

🔹 State Reserves - Reinvest profits into infrastructure, technology, and education.

🔹 Human Capital - Develop AI, fintech, and green technology training programs.

🔹 Urban Infrastructure - Expand Muara Port and Anduki Airport for trade and  

      logistics.

🔹 Trade & Technology - Boost halal exports, digital services, and tech startups.

🔹 Tourism - Expand eco-lodges, adventure tourism, and Islamic heritage tourism.

Trust in Governance: A Missing Link

Economic policies alone will not restore confidence - transparency is key. 

Haji Salleh, a retired government officer, echoes a growing sentiment: 

“We hear about billion-dollar projects, but where does the money go? The public deserves to know.” 

Without governance and reforms, even the best economic strategies will fail.

✅ Introduce an Independent Fiscal Oversight Committee to track public spending.

✅ Strengthen institutional accountability in major development projects.

✅ Engage the public in economic, planning, ensuring policies benefit all Bruneians. 

Future-Ready Workforce: Bridging the Gap

A modern economy demands skilled talent, yet 40% of high-skilled jobs in Brunei are held by foreign workers. Without workforce reform, Brunei’s youth will be left behind. 

✅ Invest in STEM and digital education to align with emerging industries.

✅ Mandate skill-building programs for job seekers and professionals.

✅ Ensure foreign workforce policies prioritise Bruneians for high-value roles. 

A Sustainable Brunei: Green Growth or Stagnation?

Brunei cannot afford to ignore environmental responsibility. Illegal logging, weak enforcement, and resource depletion pose long-term threats.

✅ Accelerate renewable energy projects like solar farms and hydroelectric plants.

✅ Enforce strict environmental regulations with digital monitoring.

✅ Support carbon-neutral industries with tax incentives and funding. 

Breaking Free or Falling Behind?

Brunei is at a defining moment. The oil wealth that once built our nation is no longer a guarantee of security. 

We can either cling to the shrinking tempurong, hoping for stability that no longer exists, or expands our horizons, embrace new industries and shape a future of resilience and growth. 

Do we choose to remain under the old shell, or do we build a bigger one - one that allows us to see beyond, grow, and embrace the world while keeping our values and identity intact? The time to leap is now. The tempurong is too small for Brunei’s dreams. (DMAO/MHO/03/2025)

 

Brunei’s Big Promises: LegCo Unveils Bold Plans, But Can They Deliver?

Brunei’s future is on the line. Bold plans, billion-dollar budgets, and sweeping reforms - yet scepticism lingers. Will grand promises turn into real progress? Or will execution gaps and delays continue to frustrate Bruneians? As LegCo debates economic transformation, infrastructure overhauls, and social reforms, the nation watches closely. Will this be the turning point or just another cycle of unmet expectations?

By Malai Hassan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan, March 6, 2025 – The sixth day of Brunei’s Legislative Council (LegCo) deliberations exposed a nation in transition.

Bold economic blueprints clashed with real-world frustrations. Lofty promises met scrutiny.

Policymakers unveiled grand strategies, yet public concerns remained.

The government set out sweeping plans: digital transformation, climate commitments, and economic diversification.

Ministers spoke of progress. Legislators pressed for results. The public, however, seeks tangible benefits.

Beneath the polished narratives, hard truths emerged. Brunei’s economic future remains uncertain.

Economic Realities: Vision Versus Ground Truths

LegCo debates centred on Brunei’s push for sustainability and economic resilience.

The Brunei Darussalam Climate Change Policy (BNCCP) was hailed as a landmark commitment. Targets were met, and emissions fell. Yet, scepticism lingered.

YB Hajah Rosmawatty questioned the direct impact of green initiatives. She asked whether local businesses truly benefited.

The Minister’s response was telling: “Brunei’s green industry is still in its infancy.” 

That admission exposed a gap. Climate policies exist. Green jobs, however, remain scarce.

Foreign technology dominates solar projects. Local participation is minimal.

Critics argue that Brunei risks becoming a passive observer in its sustainability drive.

Without skilled local involvement, economic diversification remains rhetorical. 

$34 million has been allocated under the CREATES initiative to spur innovation in renewables, but execution challenges remain.

Brunei’s digital transformation was another focal point. Brunei Digital Identity (BDI), a national digital ID, is set for rollout.

It promises efficiency. The public, however, questions security and usability. A six-month pilot aims to address concerns, yet past digital initiatives have faced slow adoption.

Meanwhile, artificial intelligence governance is taking shape. The formation of the Working Group on AI Governance & Ethics with 24 agencies signals a regulatory push.

The government wants Brunei to embrace AI, but oversight is crucial to prevent ethical pitfalls.

Foreign investment strategies were also dissected. Industrial expansion demands robust infrastructure.

YB Pengiran Haji Isa raised concerns over electricity stability. Can Brunei sustain incoming investments? Ministers assured adequacy.

