Published by:

Ministry of Finance and Economy

Commonwealth Drive, Bandar Seri Begawan BB3910
Brunei Darussalam
www.mofe.gov.bn

In collaboration with:
Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam
Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam
Brunei Intellectual Property Office
Employees Trust Fund
Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports
Ministry of Defence
Ministry of Development
Ministry of Education
Ministry of Energy
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Health
Ministry of Home Affairs
Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism
Ministry of Religious Affairs
Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications
Prime Minister’s Office
Wawasan Brunei 2035 Standing Secretariat

Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam

Biodiversity and Natural History Society
Brunei Council on Social Welfare
Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council
Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind
Brunei Darussalam Youth Council
Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Brunei Darussalam
Council for the Welfare of Persons with Different Abilities
Down Syndrome Association
Green Brunei
Hand4Hand Brunei
La Vida Sdn Bhd
MyActionsforSDGs
National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam
Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam
Society for Community Outreach and Training
Society for the Management of Autism Related Issues in Training, Education and Resources
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation
Universiti Brunei Darussalam
WeCare | KamiPrihatin

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First published June 2020.

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organisations and private individuals.
Contents
Foreword..................................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 2
Sustainable Development Goal 1 ................................................................................................ 4
Sustainable Development Goal 2 .............................................................................................. 16
Sustainable Development Goal 3 .............................................................................................. 20
Sustainable Development Goal 4 .............................................................................................. 28
Sustainable Development Goal 5 .............................................................................................. 37
Sustainable Development Goal 6 .............................................................................................. 43
Sustainable Development Goal 7 .............................................................................................. 46
Sustainable Development Goal 8 .............................................................................................. 49
Sustainable Development Goal 9 .............................................................................................. 59
Sustainable Development Goal 10 ............................................................................................ 64
Sustainable Development Goal 11 ............................................................................................ 75
Sustainable Development Goal 12 ............................................................................................ 80
Sustainable Development Goal 13 ............................................................................................ 83
Sustainable Development Goal 14 ............................................................................................ 87
Sustainable Development Goal 15 ............................................................................................ 91
Sustainable Development Goal 16 ............................................................................................ 97
Sustainable Development Goal 17 .......................................................................................... 104
Conclusion .............................................................................................................................. 109
Foreword GAMBAR WAJAH
KEBAWAH DULI
YANG MAHA MULIA
The year 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment PADUKA SERI
of the United Nations and the 5th year since the adoption of the BAGINDA
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the SULTAN DAN YANG
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). DI-PERTUAN
NEGARA BRUNEI
On such an important milestone, Brunei Darussalam is DARUSSALAM
therefore pleased to share its first Voluntary National Review
(VNR) Report at the 2020 High-Level Political Forum for
Sustainable Development.

Brunei Darussalam’s SDGs journey is guided by its national vision, Wawasan Brunei 2035, where
the country aspires to be widely recognised for its educated, highly skilled and accomplished
people, with a high quality of life and a dynamic and sustainable economy by 2035. Whilst
preserving its unique social, cultural and traditional values, the Government of Brunei Darussalam
aims to ensure that the country and its people will continue to thrive and prosper in the fast
evolving modern world.

The country has made progress in accomplishing the SDGs by building upon its early
achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Through the VNR process which
brought together the whole nation, Brunei Darussalam was able to take stock of its SDGs
accomplishments, identify opportunities and challenges as well as gain invaluable lessons and
insights.

Since the beginning of this year, the world has been confronted with the COVID-19 pandemic,
that has resulted in loss of lives, impacted the livelihood of the people, and affected socio-
economic development. This unprecedented situation highlighted that our lives are increasingly
interconnected and dependent, with challenges cutting across borders requiring global solidarity
and concerted efforts. Therefore, and with a decade left to fulfil the 2030 Agenda, it is critical that
we further strengthen regional and international cooperation and partnership, including capacity
building and assistance, towards attainment of the SDGs.

Brunei Darussalam remains commited to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
and the SDGs, in line with its Wawasan Brunei 2035, to ensure that no one is left behind.

SULTAN HAJI HASSANAL BOLKIAH

OF BRUNEI

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 1
Introduction
In 2008, Brunei Darussalam began its new Brunei Darussalam has no record of extreme
journey towards Wawasan Brunei 2035, its poverty and is progressively implementing
national vision, in which by 2035, the country and improving on most of the SDGs. The
aspires to be recognised for its educated, Government has implemented national
highly skilled and accomplished people, with policies and plans of action that ensure
a high quality of life and a dynamic, inclusive economic participation, through the
sustainable economy. This Vision guides empowerment of women, youth, low income
Brunei Darussalam’s development strategies earners and the differently abled.
and policies, which have also incorporated
sustainable development perspectives. In Brunei Darussalam, the universal access
to high standard education at all levels and
During the 70th Session of the United Nations nine years of formal compulsory education
(UN) General Assembly in 2015, Brunei has resulted in high literacy rate of 97.2%.
Darussalam joined other Member States in
endorsing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Health indicators show that Brunei
Development and the Sustainable Darussalam’s efforts have matched those of
Development Goals (SDGs). As an early the developed nations. Significant measures
achiever of the Millennium Development have been taken to ensure that infectious
Goals (MDGs), Brunei Darussalam diseases are well-controlled, as recently
thereafter continues to leverage upon this exemplified by the country’s successful
success to achieve the SDGs, notably the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Goals that are directly aligned with Wawasan
Brunei 2035. This report comprehensively The protection of environment and natural
sets out the country’s achievements and resources has always been a priority to
ongoing collective efforts to implement the Brunei Darussalam whereby 72% of total
SDGs. It also acknowledges the challenges land area is still covered with forests, of
that lie ahead which the Government will which 41% is gazetted as forest reserves.
strive to address through lessons learnt and,
where relevant, based on international best Brunei Darussalam has actively participated
practices. in regional and international meetings as well
as workshops aimed at enhancing
The citizens of Brunei Darussalam continue understanding and promoting closer
to enjoy high quality of life in a safe, secure cooperation, capacity building, and sharing
and prosperous environment as a result of of best practices towards achieving the 2030
the provision of essential services and high Agenda.
standard infrastructure including in health,
education, clean water and sanitation, The country also continues to be a part of the
housing, legal institutions, tele- global partnership for development and
communications as well as decent supports collaboration for mutual benefit for
employment. all.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 2
NATIONAL MECHANISMS
To effectively implement the 2030 Agenda, A VNR Workshop was organised on 8-9
Brunei Darussalam has taken an inclusive January 2020 in Bandar Seri Begawan,
and whole of nation approach, collaborating Brunei Darussalam, to provide relevant
and engaging with relevant stakeholders, stakeholders an in-depth understanding of
namely the private sector, non-governmental the VNR process and to give them
organisations (NGOs), researchers and opportunity for meaningful participation in the
academia. preparation of the VNR.

A multi-stakeholder ‘Special Committee for Brunei Darussalam has also attended

the Implementation of the SDGs’ comprising several workshops organised by the UN and
of senior officers from relevant ministries and ASEAN, which allowed for learning other
agencies was established in 20161 to countries’ experiences and best practices in
facilitate the inclusion of SDGs indicators in undertaking their VNRs.
Brunei Darussalam’s development plans as
well as to ensure and monitor the These include, among others, the ASEAN
implementation of the SDGs in line with Forum on SDGs with National Development
national priorities. Planning Agencies - Accelerating SDGs
Implementation in ASEAN jointly organised
In gearing up for the country’s Voluntary by the ASEAN Secretariat and the Embassy
National Review (VNR) at the 2020 High- of Switzerland in the Republic of Indonesia
Level Political Forum on Sustainable (July 2019); the 3rd South-East Asia Forum
Development, Brunei Darussalam has on Implementation of the SDGs organised by
established another Special Committee, the UN Economic and Social Commission for
which is co-chaired at the ministerial level by Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) (October
the Ministry of Finance and Economy 2019); regional and international webinar
(MOFE) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs workshops organised by the UN Department
(MFA). This Special Committee spearheads of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA)
the preparation of Brunei Darussalam’s VNR and UN ESCAP (March 2020); and the 7th
report and efforts in stock taking and Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable
reviewing the country’s progress towards the Development (May 2020).
achievement of the SDGs2.

To promote inclusivity and generate

beneficial dialogue, direct consultations were
also conducted with relevant and diverse
range of stakeholders including NGOs and
academia.

