From Palace to People: Answering His Majesty’s Call

 "Brunei stands at a pivotal crossroads as Vision 2035 enters its crucial final decade. Can the nation collectively rise to His Majesty's call for dynamic adaptation and unified action to navigate uncertain global economic waters, or will challenges in execution delay the promise of prosperity?"

By Malai Hassan Othman

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN — In a candid and urgent message, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaullah delivered a striking reminder that Brunei’s ambitious national development agenda, known as Wawasan Brunei 2035, must swiftly adapt or risk faltering amidst global economic turbulence and increasing international economic tensions.

Speaking at the inaugural session of Majlis Tertinggi Wawasan Brunei 2035 at Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan stressed the importance of "dynamic, flexible, and constantly evolving" strategies. 

He described Brunei’s development blueprint as a "living document" that must respond effectively to emerging global challenges to protect the nation’s economic resilience and social prosperity. 

"In a rapidly changing world marked by uncertainty, preparedness to adapt and respond quickly to emerging issues is essential," he cautioned. 

His message comes at a critical juncture as Brunei navigates a global landscape characterised by unpredictability and economic friction between major powers.

The Sultan also underscored the importance of comprehensive, whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approaches, especially as the country enters the crucial final decade before the 2035 target year. 

"Coordination among agencies and sectors must be strengthened," he declared, "to ensure all parties work together toward common goals." 

The meeting reviewed the Wawasan Brunei 2035 Framework, with a focus on maintaining its relevance and responsiveness to current and future socio-economic challenges. 

He highlighted the necessity for clearly defined National Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and the effective use of the Wawasan Brunei 2035 Index. 

This integrated approach aims to evaluate policy effectiveness, identify performance gaps, and support informed decision-making and strategic direction.

Analysts noted the significant relevance of the Sultan’s message against the backdrop of Brunei’s struggles to diversify its oil-dependent economy and the slow progress on key performance indicators essential to Wawasan 2035. 

Critics contend that despite good intentions, the government's execution has fallen short of its ambitious policy declarations. 

"Brunei faces genuine threats, particularly from external economic shocks like the ongoing US-China trade war," said a local economist who spoke anonymously due to sensitivities. 

"Our over-reliance on oil revenues and slow economic diversification leaves us particularly vulnerable. The Sultan’s call for urgent, adaptive action is both timely and necessary."

In his speech, the Sultan emphasised that the government alone cannot bear the responsibility of achieving ambitious national goals. 

He highlighted the significance of strong public-private partnerships and urged the non-governmental sector to increase its engagement and collaboration. 

His Majesty's appeal marks a pivotal shift towards inclusive governance, recognising that real progress necessitates a collective effort. 

However, some citizens have pointed out a critical shortcoming in the current approach: insufficient direct involvement and communication with the general public. 

Awang Razali, a concerned citizen, stressed the need for "frequent meetings with the people to clearly and explicitly outline their roles in achieving the vision and mission." 

He added, "It is not enough for plans and programs to appear impressive on paper; practical implementation is what truly matters. Government initiatives are ultimately for the people, who are the real stakeholders. Without regular engagement and feedback, we risk creating uncertainty and misunderstanding."

Public sentiment reflects cautious optimism alongside underlying frustration, driven by concerns over employment stability, rising living costs, and perceived bureaucratic inertia. 

A recent survey indicated that while Bruneians remain hopeful about Vision 2035, many feel that tangible benefits have yet to fully materialise. 

"We’ve been hearing about Vision 2035 for years," noted Muhammad, a young entrepreneur from Bandar Seri Begawan. 

"But what we really want to see now are real jobs, better incomes, and visible progress. The Sultan’s recognition of the need for adaptability gives me some hope, but seeing actual results is what matters most."

Experts warn that Brunei's reliance on imports, especially commodities and technologies from the U.S. and China, makes the ongoing trade tensions particularly concerning. 

With both of these economic giants imposing tariffs and engaging in reciprocal sanctions, the Sultan’s call to continually reassess and adjust Brunei’s development plans is particularly resonant. 

"We must acknowledge that our economy is not insulated," said a trade analyst well-versed in ASEAN economic affairs. 

"The Sultan's emphasis on flexibility and responsiveness is not only prudent—it’s essential. Brunei must expedite efforts to diversify, especially in sectors such as digital technology, logistics, agriculture, and tourism."