Two new power plants are planned. Energy security, they claim, is guaranteed. Yet, power-hungry industrial projects demand long-term solutions.

The government now encourages private companies to integrate solar solutions. But who bears the cost? Investors? Consumers? 

The discussion left economic implications unanswered.

Infrastructure: Promises and Persistent Shortfalls

Brunei’s infrastructure overhaul dominated proceedings. A total of B$750 million has been allocated for national development projects under RKN-12, covering water security, roads, and flood mitigation.

Water security remains a national concern. The Bukit Barun Water Treatment Plant expansion promises a 29% capacity boost.

On paper, future shortages seem mitigated. Yet, rural areas continue to report intermittent supply. Upgrades are slow. Officials blame technical constraints.

Flood mitigation strategies sparked scrutiny. January’s torrential rains left many homes inundated. Flash floods are worsening.

The government rolled out plans: Sungai Kedayan flood mitigation, Pasai/Mulaut drainage projects, and new stormwater retention ponds. 

Yet, historical delays haunt such promises. Cost overruns plague projects. Will new initiatives succeed where past efforts failed? 

Residents in flood-prone areas remain sceptical. They’ve heard solutions before. Execution is what counts.

Brunei’s road network is also under transformation. The Tungku Highway widening aims to reduce congestion. The Tanah Jambu-Mentiri flyover promises smoother commutes. These projects excite motorists.

But delays and cost escalations have plagued road expansions before. Potholes remain a daily frustration. Some roads in national housing schemes are deteriorating. Progress must translate into on-the-ground impact.

Public Transport Revamp: Can It Deliver?

A new public transportation overhaul is on the way, but details remain vague.

Under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the government will work with private firms to modernise Brunei’s bus system. A 10-year contract is under negotiation, with a focus on sustainable, efficient transport.

The government has committed B$40 million toward infrastructure improvements, including new bus terminals and digital tracking systems.

However, one challenge remains: ridership is still low. The government is reviewing financial incentives to attract investment, but public engagement is key. Will Bruneians embrace a revamped system, or will empty buses continue to haunt the roads?

Housing and the Middle-Income Squeeze

Brunei’s housing agenda continues to face scrutiny. The National Housing Scheme (RPN) remains the backbone of homeownership.

New projects are underway: RPN Lugu Phase 2, Tanah Jambu Phase 7, and Kampong Lumut Phase 7. 

Despite progress, backlogs persist. Demand outweighs supply. Young families remain on waitlists. Homeownership feels increasingly unattainable.

A bigger issue looms: middle-income earners not qualifying for government housing yet unable to afford private homes. 

The government is considering public-private partnerships (PPPs) to fund affordable housing. Private developers may receive incentives to build low-cost homes. Will this work? The private sector’s role in housing remains untested.

Meanwhile, older RPN estates are deteriorating. Roof leaks, broken drainage, and neglected parks plague ageing developments.

Rehabilitation programs exist. B$100 million has been allocated for the refurbishment of ageing RPN estates, but progress is slow. 

Execution lags. Homeownership must be more than just a policy. It must ensure lasting livability.

Public Sentiment: Confidence or Concern?

LegCo’s sixth day offered a paradox. Brunei’s leadership showcased ambition.

The nation’s roadmap looks bold. Yet, gaps in execution persist. Policies sound promising. Real-world results, however, remain elusive.

Economic diversification is the government’s mantra. Yet, oil dependency lingers.

Infrastructure is expanding. Yet, aging systems struggle.

Youth policies are proactive. Yet, societal issues persist.

Bruneians want change they can feel: efficient transport, uninterrupted water, economic opportunity.

These are not mere aspirations; they are necessities.

Government rhetoric must translate into reality.

Ministers spoke with confidence. Legislators challenged with urgency. The public, watching from afar, remains cautiously hopeful.

The next LegCo session will reveal whether today’s promises become tomorrow’s progress. (MHO/03/2025)

 

Brunei’s Leaders Face Mounting Pressure as LegCo Debates Inflation, Healthcare, and Jobs

Brunei at a Crossroads: Can Leaders Deliver on Inflation, Healthcare, and Jobs?

✅ BND 400 million in subsidies—but is it enough?

✅ Rising Hajj costs—can Bruneians afford their religious duty?

✅ Long hospital wait times—when will healthcare improve?

✅ Foreign workers vs. local jobs—who really benefits?

✅ Illegal logging—will Brunei’s forests survive?

Brunei’s 5th Day LegCo session revealed hard-hitting truths and tough questions.

✅ Promises were made, but will real action follow?

➡ Read the full report—What was debated, what was promised, and what it means for you. 

By Malai Hassan Othman

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, MARCH 2025: The 5th Day of Brunei’s Legislative Council (LegCo) session exposed urgent national issues, from inflation to public healthcare, taxation, labour policies, and economic sustainability. 