1
Members are the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO); Ministry of Finance and Economy; Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Education
(MOE); Ministry of Health (MOH); Ministry of Development (MOD); Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT); Ministry of
Home Affairs (MOHA); Ministry of Culture; Youth and Sports (MCYS); Ministry of Religious Affairs (MORA); Ministry of Transport and
Infocommunications (MTIC); Ministry of Energy (ME); Employees Trust Fund; Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam; Authority for Info-
communications Technology Industry; and Wawasan Brunei 2035 Standing Secretariat.
2
Members are the PMO; MOFE; MFA; MOE; MOH; MOD; MPRT; MOHA; MCYS; MORA; MTIC; and ME.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 3
Sustainable Development Goal 1
End poverty in all its forms everywhere
Brunei Darussalam places great importance provision of employment and other economic
in caring for the well-being and welfare of its opportunities that will also serve to meet
people, and continues to exert efforts Wawasan Brunei 2035.
towards eradicating poverty in all its forms.
This is in line with the vision of the
Towards this, the National Council on Social Integerated Plan of Action on Poverty
Issues (MKIS), established in 2008, is Eradication produced by the Special
mandated to address challenges arising from Committee on Poverty Issues3, which is to
these efforts. This Council is chaired by the reduce dependency on welfare assistance
Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports towards a self-reliant and resilient
(MCYS) and its members include the Prime community. Such vision is achieved by
Minister’s Office (PMO); Ministry of Finance empowering greater self-reliance, and
and Economy (MOFE); Ministry of Home breaking the cycle of poverty through
Affairs (MOHA); Ministry of Religious Affairs capacity building for employment and
(MORA); Ministry of Education (MOE) and entrepreneurship.
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation
(YSHHB), a non-governmental organisation This Plan of Action is currently being
(NGO). reviewed, in order to increase its
effectiveness and to be more result-oriented,
The MKIS focuses on 12 social issues, which and is due to be implemented by July 2020.
are poverty; social security; unemployment; The revised Plan of Action for this Special
housing for the poor; mentality; immoral Committee will focus on ten strategies, which
behaviour; crime prevention; family are skills training; education; employment;
institution; persons with different abilities entrepreneurship; finance; infrastructure
(PWDs); elderly; women; and children. (housing); infrastructure (transportation);
Under the MKIS, there are five Special mindset; childcare; as well as policy,
Committes which review and monitor the legislation and guidelines.
implementation of their respective Plans of
Action and policies or directives, as set by A whole of nation approach, spearheaded
the Council. through inter-ministerial engagement, is
crucial in implementing this Plan of Action.
AN INTEGRATED AND WHOLE OF The role of other stakeholders is also
NATION APPROACH TOWARDS necessary, through the inclusion of various
POVERTY ERADICATION corporate social responsibility (CSR)-related
Progressive economic growth is important to programmes and volunteerism activities that
ensure that poverty is addressed through the target poverty eradication.

3
Members are Councils of State, PMO; PMO; MOFE; Ministry of Health; MOE; MORA; MOHA; Ministry of Primary Resources and
Tourism; Ministry of Development (MOD); MCYS, Department of Economic Planning and Statistics, MOFE; Manpower Planning and
Employment Council, PMO; Housing Development Department, MOD; Land Transport Department, Ministry of Transport and
Infocommunications (MTIC); Jobcentre Brunei, Ministry of Energy; Brunei Darussalam Islamic Religious Council, MORA; YSHHB;
Darussalam Enterprise (DARe); Council on Social Welfare; and Society for Community Outreach & Training Organisation.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 4
Towards further improving the wellbeing and Additionally, muslims also pay zakat fitrah
the welfare of the people, the Government is during the holy month of Ramadhan, to be
currently in the process of implementing a distributed to poor muslims.
comprehensive and centralised national
welfare system, Sistem Kebajikan Negara Zakat is collected by the Zakat Collection and
(SKN). The system, expected to be Distribution Section under the Brunei
operational by July 2020, will provide direct Darussalam Islamic Religious Council
access to those in need, making sure no one (MUIB) and distributed as assistance to
is left behind. At the same time, this will those who are not able to fend for
ensure an efficient, timely and effective themselves and their families. Zakat is also
welfare system, allowing a true picture to be used to fund enrichment programmes aimed
depicted in the provision of benefits to at empowering zakat recipients. In 2018,
recipients and their dependents. zakat amounting to B$5.2 million was
distributed to 3,669 recipients. This includes
SUPPORTING MECHANISMS through the purchasing of medical supplies
Brunei Darussalam has always emphasised and equipment that are needed by those
the importance of providing a sustainable incapable of work due to health problems.
social security system for its people,
especially those who are least able to cater MUIB Zakat distribution:
for themselves. This includes initiatives that
provide financial assistance and platforms to Monthly Financial
target groups to eradicate poverty: Distribution – 678 recipients,
B$1.42 million distributed
Monthly Welfare Assistance (BKB) (2018).
BKB, provided through the MCYS, is
designed to act as a supplement to protect Basic Needs Financial Distribution –
these target groups from poverty, and ease 2,409 recipients, B$1.9 million distributed
their hardship until they receive a sufficient (2018).
source of income and become economically
independent. Housing Rental Payment Distribution -
193 recipients, B$907,497.60 distributed
In December 2019, the total number of BKB (2018).
recipients were 5,812 heads of households.
The average recipients per month of BKB in School Financial Distribution – 1,373
2019 were about 5,700. From April 2019 to recipients, B$988,560.00 distributed
March 2020, B$13,049,685.00 of BKB funds (2018).
were disbursed. From July 2020, the
eligibility criteria for BKB will be based on the
Minimum Cost of Basic Needs. Old Age Pensions
Since 1955, in recognition and appreciation
Zakat of the contribution made by the older
In Brunei Darussalam, giving zakat is a generation and as part of Brunei
religious obligation, where muslims whose Darussalam’s social safety nets, Old Age
wealth sits above the minimum threshold are Pensions are distributed to citizens and
obligated to pay 2.5% on their collective residents upon reaching 60 years old, as
assets. provided for under the Old Age and Disability
Pensions Act. The pensions have

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 5
traditionally been disbursed by the Heads of well as shelters and grants to start a
Villages. However, an alternative option of business to those in need. For the Financial
receiving pension payments through banks Year (FY) 2019/2020, B$25,330,000.00 was
was made available since March 2020. allocated for these provisions.

In May 2020, the total number of Old Age Additionally, through the micro grants under
Pensions recipients were 38,290. From April the Development Assistance Programme as
2019 to March 2020, the total amount of Old well as the Youth Entrepreneurship
Age Pension payments was Enhancement Programme, a total of
B$110,984,750.00. B$47,739.00 has been given to 32
entrepreneurs to run and/or expand their
business. In view of the potential of this
initiative, the MCYS has allocated
B$30,000.00 annually under the
Development Assistance Programme to
provide assistance to at least 10
entrepreneurs since FY 2019/2020.

EMPOWERING THE POOR

The Government has advocated the
empowerment of the poor by enhancing their
productivity through improving employability
Image: Photo dated 23 April 1955 showing 80- and encouraging entrepreneurship. The said
year-old Che Fatimah binte Alin receiving her first objective has been achieved through the
Old Age Pension payment. implementation of capacity building
programmes, as well as provision of
Persons with Disabilities necessary training and skill sets. This is also
In addition, disability pensions and in line with the Manpower Planning and
allowances have been provided to Persons Employment Council (MPEC)’s strategies for
with Disabilities since 1955, for those aged the vulnerable groups and the Plan of Action
15 years and above, as provided for under on Poverty Eradication under the MKIS.
the Old Age and Disability Pensions Act. This
was reviewed to include disability allowances More focus has been given to poverty
for those below 15 years, as of 1 January eradication initiatives through empowerment
2018. tools that aim to break the poverty cycle and
to ensure sustainable income. Target groups
In May 2020, the total number of recipients identified as able-bodied and able-to-work
for disabilities pensions and allowances was among the poor have continued to undergo
3,630. From April 2019 to March 2020, the trainings for entrepreneurship, self-
total amount of disabilities pensions and development and positive mindset.
allowances disbursed was B$10,140,434.00.
Since April 2016, the MCYS has developed
Other Safety Nets the following five empowerment
Other forms of assistance are also available programmes:
to alleviate economic hardship. In addition to
the monthly BKB, the MCYS also provides
food rations and daily basic necessities as

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 6
i) Employment Plan Programme iii) Micro-grant for Empowerment
Under this Programme, the MCYS, in The micro-grant provides vulnerable groups
partnership with various companies, assists with small financial assistance to venture into
BKB recipients to increase their entrepreneurship or self-employment. Target
employability and find employment. This groups include PWDs, single mothers and
includes the provision of digital literacy low-income community groups as well as
courses conducted by Jobcentre Brunei, as welfare recipients who have undergone
well as CV writing courses in collaboration entrepreneurship development training at the
with a private company, AVERTU. YDC and Darussalam Enterprise (DARe).