The recent meeting underscored the progress of the blueprints, which serve as essential frameworks for implementing development policies and programs. 

Extensive communication efforts are actively being pursued to raise awareness and promote inclusive engagement among all stakeholders, including the general public and the private sector. 

Bridging the gap between policy vision and real-world execution remains a significant challenge. 

Observers emphasise that, beyond the Sultan’s wise counsel, systemic reforms within government processes and accountability structures are necessary for achieving genuine progress. 

"There is still significant bureaucracy," noted a local businessman involved in public-private initiatives. 

"His Majesty’s call must now translate into concrete reforms in governance, transparency, and execution. Otherwise, the Vision remains just that—a vision."

As global economic dynamics continue to shift unpredictably, His Majesty’s latest titah serves as a wake-up call for collective responsibility, rapid adaptation, and genuine reform. 

Brunei’s Vision 2035 now stands at a pivotal crossroads, where the choices made today will profoundly shape the nation's future resilience and prosperity. 

"Brunei must evolve rapidly and collaboratively," concluded the economist. "Otherwise, we risk being left behind." (MHO/05/2025)
 

The Silent Frontliners: Reclaiming Trust Through True Public Service Communication

(This article is a follow-up to my earlier piece: Of Cowards, Critics, and the Call to Contribute, where I explored the culture of criticism, silence, and the need for constructive national engagement.)

In a nation where progress is measured not just by development projects but by public trust and national unity, a group of unsung heroes continues to labour quietly: Brunei’s civil servants. 

Often vilified in public discourse and social media chatter, many government officers work far beyond the call of duty, quietly serving the nation without expecting recognition. 

Yet their efforts are rarely celebrated; instead, they are drowned under the weight of criticism, some valid, but many fueled by hearsay and shallow understanding. 

"Sometimes, it feels like no matter how hard we work, it's never enough," shared a young officer recently. "We don't just work to earn a living; we work to serve." 

Her words are not an isolated sentiment but an echo of the silent frustration felt across the public sector.

Public and private conversations today often carry a tone of frustration.

As one commentator pointed out, during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, many became instant "experts," blaming and criticising rather than offering solutions. 

The real question remains: What are we going to do about it? 

Those who truly care about Brunei's future must move beyond criticism to provide suggestions, propose a way forward, and constructively engage with authorities.

Brunei's working culture in the public service is shaped by deep respect for hierarchy, risk aversion, and an overwhelming emphasis on protocol over engagement. 

Officers tread cautiously when dealing with the media or the public, often avoiding open communication for fear of overstepping. 

The prevailing mentality still echoes the blunt statement I once received as a young reporter: "We don't work for the media." 

This cautious working culture, combined with Brunei's top-down political system, fosters an environment where proactive, transparent communication is not just rare — it is discouraged. 

Many officers, no matter how dedicated, are trapped within structures that silence rather than empower them to communicate with the people they serve.

Meanwhile, the media landscape itself struggles. 

Once vibrant, it is now reduced to a handful of surviving private outlets such as Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata, alongside state-run platforms like Pelita Brunei and RTB. 

Journalism has largely been reduced to press release reporting, with little room for investigative depth or independent scrutiny. 

While the internet has expanded access to information, the tight narrative controls and cautious reporting norms have left a critical void. 

In many cases, what remains can be described as patronising journalism — content that highlights only the positives, praises authority without question, and avoids meaningful scrutiny. 

While intended to preserve stability, this approach risks alienating an increasingly discerning public who yearn for authenticity, critical thought, and genuine engagement.

In the absence of bold, credible, and timely communication, rumours, frustration, and mistrust thrive. 

Recurring patterns vividly demonstrate this communication gap: during the rollout of various public service initiatives over the years, public confusion has often escalated due to delayed, inconsistent information from official sources.

In many instances, social media filled the void with half-truths and frustrations, damaging public confidence in reforms that might otherwise have been well received. 

This was particularly evident when public debates flared up around proposed restrictions on online forums, exposing a widespread public fear that tighter media controls would further suffocate civic space.

Effective Public Relations (PR) is not a luxury. It is the lifeline of good governance. 

It builds trust, ensures transparency, and connects government institutions to the people they serve. 

Press releases, social media engagement, public outreach, media interviews, and proactive dialogues are not optional extras. 