Lawmakers engaged in critical debates, challenging government leaders on subsidy sustainability, healthcare accessibility, foreign workforce policies, and Brunei’s economic resilience amid global uncertainties. 

Ministerial responses highlighted policy adjustments and strategic reforms. However, concerns remained over execution timelines, enforcement mechanisms, and whether these measures would bring tangible relief to the people.

Inflation, Subsidy Pressures, and Fiscal Concerns

Government subsidies, now reaching BND 400 million annually, continue shielding citizens from soaring costs, yet questions persist over long-term affordability and fiscal burden. 

LegCo members pressed for targeted subsidy reforms, urging direct financial aid for low-income groups while pushing for stronger diversification efforts. 

Some called for a tiered subsidy structure based on income levels, while others recommended tax incentives for local businesses to ease inflation’s impact. 

"We must ensure subsidies reach those who truly need them and do not encourage over-reliance," one member stated, emphasising fiscal responsibility and accountability. 

Some members also questioned whether Brunei should rethink its approach to food security, advocating increased domestic food production to reduce import dependency.

Hajj Costs, Accessibility Concerns, and Pilgrim Support Measures

The rising cost of Hajj pilgrimage packages and the long waiting period for Bruneian pilgrims were heavily debated, with lawmakers urging reforms. 

LegCo members voiced affordability concerns, noting that many citizens struggle to fulfil this religious obligation due to financial constraints and travel quotas. 

The Minister of Religious Affairs acknowledged these concerns, announcing that the government is reviewing pricing structures and travel arrangements to ease burdens on pilgrims.

"Hajj is a fundamental religious duty, and we must explore ways to make it accessible without imposing excessive financial strain," the Minister stated. 

Discussions also touched on the efficiency of Hajj registration systems and the possibility of financial aid schemes for lower-income pilgrims.

Healthcare Crisis: Long Waiting Periods, Dental Shortages, and Insurance Gaps

The healthcare sector was a focal point, with concerns over long waiting periods for specialist treatments, dental service shortages, and the need for digitalisation. 

The Minister of Health acknowledged these issues, outlining measures such as increased workforce recruitment, technology adoption, and public-private collaborations to alleviate pressure. 

He announced plans to introduce digital health records by 2026, aiming to streamline patient management and reduce wait times. 

LegCo members, however, remained sceptical, demanding clear implementation timelines, measurable performance indicators, and accountability in monitoring progress, warning that prolonged delays would further strain public confidence. 

Mandatory medical insurance for foreign workers was also debated, with members questioning its affordability for businesses and enforcement effectiveness to prevent policy loopholes.

Foreign Workforce, Immigration Reforms, and Local Employment Protections

Brunei’s new Long-Term Pass policy seeks to attract foreign investors and skilled professionals, granting five-year residency for those contributing to national economic growth. 

LegCo members raised concerns about potential job market competition, urging strict employment eligibility to prevent displacing local workers from high-skilled jobs. 

"Investment is welcome, but our policies must prioritize Bruneians in the job market," one member argued, reflecting broader national employment anxieties. 

Additionally, data from the Labour Department revealed a post-pandemic surge in foreign workers, with key industries like construction and retail heavily reliant on non-local labour.

Tackling Unpaid Municipal Taxes and Strengthening Economic Accountability

A staggering BND 26 million in unpaid municipal taxes prompted calls for stricter enforcement, digital tax reforms, and improved collection mechanisms to bolster national revenue.

The Minister of Home Affairs assured LegCo of upcoming system enhancements, including the introduction of an online tax payment system to improve compliance and reduce tax evasion. 

He urged businesses and property owners to fulfil obligations to support public infrastructure projects.

SME Support, Economic Diversification, and Growth Strategies

LegCo members highlighted persistent struggles faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), stressing limited access to financing, bureaucratic hurdles, and slow adaptation to digital transformation. 

Government officials pledged increased financial support, training programs, and simplified regulatory procedures, though some members urged faster execution to prevent further business stagnation. 

"SMEs are the backbone of our economy. Delays in support mechanisms only weaken our long-term economic resilience," one member stated, pushing for more proactive reforms.

Environmental Protection, Illegal Logging, and Sustainability Efforts

LegCo members raised concerns over environmental degradation, illegal logging, and wildlife trafficking, urging stronger enforcement and policy interventions to safeguard Brunei’s natural resources. 

The Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism assured that enforcement measures are being enhanced, with increased surveillance, digital tracking, and stricter penalties for offenders. 

"Illegal logging threatens our ecosystem and national sustainability," the Minister stated.

"We are expanding patrols and deploying drone technology to combat these unlawful activities." 

Members also pressed for better public engagement, advocating educational campaigns to raise awareness of environmental conservation and community-driven sustainability programs.