In 2019, a total of 260 welfare recipients / A B$30,000 annual budget has been
beneficiaries has been employed under the allocated for this micro-grant programme
Employment Plan Programme, whereby the since FY 2019/2020.
total number of recipients employed under
this Programme has increased yearly. The iv) Business from Home (BDR)
target is to ensure 300 recipients and The BDR programme is specifically targeted
dependents are employed annually. Under to help provide housewives with
the Plan of Action on Poverty Eradication, entrepreneurship opportunities. This
the strategy target is to ensure 30% of all programme includes product marketing, as
recipients and dependents are employed well as entrepreneurial guidance through
within five years. DARe’s ‘Institute Business Academy’ and
‘Micro Business Bootcamp’. To date, 41 out
ii) Community Empowerment Programme of 68 participants have successfully
(PPK) continued operating their home-based
This Programme aims to empower BKB businesses under the BDR initiative.
recipients by providing skills training that is
tailored to their skills and interests. It is Parallel to this, in October 2018, Bank Islam
intended to help recipients find jobs or run a Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) has also
business, so that they can be financially introduced the ‘Special Underprivileged
independent without relying on government Mothers Empowerment Entrepreneurship
assistance. The Programme is run in Development’ programme (BIBD SEED) in
collaboration with the Youth Development collaboration with MORA and MCYS. This
Centre (YDC) where participants undertake programme aspires to enhance the livelihood
short courses such as those related to of underprivileged mothers in Brunei
Cooking and Catering; Cake and Pastry; Darussalam by empowering and facilitating
Beauty Therapy; Autocad; Basic their development as competitive, resilient,
Refrigeration; Air-conditioning and Basic and successful entrepreneurs.
Plumbing.
The 15-month programme consists of four
To date, from April 2019 to March 2020, phases that provide continuous monitoring
more than 300 participants underwent and coaching under close observation and
various skills training, in which 18 have mentoring from representatives in related
acquired jobs and 20 have started industries and local training facilitators. In
businesses. In addition, the MCYS is also 2018 - 2019, 93 underprivileged mothers
working with the Capacity Building Centre to participated, with nine and ten participants in
provide skills training to recipients. the 1st and 2nd cycle of BIBD SEED

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 7
respectively now owning their own food and Through this programme, participants are
beverage brands. guided through three phases, beginning with
the three-month National Service
v) The Visionary Youth Innovation Programme, followed by basic skills training
Programme (PIBB) and education at Politeknik Brunei, and
The PIBB was introduced to educate as well finally, a work attachment to provide
as promote resilience and a positive mindset exposure and increase marketability.
among those aged between 16 to 21 years
old, as an initiative to eradicate poverty Out of 33 participants since 2016, 14 are
through early empowerment of young family currently employed, three have started their
members of target groups, and guide them to own businesses while one has continued to
thinking of different means of enhancing their further studies.
family's economic sustainability.

Promote and Inculcate Entrepreneurship and Employment - MCYS

Plan of Action on Poverty Eradication Pelan Pekerjaan

(2020-2024) Targets Programme implemented since 2018 to
Provide meaningful employment for 30% assist welfare recipients and dependents
of unemployed welfare recipients who who are able to work but unemployed to
are able-bodied and able-to-work by find employment.
building their capacities and access to
employment opportunities. As of May 2020, 236 people have
successfully secured employment under
5% of able-bodied and able-to-work this programme.
welfare recipients are able to generate
sustainable income from Skills Development Programmes
entrepreneurship activities. Programme for skill training for PWDs,
focusing on living and social skills, basic
TEKAD Pekerjaan vocational and work skills at Pusat
Programme targeted at welfare Bahagia and the YDC.
recipients who are able-bodied and able-
to-work within the age group of 18 - 59 As of December 2019, 433 PWDs were
years old, and have been receiving registered at Pusat Bahagia with 20
monthly welfare benefits for more than registered at YDC.
four cycles. Started in July 2019,
participants will receive additional
financial assistance if remain employed
for a period of six months.

As of May 2020, a total of 34 participants

have remained working in private sector.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 8
 Promote and Inculcate Entrepreneurship and Employment – MUIB
Asnaf Zakat Empowerment Programme
(PROPAZ).
Provides knowledge and skills to assist
underprivileged job seekers, with provision of
allowances during courses, before they are
employed by participating partners in the public
and private sector. Also provides funds for capital
injection and purchase of machinery and
equipment.
Image: One of the PROPAZ
recipients receiving assistance.
 PROPAZ and the Baitulmal Skills Institute
Since 2017, recipients are sent to undergo skills training programmes at the
Baitulmal Skills Institute in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Courses include food services
and catering, building construction and computer design.

 PROPAZ Az-Ziraah: Extension of the PROPAZ to farming.

In 2018, 6 trainees under mentorship were given plots of land, training and
experience in planting, as well as marketing knowledge.

ENHANCING WELFARE (HOUSING)

Housing continues to be one of the key Housing Focus Group
priorities of the Government aimed at A national committee called the Housing
improving the welfare of its citizens as well Focus Group (HFG), led by the MOD, was
as contributing towards socio-economic also established to provide an alignment of
stability in the country. The Government, various housing assistance programmes for
through the MOD, strives to provide quality the underprivileged. Members of the HFG
and affordable housing especially to low involve representatives from relevant
income earners through state subsidised ministries and agencies to review housing
housing under the National Housing issues and formulate adaptive policies suited
Programme. to the current situation.

In responding to the issue of providing

housing assistance to the underprivileged
under the MKIS led by the MCYS, the MOD
is looking into developing a whole of nation
approach in the provision of land for low cost
housing equipped with an agricultural and
commercial space. With assistance from
relevant agencies, such initiative acts an
enabler towards breaking the poverty cycle
and building a self-reliant community.
Image: One of the many residential areas under
the National Housing Programme.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 9
The integrated Plan of Action to provide From April 2019 – March 2020, 354 families
housing assistance for the underprivileged with a total amount of B$284,367.00 were
targets for 300 low cost houses to be built assisted for disaster relief and home
within five years. improvements.

Ensuring Access to
Housing

National Housing
Programme
National subsidised housing
programme (MOD)
 30,044 houses built
(1980-May 2019).
Image: One of the houses built under the HFG for Projek Pembinaan Rumah Bantuan
the underprivileged. Golongan Daif, Fakir dan Miskin
(MUIB in collaboration with other
Additionally, for those in immediate need and ministries)
for the underprivileged, the Government,
through the MCYS, provides shelter in the Total allocation of B$35 million housing
form of temporary housing at five centres project in 2008:
throughout the districts, which can  182 houses distributed at cost of
accommodate 259 families. B$7 million (2008-2019).
 28 additional houses to be
distributed in 2020 and ten
planned to be built in 2021.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Brunei Darussalam is cognisant that poverty
is a real issue that must be tackled
sustainably and through a whole of nation
Images: Two of the temporary housing shelters in approach. This includes involving many
Kampong Belimbing and Kampong Sungai Akar. strategic partners such as NGOs, who have
an important role in complementing
Victims of fire or natural disasters who have government programmes, to provide support
lost their homes are also provided these and assistance in various forms to vulnerable
facilities. Where homes have been damaged groups.
or in need of repair, the Government
provides financial assistance which aims to In addition, as a close-knit society, the
ease their burden and hardship. This community spirit remains strong in Brunei
assistance is in the form of a financial grant Darussalam. The sense of responsibility,
for home improvement, humanitarian aid, empathy and caring for those in need is
food rations, basic needs assistance and nurtured from an early age, and as such,
other essentials. volunteerism and community involvement,

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 10
led by the younger generation, is very much public and frontliners, including by producing
active in the country. Personal Protective Equipment, as well as
helping to distribute food rations to families in
During the COVID-19 pandemic and the need. Youth volunteers have also distributed
month of Ramadhan this year, volunteers food rations to nearly 3,000 households of
played an important role in assisting the families in need in April and May 2020.

A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

There is a diverse range of NGOs and other stakeholders that frequently work collaboratively
with the Government in addressing the varying welfare needs of the people.

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation (Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah)
In conjunction with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of
Brunei Darussalam´s Silver Jubilee ascension to the throne on 5 October 1992, His Majesty
consented to the establishment of the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation (Yayasan
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah – YSHHB).

Since its establishment, the Foundation has implemented several projects and activities in line
with its principles and five objectives, which include education and welfare. Strategic partners
and volunteers are a few of the main contributors towards the growth of its social welfare
activities. YSHHB has been active in undertaking projects/activities to enhance the welfare and
livelihoods as well as socio-economic development of the people of Brunei Darussalam, with a
particular focus to those in need.

Welfare:
The projects and activities organised by YSHHB under this objective are focused on enhancing
the welfare and prosperity of life as well as improving the socio-cultural and socio-economic
development of the people of Brunei Darussalam:

 Support to the less fortunate and the needy:

o Emergency and immediate support. This
support is given to ease the burden of victims
of natural disasters, such as floods,
hurricanes, landslides and fire. The support is
given in the form of cash contribution
(donation), as well as basic food supplies and
other appropriate necessities. Workers
support is also given through the YSHHB
voluntary service. YSHHB also contributes to
humanitarian funds established by the Image: YSHHB representative delivering
Government for disaster victims outside their contribution to a recipient.
Brunei Darussalam.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 11
 o Enhancing the socio-economic status of the
less fortunate and the needy. Various appropriate
programmes have been continuously
implemented by YSHHB, either individually or
through the cooperation of its strategic partners,
in order to assist in raising and expanding the
income of the less fortunate and lower income
groups so that they can be independent and free
from poverty. These include entrepreneurship
and small business programmes. Micro Financing
Scheme Programmes are also offered to provide Image: One of the YSHHB training
training for selected target groups and provision programmes.
of financial assistance in the form of grants valued
at B$5,000.00.

o Supporting PWDs. In sharing the responsibility of ensuring the welfare of PWDs,

YSHHB continuously provides support and sponsors associations and relevant NGOs
that operate development and rehabilitation programmes.

o Medical and care support. YSHHB provides assistance to those in need in the form of
diapers, formula, medical supplies as well as financial support for healthcare treatment.

 Youth Development Projects: From time to time, YSHHB provides financial assistance and
support as well as cooperates with other NGOs in handling youth development projects
and programmes in order to enhance the involvement and participation of youth in the
community and country’s development.