They are critical components of modern public service. 

But beyond technical fixes, true public relations must be grounded in deeper values — the timeless Islamic principles that characterised the leadership of Prophet Muhammad SAW: Sidiq (truthfulness), Amanah (trustworthiness), Tabligh (clear communication and cascading of information), and Fatanah (wisdom). 

These principles formed the ethical foundation of his leadership, ensuring trust, clarity, and wisdom in governance and communication. 

As Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) wisely said: 

"The most beloved of leaders to the people is the one who strives for their welfare, and the most hated is the one who seeks to burden them." 

Leadership, therefore, is a trust that demands sincerity, clarity, and compassion. 

• Sidiq demands that the government speak the truth consistently, clearly, and courageously. -

• Amanah requires public servants to honour the trust placed in them by serving sincerely and responsibly. -

• Tabligh goes beyond mere announcements; it insists on effective cascading of information from leadership to every level, ensuring that policies are clearly understood and implemented with unity and clarity. -

• Fatanah calls for wisdom in balancing firmness with compassion, especially when facing public criticism.

If Brunei’s public sector truly wishes to rebuild public trust, then these values must not merely be quoted in speeches. 

They must be woven into daily practice, into every public statement, every engagement with the media, and every internal briefing. 

Without effective cascading communication, policies risk being misunderstood or poorly implemented, leading to frustration both within the service and among the public. 

Clarity must flow from the top down through every directorate, department, and frontline service counter.

A positive example of effective cascading communication was seen during the nationwide rollout of the BruHealth application during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Clear guidelines, proactive public briefings, and consistent messaging across ministries helped achieve rapid public compliance and understanding, demonstrating that when communication flows properly, national initiatives can succeed smoothly.

Despite the success of initiatives like BruHealth, communication gaps persist across other areas of public service.

Increasingly, even the youth are expressing frustration, seeking platforms for safe civic engagement and common dialogue. 

As one young respondent asked: "Can we share a common platform?" 

Their question reflects a growing yearning for constructive participation in national development, not just passive observation or criticism. 

This growing desire for civic participation, however, is not without risks. 

As another well-wisher warned, bold voices calling for reform may unsettle certain entrenched interests. 

The corridors of power are often more threatened by constructive criticism than by silence. 

Nevertheless, the will to speak up for a better Brunei must remain steadfast. We are not alone. 

Hope for a better future is a shared aspiration across borders and generations.

Moreover, suppressing traditional media and curbing online platforms not only stifles public discourse but threatens the very foundation of good governance. 

Without a free and responsible press, there can be no meaningful checks and balances. 

Governments operate without significant scrutiny; inefficiencies and mismanagement remain hidden, and public trust continues to erode. 

Transparency is not merely a virtue; it is an economic and social necessity, critical for attracting investments, encouraging innovation, and fostering a well-informed citizenry. 

In a time when the public demands faster answers, more transparency, and greater accountability, the solution does not lie in defensiveness or silence. 

It lies in embracing a communication culture rooted in the timeless Islamic principles of Sidiq (truthfulness), Amanah (trustworthiness), Tabligh (clear communication and effective cascading of information), and Fatanah (wisdom).

As a young officer reflected, "We inherited a legacy of problems. Fixing it will take a united nation." 

Unity will not come from slogans; it must be built through trust. And trust, ultimately, is built by speaking truthfully, wisely, and by being truly present for the people. 

If the silent frontliners are given a voice — and the trust to speak sincerely, wisely, and courageously — Brunei can nurture a stronger, more united nation ready to face its future with confidence. 

Brunei’s public service has a heart. Now, it must also find its voice. (MHO/04/2025)

#CallToContribute #NationBuilding #SilentFrontliners

Beyond Sightings: Brunei’s Real Conversation on Crocodiles and Coexistence

 A ground-up approach to managing human-wildlife conflict with empathy and strategy

 

What started over ambuyat by the Brunei River has now reached government halls.

From the heart of Kampong Ayer to the district halls of Tutong, villagers are speaking up—not against crocodiles, but for timely alerts, safe riverbanks, and policy that listens.

This isn’t just a wildlife issue. It’s a governance, communication, and coexistence challenge.

📰 Read the follow-up to Voices from the Riverbanks – now updated with field insights, agency responses, and what’s next for Brunei’s crocodile management strategy.