Conclusion: Public Expectations and Government Accountability

Brunei’s leaders face mounting pressure to ensure these legislative discussions translate into meaningful, timely action benefiting businesses, workers, and the broader public. 

LegCo members cautioned against policy delays, emphasizing that public patience is thinning, and economic challenges require swift, transparent execution of promised reforms. 

Public trust hinges on government efficiency - bold policies must yield measurable outcomes, or frustrations will escalate, shaping future economic and political discourse in Brunei. (MHO/03/2025)

Brunei’s $3.1 Billion Deficit, Corruption Crackdown, and Cyber Threats: LegCo Faces Nation’s Biggest Challenges

By Malai Hassan Othman

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, MARCH 2025: Brunei’s Legislative Council (LegCo) entered its fourth day of deliberations on March 4 2025, tackling fiscal sustainability, governance integrity, and national security concerns.

 

$3.1 Billion Budget Deficit Sparks Debate

Brunei’s BND 6.35 billion budget remains under scrutiny, with concerns about a BND 3.1 billion fiscal deficit raised by legislators. 

Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adnan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Md Yusof warned, "Economic diversification is not progressing fast enough. We must rethink revenue collection and optimise spending." 

Comparing previous years, Brunei’s deficit has widened significantly from BND 2.4 billion in 2023/24, signalling a continued reliance on oil and gas revenues.

The government reassured its commitment to new tax frameworks and foreign direct investment (FDI) incentives to bridge the revenue gap. 

Adding to the concern, Brunei projects US$1.82 billion in revenue from oil and gas in the new fiscal year, reinforcing fears that diversification efforts remain sluggish. 

The Minister of Finance and Economy emphasised that non-oil and gas revenues are expected to reach US$595.46 million, indicating gradual but insufficient economic transformation. 

Crackdown on Corruption Gains Momentum

Anti-corruption measures took centre stage as the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office reaffirmed strict enforcement under the Anti-Corruption Act (Penggal 131). 

"Corruption, whether big or small, erodes national trust and progress," the Minister stated, calling for internal integrity units in all ministries. 

Since its establishment in 1982, Brunei’s Anti-Corruption Bureau has investigated 2,469 cases, with 231 convictions. 

Additionally, 260 public servants have been dismissed or reprimanded for exploiting their positions, highlighting a persistent governance challenge. 

Legislators urged more transparency in government procurement, financial reporting, and civil service accountability. 

A senior LegCo member added, “Without strict monitoring, financial mismanagement will continue to burden national resources.”

Cybersecurity and Digital Fraud on the Rise

Brunei’s cybercrime landscape is evolving, with 82 scam websites and 557 fraudulent numbers blocked in 2024, the Minister of Transport and Infocommunications revealed. 

In response, the government announced SIM card re-registration, stricter cybersecurity regulations, and partnerships with tech giants like Meta (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram). 

However, cybercrime remains a major concern, with BND 5 million lost to online scams in 2024, a 100% increase from the previous year. 

Chief Inspector Adinin bin Haji Ahmad from the Cyber Crime Investigation Division warned that scammers are exploiting digital vulnerabilities, making regulatory adaptation a pressing necessity. 

A special task force, including banks and law enforcement agencies, is being formed to counter digital financial fraud. 

A cybersecurity expert warned, “Cybercriminals are evolving faster than regulations. Without continuous updates to our cybersecurity policies, financial fraud will rise.”

Border Security and Brunei-Malaysia Land Demarcation

Legislators reviewed progress on the 528.45km Brunei-Malaysia border, demarcation, with 175.96km completed so far. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs II confirmed a commitment to finalising land boundary agreements with Malaysia by 2034 to enhance border security and prevent smuggling. 

Historical complexities continue to play a role, with disputed claims over maritime and land territories between the two nations. 

While agreements such as the 2009 Exchange of Letters have addressed some issues, others remain unresolved. 

Residents near border areas have raised concerns about illegal crossings affecting local businesses, prompting calls for increased security patrols and enhanced surveillance infrastructure. 

Brunei’s Sports Industry Push

Brunei is investing in sports infrastructure ahead of hosting the ASEAN School Games (ASG) in November 2025.

Upgrades to Stadium Negara Hassanal Bolkiah and plans for annual international marathon and cycling events on the Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Bridge are in motion. 

A youth representative from Brunei’s national sports body noted, “Investing in sports is not just about infrastructure - it’s about creating long-term opportunities for our athletes and boosting tourism.”

What’s Next? A Nation at a Crossroads

Brunei faces critical choices: reform fiscal policies or risk deeper deficits, enforce governance reforms or lose public trust, accelerate digital security measures or fall prey to cyber threats. 

With economic pressures mounting and regional complexities at play, how will policymakers navigate these challenges? The answer will shape Brunei’s future for years to come. (MHO/03/2025)