 Socio-Cultural Activities Support: To foster and nurture the spirit of excellence in the socio-
cultural field, YSHHB continuously gives support to relevant authorities so as to develop
the fields of literature, writing, culture and sport. For example, the YSHHB ‘Islamic
Literature Awards’ is intended to enrich and preserve the Islamic Literature heritage.

 Housing Support: Housing support is intended to

provide a comfortable and safe home in order to
create a secure family life and thus create a
harmonious society. YSHHB has implemented
two housing projects for the needy:

o YSHHB Housing Scheme. A support project

for the less fortunate (poor and differently
abled) and those with unsafe houses to live in,
it aims to provide comfortable and hygienic
homes. Thus far, 184 houses in all four Image: One of the houses contributed by
districts have been constructed under this the YSHHB.
scheme since its introduction in 1996.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 12
 o Kampong Bolkiah ´A´ and Kampong
Bolkiah ´B´ YSHHB Housing Scheme.
Under this scheme, well-arranged housing in
Kampong Ayer were constructed to provide
accommodation for residents of the Water
Village who were affected by the 1993 fire.
476 houses were constructed, with 226
houses for the first phase at Kampong
Bolkiah ´A´ followed by 250 houses for the
next phase at Kampong Bolkiah ´B´. Two
types of houses were built, which are type ´A´ Image: Kampong Bolkiah YSHHB Housing
(two bedrooms) and type ´B´ (four Scheme.
bedrooms), with only 26 houses of type ´A´.
Participants in this scheme are given a
repayment period of 20 years.

The Brunei Council on Social Welfare (Majlis Kesejahteraan Masyarakat)

The Brunei Council on Social Welfare or Majlis Kesejahteraan Masyarakat (MKM) aims to
complement and supplement the programmes and initiatives by the Government with regards
to social welfare and development, targeting the following main vulnerable groups: Children,
PWDs, Elderly, Poor and the Needy.

MKM’s past and on-going projects include:

 Basic needs support for vulnerable families:
distribution of monthly food packages for vulnerable
families, house repairs, and other necessities.
 Educational support for children and young people
from vulnerable families: providing school supplies,
scholarships, payment of school fees, and transportation
allowance.
 Economic Empowerment Programmes for Women:
social enterprise initiatives for single mothers.
 MKM Legal Advice and Advisory Clinic: free legal
advice, promoting better protection for victims/survivors
of unfair treatment and educating disadvantaged
members of the community about their legal rights. To
date, 100 families have been assisted in various cases
ranging from domestic violence, divorce and settlement Image: Members of the MKM with
recipients.
and property legal disputes.

Hand4Hand Brunei
Hand4Hand Brunei, a non-profit organisation founded in 2016, focuses on volunteerism to
create awareness amongst the people of Brunei Darussalam (particularly the youth) and to
instill the act of giving (time, love and money) to have a positive impact to the community,
especially for the underprivileged families in the country.

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Hand4Hand has collaborated with other NGOs, particularly youth organisations, in peer-to-peer
volunteer mentoring, through effective knowledge transfer, classroom training and also ‘hands-
on’ training; as well as the cultivation of volunteer talents, with trainees going to the ground to
experience for themselves.

Image: Members of Hand4Hand with programme participants.

One example is Project Amal, a collaboration with nine youth organisations, with the objective
of providing clothing for underprivileged families. It involved 200 volunteers as well as public
donors. More than 33,000 pieces of clothing were donated.

Society for Community Outreach and Training (SCOT)

A local NGO established in 2011, SCOT aims to be a
catalyst for sustainable eradication of poverty in Brunei
Darussalam by coming up with more sustainable ways
and strategies to help the underprivileged by providing
them assistance in the form of resources, basic skills
and support. The main goal of SCOT is to help
underprivileged families in Brunei Darussalam move out
of the vicious cycle of poverty through ongoing
sustainable projects.

The youth in Brunei Darussalam acts as a key

contributor to attaining a better and more sustainable Image: A community outreach
future for the country. SCOT provides a platform to programme by SCOT.
raise awareness and educate the youth on issues
regarding poverty in Brunei Darussalam. It also
provides volunteering opportunities, a space for youth
engagement, and come up with projects that gravitate
around the SDGs.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 14
SCOT’s projects include:

SCOT Ummi Bags: Ramadhan Charity Drive:

An initiative to raise funds by selling An annual event held during the festive
merchandise (a shopping tote bag) to support season which visits 100 families across
and empower single mothers through start-up Brunei Darussalam and provides them
capital for their entrepreneurial ideas. It is basic necessities, to help ease the hardship
also an initiative to reduce plastic waste as of socio-economically challenged families.
these Ummi Bags are reusable. This initiative In 2019, more than 40 local youth
was in partnership with Hoco Agency, a local volunteered to distribute these household
advertising company. necessities to the families.

Youth Against Poverty 4.0 (YAP)

Organised in conjunction with the Futuremakers initiative by Standard Chartered Bank, YAP
brings together a total of ten local start-ups looking to initiate a social business to benefit
underprivileged communities. YAP 4.0 consisted of a three-day workshop to further educate on
the importance of alleviating poverty in Brunei Darussalam and encouraged participants to
come up with their own projects that aim to help the underprivileged. The winner and runner up
were awarded B$10,000 and B$5,000 respectively to run their project ideas.

Social Kitchen
A project that ran once a week during the holy month of Ramadhan in 2019, where single
mothers were recruited to prepare food packets to be sold and donated to mosques for sungkai
(the breaking of fast). The programme helped equip single mothers with business, technical
and marketing skills in order to empower them to be more entrepreneurial while at the same
time encouraging youth to volunteer their time and to assist the single mothers.

Images: SCOT’s Social Kitchen programme.

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Sustainable Development Goal 2
End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote
sustainable agriculture

Image: His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam
reaping the first commercial harvest of Sembada 188 paddy at Wasan Agricultural Area, in February 2019.

Brunei Darussalam is committed to The Government, through the Ministry of

strengthening the country’s food security, Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT),
which will ensure its citizens’ access to has strengthened efforts to develop its
adequate supply of safe and nutritious food agricultural sector. In 2018, the gross output
at affordable prices. of agricultural production was B$436.3
million, representing an increase of 6.6%
ENSURING FOOD SECURITY from B$409.3 million in 2017.
Brunei Darussalam’s sources of food are
largely through imports whereby in 2019, the Of this, 56.1% (B$244.6 million) was derived
country imported food from over ninety from the livestock industry; 14.6% (B$63.7
countries. To minimise this heavy reliance on million) was produced by the crop industry;
imports, various initiatives and programmes whereas the remaining balance (29.3%) with
have been implemented to increase an estimated value of B$128 million was
domestic production and capacity, in order to contributed by the agrifood industry. All of
increase the country’s self-sufficiency levels. these agricultural industries have each

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shown an increase of 6.6% in production Tonnes of milled rice, which will contribute
value as compared to 2017. 11% - 15% of the national rice requirement
by 2025.
Self Sufficiency Achievements
Figure 1: Local Paddy Yield (Metric Tonnes),
3.3% annual growth in Actual and Forecast
agricultural and agrifood 13,968
production between 2015 and 12,593
2018. 10,786
7,895
100% self-sufficiency level (SSL) 6,099
reached for production of chicken 4,394
eggs. 2,308
1,649
90% and 29% SSL for production

2010

2015

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025
of poultry meat and red meat.

47% and 37% SSL for production

of vegetables and fruits. Other initiatives include field research and
trials of different varieties of rice from
Rice is a staple food in Brunei Darussalam Republic of Indonesia, Republic of the Union
and as reiterated by His Majesty Sultan Haji of Myanmar and People’s Republic of China,
Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di- to test their suitability to Brunei Darussalam’s
Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, attaining self- climate and soil conditions. All these efforts
sufficiency in rice production will remain a will enable the country to achieve its
national priority. The Department of trajectory of rice self-sufficiency by three-
Agriculture and Agrifood (DOAA) continues folds over the next five to six years.
to put greater efforts to increase local
production by employing hybrid and high The Government has reassured that there is
yielding varieties, adopting modern farming always an adequate supply of rice in the
and dual seasons cropping practices, market sold at reasonable prices. Such
encouraging domestic entrepreneurship, commitment was evident during the COVID-
including among the youth, as well as 19 pandemic, in which the general public
introducing commercial-based rice was reassured of the sufficient rice stock of
production at a larger scale. more than six-months supply.
New planting areas have also been In its efforts to ensure the standard and
developed, such as the Agricultural safety of its produce, the country has in place
Development Area of Kandol, which is an policies and legislations, in line with
area of 500 hectares operated by PaddyCo, international practices, to cover elements of
a newly established government-owned prevention against infection of diseases;
company. The first phase of the project has public health; agricultural pests and noxious
started since early 2019 and the second plants; and protection of plant varieties.
phase is expected to commence in the These include the Wholesome Meat Order
second half of 2020. The project is expected 2011, Quarantine and Prevention of Disease
to contribute 6,000 to 8,000 Metric Tonnes of Act (Cap. 47) (1984 Ed), Brunei Good
paddy, an equivalent of 3,600 to 4,800 Metric

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 17
Agricultural Practice which is equivalent to for production are aimed towards sustainable
the Association of South East Asian Nations agriculture. Brunei Darussalam also
(ASEAN) Good Agricultural Practice, Good undertakes regional and bilateral
Animal Husbandry Practices and Good cooperation, as part of its efforts to ensure
Manufacturing Practice. Such regulatory adequate, affordable, safe and nutritious
mechanisms together with various initiatives food supply.