👇 Full story here at #KopiTalkwithMHO
#Brunei #WildlifeConservation #CommunityVoices #PublicSafety #KampongAyer #EnvironmentalPolicy #HumanWildlifeConflict

Brunei Expands Crocodile Safety Program Amid Rising Sightings and Community Concern

A Follow-Up to “Voices from the Riverbanks” | By Malai Hassan Othman

TUTONG – It began with ambuyat and crocodile talk at a long table in PABO Restaurant, perched above the legendary Brunei River and the once-bustling Kampong Ayer, now haunted by red-eyed predators.

The lunch marked the start of a scheduled five-day crocodile conservation and safety program, jointly organised by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and the U.S. Embassy in Brunei.

From left: Haji Dinnie Haji Mahdi, the Head of Wildlife Unit of the Forestry Department, Dr Steven G. Platt of the Wildlife Conservative Society

Led by Dr. Steven G. Platt of the Wildlife Conservation Society, the initiative aims to equip village leaders with tools to address crocodile encounters and improve ecological understanding.

This morning, the dialogue moved inland to Tutong, where the Crocodile Public Safety Briefing took place at the District Officer’s Residence, bringing together community members and officials.

The event is part of the U.S. Department of State’s Speaker Program, which facilitates global knowledge sharing in conservation, education, and civic engagement.

At the lunch in Bandar, the river wasn’t just scenery; it was a metaphor. The crocs were shy before. Now they come to the houses,' one kampong elder said over ambuyat.

That reality set the tone for Tutong. Villagers shared direct, practical experiences. They spoke of lost pets, blocked jetties, and schoolchildren rerouting to avoid crocodile haunts.

Crocodile complaints spiked from 68 in 2022 to 111 in 2023, mostly in Brunei-Muara. Experts link the rise to disturbed habitats, quiet rivers, garbage dumping, and reduced river traffic.

Dr. Platt addressed popular myths: crocodiles can live as long as humans, they don’t weaken with age, and they only stop when they lose all their teeth and can’t feed.

He emphasised that understanding crocodile behaviour is the first defence: avoiding known nesting zones, minimising splash and noise near riverbanks, and keeping waste far from waterlines.

When asked how to react to an attack, Platt advised: hit the croc with poles, target the eyes. 'Multiple people intervening often causes the crocodile to release its victim,' he noted.

The monsoon season worsens things. Waves push crocodiles inland, forcing them into calmer tributaries, right where humans gather, wash, fish, and occasionally let down their guard.

Officials highlighted the Wildlife Division’s Program Tangkap Buaya Bersama (PTBB), launched in 2023. It empowers Kampong Ayer residents to report sightings and monitor waters near their homes.

Don't be fooled by the smiles—these guys mean serious business... and soft toys.

From policy to plushies, the team behind Brunei’s crocodile safety program proves that heart, humour, and harmony go a long way in protecting communities and ecosystems.

However, community trust remains limited. 'Why do we hear about the crocodile only after someone dies?' one resident asked. 'Why not before?'

In 2024, nearly 200 crocodiles were captured and relocated. Residents say the issue lies not just with the crocodiles, but also with delayed planning, prevention, and outreach.

One village head said, 'We’re not asking for miracles, just to feel like someone cares before we end up on the news.' His words drew nods across the hall.

Among the solutions proposed: a national crocodile sighting database, school awareness programs, warning signs in danger zones, and joint kampong patrols with early-alert systems via mobile networks.

This week’s event follows up on the concerns aired in the earlier Kopi Talk with MHO column, Voices from the Riverbanks, which amplified public frustration from the ground up.

That article, framed by the haunting view of crocodiles gliding under PABO’s riverside deck, didn’t start the conversation, but it brought urgency and clarity to long-held grievances.

The Ministry now promotes a Whole-of-Nation approach, combining conservation science, grassroots cooperation, and policy alignment to protect lives and balance the ecology.

This Friday, the program will conclude with a roundtable at Universiti Brunei Darussalam, inviting young Bruneians, researchers, and officials to shape the next steps together.

As one kampong elder remarked at the end of the briefing, 'We’re not against crocodiles. We’re against being forgotten.'(MHO/04/2025)

“From the Kampong to the Policy Table - One Voice for Safer Rivers. Empowered by knowledge, connected by commitment. This is what the Whole-of-Nation Approach and collaboration look like.