Regional Initiatives
Food Security and Nutrition
ASEAN Ministers of Agriculture and Forestry Framework:
 Formation of ASEAN Integrated Food Security Framework.
 Strategic Plan of Action on ASEAN Food Security 2015 -2020.

ASEAN Plus Three (People’s Republic of China, Japan and Republic of Korea):
Strategic cooperation focused on agendas related to, among others, food security,
sustainable forest management, adaptation and mitigation of climate change, animal
health and prevention of crop and livestock diseases, and productivity improvement:
 Implementation of ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve Agreement.
 Implementation of ASEAN Plus Three Food Security Information System.

Bilateral arrangements
Selected Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)/Protocol with:
 Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Kingdom of Thailand in the area of
Technical Cooperation Programme on Rice Production Technology;
 Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh on cooperation in
livestock as well as on scientific and technical cooperation in agriculture;
 General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China on the
Protocol on Inspection, Quarantine and Veterinary Sanitary Requirements for
Wild Aquatic Products to be Exported from Brunei Darussalam to the PRC;
 Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on agricultural
cooperation;
 Government of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam on ‘The Use of Hotline for
Information – Exchange to address Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated
Fishing’ as well as on cooperation in agriculture and fisheries.
 Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute on cooperation in
agricultural research and development.

CHILD NUTRITION
One of Brunei Darussalam’s priority Organization (WHO)’s global targets for
initiatives in the prevention and control of identifying priority areas in maternal, infant
obesity and non-communicable diseases and young child nutrition.
(NCDs) is to focus on optimal nutrition status
from the early years. This strategic initiative, The Ministry of Health (MOH) is committed to
known as ‘Giving Every Child the Best Start monitoring the progress of achieving targets,
in Life’, has adapted the World Health among others, in reducing stunting among

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children under-five, reduction in low birth These guidelines, developed by the MOH in
weight, controlling childhood obesity, collaboration with the Ministry of Culture,
increasing the rate of exclusive Youth and Sports (MCYS), serve to guide all
breastfeeding in the first six months, and local child care centre providers when
reducing childhood wasting. establishing their centres, to ensure optimum
and supportive environments for infants’ and
The Government continues to strengthen young children’s nutrition and activity needs.
whole of nation actions under the ‘National
Strategy for Maternal, Infant and Young These guidelines also serve as a useful
Child Nutrition (MIYCN) in Brunei resource and reference guide for
Darussalam 2014-2020’, which was the first policymakers and related stakeholders
national framework for MIYCN in the country. particularly those involved in the
management, operations and regulations of
Brunei Darussalam promotes exclusive child care centres.
breastfeeding for the first six months of life,
and recently launched an initiative to provide The MOH has also implemented the
free breastpumps for newly expecting Healthier Choice Logo since 2017, whereby
mothers. Also provided are free food industries, particularly food
breastfeeding classes for expecting mothers manufacturers and food suppliers, either
as well as a dedicated hotline for those who international or local, are encouraged to
need breastfeeding advice. Additionally, the reformulate and produce healthier choice
prices for milk formula for children are products in the market. Products that comply
controlled through the Price Control Act with the healthier choice criteria can be
(Cap. 142). awarded a healthier choice logo to be affixed
onto their packaging. This helps to create
In 2017, as part of efforts to achieve the demand and supply of healthier choice
country’s vision for a healthier nation, Brunei products in Brunei Darussalam.
Darussalam introduced excise taxes on food
products with high sugar and monosodium To meet nutritional goals, mitigate obesity
glutamate (MSG) contents. The amount of and improve access to equal and equitable
tax imposed is B$4.00 per ten litres on drinks education, in order to achieve the fullest
with sugar content of six grams or more per potential of all students, Brunei Darussalam,
100 ml and of 30% of the price for MSG. through the Ministry of Education, offers two
Healthier choices in schools are promoted forms of food programmes in schools:
through the ‘School Canteen Guidelines’ and i) The ‘Feeding Scheme’, started in 1954,
the ‘Drinking Water Policy’. serves healthy meals and/or snacks to
eligible students in primary schools and
Meanwhile, for maintaining nutrition in child hostels nationwide. In 2019, 29,755
care centres, a ‘National Nutrition and students were eligible; and
Physical Activity Guidelines for Child Care ii) The ‘Program Harapan dan Anak
Centres’ was developed in 2019, which Harapan’, developed in June 2018,
represents a milestone in the development of targets the most disadvantaged 41
an essential public health policy for children primary schools (to supplement the
especially in ensuring their optimal nutrition Feeding Scheme) and 5 secondary
and adequate physical activity. schools to provide meal plans. In 2019,
11,695 students were eligible.

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Sustainable Development Goal 3
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
As highlighted in its Wawasan Brunei 2035, As a commitment to strengthen the national
Brunei Darussalam recognises the health system and service in the country, the
importance of health in determining the MOH has formulated a Strategic Plan 2019-
quality of life and wellbeing of the people as 2023, which prioritises five key goals:
well as its contributing role to national i) Excellence in healthcare services;
development. The country also ii) Prevention and control of Non-
acknowledges that healthcare is one of its Communicable Diseases (NCDs);
major public investments in human iii) Protection of public health through
development and that healthy and productive effective policies and regulations;
citizens will positively contribute to socio- iv) Sustainability through resource
economic development. optimisation and innovation; and
v) Transparent and proactive governance.
TOGETHER TOWARDS A HEALTHY
NATION The Strategic Plan is aligned with the World
Universal health coverage is the cornerstone Health Organization (WHO)’s
of Brunei Darussalam’s health policy. As recommendations on strategic health
such, quality of life in the country is enhanced indicators and targets as a measure of the
through the planning and implementation of country’s health status, risk factors, service
a healthcare system framework towards coverage and health systems. Extending
universal health coverage for people at all beyond healthcare in a clinical setting, the
levels. Strategic Plan includes prevention and
control of diseases as well as protection of
The Ministry of Health (MOH) through their public health at large. Most importantly, this
vision of ‘Together Towards a Healthy Plan aspires to consistently place people,
Nation’ ensures the country’s continuous and not merely the diseases, at the centre of
provision of a high quality and the country’s healthcare.
comprehensive health system that is
effective, efficient, responsive, affordable,
equitable and accessible. Its comprehensive
health system covers all aspects of health
promotion, prevention and control of illness,
treatment and rehabilitation.

This vision is fully aligned with SDG3 which

emphasises the importance of achieving
universal health coverage, including financial
risk protection, access to quality essential
healthcare services and access to safe,
quality and affordable essential medicines Image: Universal health coverage.
and vaccines for all.

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Brunei Darussalam has made remarkable maternal and child mortality rates. In 2018,
achievements particularly in meeting most of the country’s life expectancy was about 77.5
the global health targets, including the years.
attainment of universal health coverage and
certification of free from infectious diseases In addition to the provision of public health
namely polio, malaria, measles and rubella. services, there are also specialised private
healthcare centres, such as Jerudong Park
Quality and accessible medical, dental and Medical Centre (JPMC), Gleaneagles JPMC
healthcare continues to be provided at a and Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre,
nominal fee of B$1 for citizens. This includes which itself consists of three centres, namely
high quality maternal and child health the Brunei Cancer Centre, Brunei
services covering vaccination programmes Neuroscience Stroke and Rehabilitation
and antenatal screenings, which have Centre as well as the Maxillofacial, Facial
significantly contributed to the country’s low Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Centre.

Selected Health Achievements

High Quality >95% antenatal coverage

maternal and child
health services 100% births attended by skilled health personnel

Universal health >80% coverage of essential services

coverage
80% customer satisfaction

High immunisation >95% immunisation coverage for Diphtheria, Tetanus,

coverage Pertussis, Influenza, Polio, Hepatitis (DTP-Hib-
IPV-HepB 3), Mumps, Measles, Rubella and
Hepatitis B (birth dose).

100% Treatment coverage for Tuberculosis (TB) and

drug resistant TB.

PRIORITISING HEALTH OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN

As one of its priority agenda on health, as they are key to the progress on all
Brunei Darussalam is continuously development goals. Brunei Darussalam is in
committed to improving the health of women a good position to continue achieving the
and children. This has thus far resulted in the targets of reducing the global maternal
maintenance of low maternal mortality rates mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live
and the achievement of the target set under births as well as reducing the neonatal
the SDGs for neonatal and child mortality. mortality rate to at least as low as 12 per
Such commitment is in line with the call by 1,000 live births and under-5 mortality rate to
the global community, such as the United at least as low as 25 per 1,000 live births.
Nations (UN) and WHO, which recognises
and strongly advocates the importance for Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services in
the improvement of women and child health Brunei Darussalam has expanded

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 21
throughout the country and there are IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH AND
currently 14 health centres, three health WELL-BEING
clinics, three travelling clinics and two flying Recognising that health encompasses
medical services. In addition to providing mental health and well-being, the
high quality antenatal, postnatal and child Government has undertaken efforts to
healthcare, the MCH services also provide improve the mental health and well-being of
health screening and birth spacing service its people. The Mental Health Order 2014,
for women through the Well-Woman Clinic. which came into force on 1 November 2014
Home nursing care for mothers and infants to replace the Lunacy Act 1929 (Cap. 48),
are also included in the first week following aims to ensure equality, non-discrimination
delivery as well as home visits for monitoring and shared responsibility of stakeholders
certain high-risk patients and for tracing when addressing the care and treatment of
patients who miss their appointments. mentally disordered persons. It is also to
ensure a patient-centred and holistic
approach in the care and treatment of
mentally disordered persons including their
rehabilitation and reintegration into the
community. Specific provisions were
included for special categories of patients
including those who lack the capacity to give
consent for treatment. There are additional
provisions for safeguarding the welfare of
mentally disordered persons at risk of abuse
or neglect, and those incapable of managing
themselves and their affairs.
Image: Prioritising health of women and children.
The country also stresses the importance of
The completion of the new Women and
giving support and respect to individuals who
Children Centre in 2014 marked a significant
are experiencing mental health issues. In this
milestone in the history of women and child
regard, the Government launched the ‘Talian
healthcare in the country. The new Centre
Harapan 145’, a national mental health
provides enhanced holistic care and
helpline, where qualified counsellors are
integrated services for better quality, more
available to provide advice or counselling in
efficient and effective healthcare system to
handling situations or pressure that can
the patients. The MOH has also developed a
cause mental or emotional disruption.
‘National Strategy for Maternal, Infant and
Young Child Nutrition’ (MIYCN) with a
Although mental health is a fundamental
mission to improve the health and nutritional
component of health, recognition of mental
status of mothers and mothers-to-be, infants
disorders and awareness about its
and young children. It reflects global targets
importance is limited. In Brunei Darussalam,
outlined by the WHO in the Comprehensive
the social stigma and lack of understanding
Implementation Plan on MIYCN to reduce
about mental disorders are major barriers to
incidences of childhood stunting, wasting
seeking help amongst the public. Therefore,
and overweight, low birth weight infants and
increasing understanding and overcoming
to increase the rate of exclusive
stigma through strategic communications
breastfeeding.
and social mobilisation are crucial steps

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 22
towards strengthening mental health the prevention and control of NCDs and also
programmes locally. recently included under the purview of the
Multi-Sectoral Taskforce on Health in 2019.
Mental health promotion usually involves It is hoped that these actions can help the
actions that improve psychological well- country to achieve the vision of a mentally
being. The MOH, through various healthy and resilient nation.
departments and in collaboration with
relevant stakeholders, has gradually PROTECTING PUBLIC HEALTH
increased its mental health promotion Brunei Darussalam’s focus is also to
activities in addition to the services currently maintain its relatively low communicable
provided. One such initiative is the anti - bully disease burden, reduce the risk of
programme, ‘Bully - Free Brunei’ (‘Brunei importation of communicable diseases and
Bebas Buli’), which focuses on children, maintain preparedness in responding to any
particularly in the school setting. So far, more outbreaks of infectious disease of public
than 40 out of 152 schools have participated health concern. Emerging and re-emerging
in the workshops run by this programme infectious diseases remain as a significant
since it was first launched in 2018. This public health threat regionally and globally as
campaign, which is a collaboration between evidenced by the impacts of the COVID-19
the MOH and the Ministry of Education pandemic.
(MOE), is further complemented by other
mental health promotion activities conducted Although Brunei Darussalam has made
in schools. significant improvements in making the
country safer, it needs to continue to
The MOH has also organised several mental enhance its capacities and preparedness
health promotion programmes in level through a whole of nation approach
workplaces. Dubbed the ‘i-Mind linking all relevant sectors and players,
Programme’, this initiative focuses on the including finance, health, agriculture,
wellbeing and emotional resilience of the environment, emergency responders,
workforce apart from increasing their security agencies and others, in working
understanding of mental disorders. Mental closely together to protect the public health.
health awareness campaigns have also
been conducted in the community, through In October 2019, Brunei Darussalam
an initiative called ‘Mind Your Mind’ (‘Jaga conducted the Joint External Evaluation
Minda Kita’). This effort, which aims to raise (JEE) of International Health Regulations
public awareness and understanding about (IHR) Core Capacities, an assessment of
mental disorders, has been carried out Brunei Darussalam’s capacity to prevent,
annually since 2014 in public places detect and respond to public health threats
including major shopping malls, cafes and (which may be biological, chemical or
mosques. radiological in nature) and a joint review of
the country’s capacities to prepare for and
Realising the multi-sectoral nature of the respond to complex public health
social determinants of and interventions for emergencies. A team of international health
mental health, as well as its many experts and their national counterparts met
associations with NCDs, mental health to evaluate Brunei Darussalam’s capacities
promotion has been elevated as a key in 19 technical areas.
initiative under the MOH’s strategic goals on

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Together, these areas, including disease Brunei Darussalam is committed to the
surveillance, national legislation, risk global targets for NCDs, whereby within the
communication capacity, food safety, next five years, the country targets to curb
zoonotic disease and biosafety and obesity and diabetes; reduce the rate of
biosecurity, span the capacities required tobacco use by 30%; reduce the rate of those
under the International Health Regulations suffering from high blood pressure by 25%;
(2005) to respond to all known natural and reduce the rate of high sugar drinks intake
man-made emergency health threats. The among children by 50%; and reduce the rate
National Committee on the Implementation of tooth decay in children.
of the WHO IHR 2005, chaired by the
Minister of Health, will review, consider and This whole of nation approach in tackling
plan for the implementation of the various NCDs has been further strengthened with
recommendations from the JEE, once the the establishment of the Multisectoral
official report is finalised and released by the Taskforce on Health that currently oversees
WHO. The official report is expected to be five main cross-functional issues, namely:
released in 2020. i) Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life;
ii) Reducing Smoking;
PREVENTING AND CONTROLLING NCDs iii) Improving Brunei Darussalam’s Food
Brunei Darussalam’s ‘National Multisectoral Environment;
Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of iv) Supporting Active Communities; and
NCDs (BruMAP-NCD) 2013-2018’ was v) Ensuring A Mentally Health and Resilient
developed to prevent and control NCDs Nation.
through enabling healthier environments as
well as reducing risk factors and better The Task Force is chaired by the Minister of
management. The goal is to achieve 18% Health and members comprised of several
relative reduction by 2018 in Brunei Permanent Secretaries and Heads of
Darussalam to be fully aligned with the global Departments from relevant government
target of a 25% relative reduction in agencies. Identified actions have been
premature mortality from NCDs by 2025. agreed on for each initiative and
Evaluation on this goal has been done by two implemented by the MOH in collaboration
WHO consultants in November 2019, in with related government agencies, with
which the report is currently being drafted. quarterly reporting on the progress of the
various initiatives and actions.
There are two strategic themes to the Action
Plan, namely improving health through
enabling environment and healthy choices,
and improving health through enhancing the
continuum of care for NCDs, with five
objectives, which are to:
i) Reduce tobacco use;
ii) Promote balanced and healthy diet;
iii) Increase physical activity;
iv) Identify people at risk for NCDs and
manage effectively; and
v) Improve the quality of care and outcome Image: Promoting healthy lifestyles at all ages.
of NCDs management.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 24
 Prevention and Control of NCDs:
Introduction of the National Health Development of School Canteen
Screening Programme to detect Guidelines and Drinking Water
and prevent NCDs which allows Policy, for health promotion in
early and effective management of schools.
these diseases.
Development of the National
Amendments to the Customs Import Nutrition and Physical Activity
Tax and Excise Duties which Guidelines for Child Care Centres.
includes an increase in excise duty
for food and beverages that contain Community engagement
high sugar and monosodium programmes such as through the
glutamate content. Mukim Sihat Programme and
Health Ambassadors’ Programme.
No importation and sales of
tobacco products since May 2014. Workplace and Health Programme
(WAH), a collaborative programme
Healthier Choice Logo to between MOH and Gleneagles
encourage the reformulation and Jerudong Park Medical Centre, to
production of healthier choice provide workplace environment that
products to help consumers make support employees to eat healthy, be
informed food choices. more active and tobacco-free, in
addition to having good mental well-
being.

EMPOWERING THE ELDERLY

the total population. UN 2019 estimations
showed that the elderly population in the
country is expected to double by 20304. In
2017, the National Council on Social Issues
(MKIS) reviewed and approved the Senior
Citizens Action Plan, which is in line with the
2002 Madrid International Plan of Action on
Ageing and the Global strategy and action
plan on ageing and health (2016-2020).

This Action Plan has three main objectives to

ensure healthy and active citizens, namely
develop productive and independent senior
Image: One of the regular Tai Chi sessions at
Tasek Lama Recreational Park.
citizens, ensure the welfare and wellbeing of
senior citizens and provide friendly support
In 2019, senior citizens aged 65 years or systems for senior citizens in ensuring a
above accounted for approximately 4.8% of friendly environment and encourage them to
be actively involved in the community.

4 UN World Population Prospects (2019).

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 25
In support of such Action Plan is the can continue to live a healthy lifestyle and
implementation of the senior citizens’ health enjoy good quality of life.
promotion programme which was first
introduced at the Senior Citizen Activity Healthcare in Brunei Darussalam has
Centre in Lambak Kanan, Brunei-Muara evolved rapidly over the years to where it is
District in 2014. now achieving universal health coverage and
the provision of comprehensive services
This was followed by a similar programme encompassing primary, secondary to tertiary
conducted specifically for a local senior care and also public health services that
citizen association, PENYULUH, in the Belait serve in protecting the health and safety of
District in 2015. The programme was the general population.
reviewed and re-introduced at the Senior
Citizen Activity Centres in the Tutong District Recognising the cross-cutting nature of
in 2018 and in the Belait District in 2019. This health issues and the importance of
revised programme is planned to be rolled engagement and partnership for health
out to the Brunei-Muara and Temburong through a whole of nation approach, the
Districts in 2020. The aim of the programme MOH continues to actively engage other
is to raise awareness of senior citizens on relevant stakeholders and together, the
health-related issues, specific health country intends to translate the strategic plan
services and issues related to ageing as well for health into integrated actions, to derive
as to empower senior citizens so that they significant health outcomes and improve the
wellbeing of the people.

Image: Supporting World Cancer Day 2019.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 26
A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council (BDAIDSCOUNCIL)

The BDAIDSCOUNCIL aims to educate the public about HIV and AIDS in
order to be well informed and live a healthier life, with activities including:

 Establishment of the Penyinar Club, the youth division of the

BDAIDSCOUNCIL:
o To motivate the youth members and other youth to practise a
healthy and positive way of living;
o To reach out to as many youths as possible on HIV/AIDS related matters for HIV
and AIDS prevention; and
o To spread awareness on HIV, AIDS and related issues, especially among youth
in Brunei Darussalam.
 HIV Awareness Programme for Peers and Youth (HAPPY), which is a youth-led
project that spreads awareness on HIV throughout the country, including knowledge on
teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. It combines videos, audio,
visuals, games, songs, jokes, debates as well as comic strips to pass the message to
young people.
 Life Skills Training (LESTARI) is a programme to teach young people various life skills
in an interactive and youth-friendly setting. While physically, mentally and emotionally
challenging, the programme is expected to assist the participants in facing their future
life.
 Organising World AIDS Day programmes with forums and engagements with
stakeholders.
 National Workshop on reproductive health for school counsellors and school
leaders.
 Anonymous HIV testing.
 Future plans include:
o The formation and empowerment of Community Groups. Based on the success
of the Penyinar Club, BDAIDSCOUNCIL plans to reach out to the grassroots
level to further engage and educate society. In the long term, this includes
various community groups whenever possible.
o A wider range of HIV and AIDS related services e.g. anonymous testing, support
groups etc.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 27
Sustainable Development Goal 4
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong
learning opportunities for all
As a small nation with a population of less system that prepares and equips the young
than half a million, education plays a critical generation for their present and future roles
role in Brunei Darussalam’s development. in the development of the country and as
The country has always prioritised universal global citizens.
access to education for its citizens,
emphasising on equity and equality for all. It Through the ‘Strategic Plan for 2018-2022’,
recognises the crucial need for human the MOE has set its mission to deliver holistic
resource development in order to meet its education to achieve the fullest potential for
needs for an educated and marketable all in line with its vision of ‘Quality Education,
workforce, in which it has made significant Dynamic Nation’. The country’s education
progress. system aims to nurture each and every child,
and to help students discover and maximise
The Ministry of Education (MOE) is their talent, as well as to develop passion for
committed to providing an educational lifelong learning.

Figure 2: Ministry of Education Strategic Plan for 2018-2022

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 28
FREE, BASIC EDUCATION FOR ALL education institutions also play key roles in
In ensuring inclusive and equal access to and make significant contributions to the
quality education, all children are provided National Education System, from preschool
free and compulsory basic education. In and primary education up to higher
2009, the MOE embarked on a new education.
education system, the National Education
System for the 21st Century (SPN21), which EARLY EDUCATION
implemented several changes to the In terms of improving access to quality early
education system, namely the education education, Brunei Darussalam has seen an
structure, curriculum and assessment as well increasing trend in the gross enrolment rate
as technical education. SPN21 allows for and net enrolment rate in pre-primary and
highly capable students to complete their primary education. The country has
secondary education in four years rather successfully achieved and maintained high
than five years. It caters to students’ needs, pre-primary enrolment of five-year old
by providing multiple pathways for students children. School leaders actively engage
to choose programmes that suit their parents at least eight months before the
capabilities, interests, inclinations, growth school year starts.
and development.

The SPN21 ensures that within broad

learning areas, learners will develop
knowledge, understanding and essential
skills, with the attitudes and values to ensure
holistic development within the context of the
21st century. This provides the basis for
lifelong learning and employability in a
progressive and challenging world.
Additionally, it seeks to inculcate sound
moral values as a strong foundation in an era Image: Parents involvement in the SAFE
of rapid progress and change, and to programme in 2019.
empower educated and highly skilled people
to be ready for the challenges to come. Since 2014, the MOE has enhanced
parenting education through the ‘School and
Brunei Darussalam implements a policy of Family Engagement (SAFE) Programme’ in
providing 12 years of education to all all pre-schools, which enables parents to be
children. This consists of one year of pre- deeply involved in their children’s literacy
school education, six years of primary development.
education, three years of lower secondary
education and two years of upper secondary Brunei Darussalam also introduced the
or vocational and technical education. Assistant Teacher Volunteer Programme to
Meanwhile, the Compulsory Education Act enable volunteers to be placed in schools to
2007 mandates for all children aged 6 to 14, assist pre-school teachers to ensure that all
irrespective of gender, race or abilities, to students are better able to access quality
attend school regularly to ensure that early childhood education.
children receive at least nine years of formal
education. Private and international

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 29
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION In January 2019, the MOE embarked on a
In ensuring inclusive quality education for all, major centralisation initiative to set up two
students with special needs are provided Centres of Excellence for students with
with special education programmes, at both special needs in the Temburong District.
primary and secondary mainstream These Centres offer appropriate
government schools. The number of current infrastructures and facilities, specialised
students with special needs in these schools resources and learning equipment, while
has reached to about 2,014 students. providing Special Education Needs
Modifications and/or adaptations are made Assistance (SENA) teachers and teacher
to the curriculum, as well as in teaching and aides to meet student needs based on their
learning strategies to suit the needs of these diagnosis. The Centres aim to promote equal
students, so that they may achieve their and equitable opportunities according to
fullest potential. student needs and abilities in order to ensure
access, engagement and active
participation.

LITERACY AND NUMERACY

Since the formalisation of education in 1912,
Brunei Darussalam has made remarkable
progress in its literacy rate. The basic literacy
rate has increased from 69.4% in 1971, to
96.9% in 2016 and 97.2% in 2019.
Image: Learning Daily Living Skill and ICT in a The Centralised Assessment Unit (CAU) at
school under the Model Inclusive Schools
the MOE was formed to provide evidence-
Project.
based data and comprehensive reports in
In 2008, the Model Inclusive Schools Project improving teaching pedagogy and students’
was introduced and implemented in selected learning outcomes based on Student
primary and secondary schools, with the aim Assessment Trackers (SAT). The SAT is a
of improving access and participation for standardised measure on Literacy and
students with special needs. Numeracy that provides data which can be
used to improve students’ competency.

Brunei Darussalam also participated in the

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development (OECD) Programme for
International Student Assessment (PISA) for
the first time in 2018 to measure its students’
proficiency in Reading, Mathematics and
Science, benchmarking against 79 other
countries and economies. Among the
participating ASEAN Member States, Brunei
Darussalam was ranked 3rd in all domains of
Image: Cooking and gardening projects in Centre
the PISA 2018. Overall results have placed
of Excellence, Sultan Hassan Primary School,
Temburong District. Brunei Darussalam in the 60th place for

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 30
Reading, 51st for Mathematics and 50th for developing policy, framework and guideline
Science. to promote access to LLL, reviewing the
provision of LLL, and promoting enrolment in
Since 2016, the country has implemented LLL programmes and activities.
the Brunei Darussalam Literacy and
Numeracy Standard which provides a There are several other LLL centres under
national benchmark for all schools the MOE, which also support the Ministry’s
implementing the SPN21 curriculum which strategic initiatives through their LLL
include instruction, assessment, and programmes and activities such as the
intervention. This is to ensure that students Centre for Lifelong Learning at Universiti
are able to achieve a high level of Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Leadership and
competency in literacy and numeracy by the Lifelong Learning Centre at Universiti Islam
end of each school year. Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Tri-CEd at
Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), and
Brunei Darussalam also continues to Continuing Education and Training under the
undertake several initiatives to improve Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE
literacy levels and quality of teaching for CET).
children, such as the distribution of Early
Literacy packs in joint collaboration with OPPORTUNITIES FOR FURTHER
various ministries. The Language and EDUCATION
Literature Bureau conducts an Early Literacy Brunei Darussalam offers various alternative
Programme, which includes educating programmes for its post-secondary students
expectant parents on the importance of to cater to their strengths and interests. Its
reading and early literacy. local universities, UBD, UTB and UNISSA,
offer numerous undergraduate and
LIFELONG LEARNING postgraduate degree programmes. As a
The MOE, through its Strategic Plan 2018- reflection of their progress and development,
2022, is committed and dedicated in both UBD and UTB are young universities
supporting Wawasan Brunei 2035 to develop that have recently been highly ranked in the
a knowledge-based society through QS World University Rankings and the QS
increasing the opportunities to lifelong Asian University Rankings.
learning (LLL) and encouraging its people to
embrace the concept of LLL throughout their
life and work.

Realising the importance of such pursuit of

knowledge in Brunei Darussalam, the MOE
has established the Lifelong Learning
Centre, known as the L3 Centre. This Centre
oversees the LLL programmes and activities
conducted by various LLL centres and
providers, and acts as a ‘one-stop
information centre’ for LLL programmes and
activities in the country. The L3 Centre plays Image: UBD.
an important role in supporting the MOE to
improve opportunities for LLL through

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 31
On the other hand, Politeknik Brunei (PB) the minimum requirements to qualify for
was established to cater to the needs of scholarships. In 2018, the Technical and
young Bruneians with Level 5 Diploma Vocational Education Scholarship Scheme
qualifications. Consecutively, Brunei was introduced to provide additional
Darussalam’s Technical Education academic opportunities to school leavers
Transformation resulted in the establishment with 3 ‘O’ levels and below to continue their
of the IBTE. Both of these Technical and studies.
Vocational Education Training institutions
adhere to a demand-driven approach that IMPROVING QUALITY OF TEACHERS
follows the Brunei Darussalam Qualification Brunei Darussalam has taken several
Framework. This framework was developed initiatives towards ensuring that teaching
together with stakeholders to ensure quality and standards can be improved and
alignment with industry needs. The IBTE and enhanced. The MOE has introduced the
PB offer technical education opportunities Brunei Teacher Standards, which is a set of
through a variety of diploma and certification teaching competencies designed to raise the
programmes. quality of teaching, to improve the attainment
of all students and the overall quality of
There are also opportunities to pursue education in Brunei Darussalam.
further education at private higher education
institutions such as Laksamana College of The Brunei Darussalam Teachers Academy
Business, Kemuda Institute, Micronet (BDTA) aims to provide continuous and
International College, International Graduate quality professional development
Studies College, Cosmopolitan College of programmes that develop and build
Commerce and Technology, Mahakarya teachers’ capacity. This programme is
Institutes of the Arts Asia, HADtech College designed to develop the expertise of
and BICPA-FTMS Accountancy Academy. teachers in their respective fields towards
effective teaching and learning, thereby
promoting students’ excellence.

To evaluate its progress in ensuring inclusive

and equitable quality education, Teacher
Performance Appraisal is applied as
performance descriptors for teaching
competencies, with SAT used to measure
students’ achievements and learning in
literacy and numeracy.

Image: UBD graduates. The MOE has newly established the

Department of Educators Management to
Educational scholarships for further ensure the Ministry is supplied with highly
education in both local and overseas skilled and successful human resource
institutions are offered by the Government (teachers, school leaders and specialists)
and private sectors. Additionally, an through a comprehensive and robust human
education loan facility is also made available resource management that focuses on four
to provide support for students who are keen domains:
to pursue higher education but do not meet

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 32
i) Development and implementation of Partnership (STEP) Centre provides a value-
rigorous and comprehensive selection added platform for schools and assists
and recruitment process of teachers; teachers in encouraging and increasing the
ii) Strategic deployment and redeployment involvement of students in quality STEAM
of teachers and school leaders (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and
according to needs and priority; Mathematics) activities and programmes.
iii) Career progression pathway for both One of their initiatives was the Green School
teachers and school leaders; and Gardening (GSG).
iv) Succession planning projection and
provision of pre-retirement programmes Other initiatives include empowerment of
to educators who are going to retire. students in digital literacy via programming
and coding competitions. Such competitions
The MOE has also embarked on the Literacy have been co-organised by STEP Centre
and Numeracy Coaching Programme and the Authority for Info-communications
towards realising SPN21 policy objectives on Technology Industry as early as in primary
improving student learning outcomes in line schools and with full support from the
with National Literacy and Numeracy Curriculum Development Department and
Standards. The strategic objectives of this BDTA in providing educational materials and
programme are to achieve high quality training respectively.
English Language and Mathematics
teaching; produce highly literate and
numerate students; and a system
empowered to deliver sustained
improvements in literacy and numeracy.

In July 2019, 149 English Language and

Mathematics teachers, 24% beyond the
targeted number, were accredited as
Coaches, thus ensuring the sustainability of
the programme. These coaches comprised
of a pool of selected teachers of the English Image: Students harvesting lettuce and planting
Language and Mathematics who have Pak Choi during the GSG programme.
completed a Coaching Integrated
Professional Development for three phases Since the introduction of SPN21, the MOE
(Accredited, Specialist and Expert) for up to has incorporated topics on Global
12-15 months and are supported via one-on- Citizenship Education in formal curriculum at
one in-school coaching based on different levels of education, both in
specialisation (English Language or classroom settings and through extra-
Mathematics) and pedagogical approach curricular activities, to educate students
using Teaching for Mastery Framework in about global matters in different levels of
English Language and Mathematics. education.

SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP

In progressing towards the acquisition of 4th To enhance the global partnership for
Industrial Revolution skills, the Ministry’s development, the Government offers
Science, Technology and Environmental scholarships for international students to

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 33
pursue higher level education in various Scientific and Cultural Organization, Islamic
academic institutions in Brunei Darussalam. World Educational, Scientific and Cultural
The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship is Organization, Asia-Pacific Economic
awarded to outstanding scholars, students Cooperation and Asia-Europe Education
and professionals to undertake graduate Ministers Meeting to ensure a quality
study and advanced research in UBD. The education system and highly skilled
scholarship provides Bruneian and non- workforce that are benchmarked against
Bruneian candidates with the unique global standards.
opportunity to pursue their academic and
research goals and network extensively with In progressing towards Wawasan Brunei
international researchers. 2035, the Government will continue to invest
in its people by providing equal and equitable
Brunei Darussalam also continues to access to education that will not only meet
collaborate through policy discussions, the needs of individuals, but also develop
sharing of best practices, and technical younger generations equipped with 21st
cooperation with its regional and century skills and Malay Islamic Monarchy
international partners such as the driven values that are required for them to be
Association of Southeast Asian Nations, future ready.
Southeast Asian Ministers of Education
Organization, United Nations Educational,

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 34
A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

La Vida
La Vida, a local non-profit organisation, focuses on providing
emotional, financial and social support to families in need. In
addition, La Vida provides educational support for underprivileged
students through provision of programmes such as:

Homework Club:
This is a pilot programme to provide
supplementary teaching by staff and
volunteer teachers to underprivileged
primary level students from selected
schools. With the aim of raising the
academic levels of underprivileged students
based on school assessment tests and
scores, the programme focuses on
Mathematics and English Language skills.
Snacks are also provided during the
programme. Future plans include extending
the programme into more schools and
increasing the involvement of the private
sector and individuals through volunteering Image: La Vida’s Homework Club Programme.
or sponsorship of resources or meals.

Study Pack donation:

Annually, an average of 300-400

study packs that consist of school
bags and stationery, are given out to
underprivileged students.

The La Vida thrift shop also provides

a free Book Library for
underprivileged and special needs
children/youth.
Image: LA VIDA’s Study Pack donation programme

Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Brunei Darussalam

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Brunei Darussalam, a non-profit Chinese business
association established in 1946, comprises of businesses which represent a wide range of
industries in the country, including manufacturing, professional services, insurance, law,
wholesale and retail trade.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 35
Aside from its business activities, the Chamber provides assistance to less fortunate students
through its Education Fund, which has helped many students complete their tertiary education,
among others, in Law, Medicine & Business.

Moving forward, the Chamber aims to strengthen this fund and provide further opportunities to
potential students.

Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) ALAF Programme

The BIBD ALAF Programme was launched in May 2013 by Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri
Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah. Currently supporting 240 students (as of January
2020), this unique programme supports the life-long learning aspirations of its students.

One of the objectives of the BIBD ALAF Programme is to ensure that talented, underprivileged
students are not limited by their financial circumstances. Students are selected based on the
family’s monthly household income. In order to be selected for the programme, students must
achieve excellent examination results (scoring 85% and above) for 3 consecutive years.

In addition to comprehensive financial and academic support, the BIBD ALAF Programme
provides opportunities for students to take part in events such as workshops, motivational talks,
career counselling as well as recreational activities. Students who are deemed to need more
support are also provided with Educational Intervention Programmes such as tuition, personal
coaching and study groups.

The programme is kept sustainable by the collaborative efforts of both the private and public
sector, which includes BIBD’s own charity expeditions, generous contributions from corporate
agencies as well as the general public.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 36
Sustainable Development Goal 5
Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
Women in Brunei Darussalam play an non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
important role in the development of the towards ensuring unified action from all
country, and contribute openly and equally to stakeholders involved in women's affairs.
society. In recognition of their involvement This Plan of Action, which is currently being
and impact, the country is fully committed to revised, has the strategic objective to
the advancement of all women and girls. develop women’s optimum potential through
gender equity, capacity building and self-
Significant progress has been made towards development. It has eight priority areas,
women empowerment and gender equality in including the promotion and protection of
Brunei Darussalam. Women and girls are rights, healthcare, economic empowerment,
given equal opportunities in education, employment and work life balance.
training, healthcare, employment, ownership Currently, a study on Women Development
of assets, benefits as well as citizenship. in the country is being considered, with the
Women’s equal economic participation is outcomes to be incorporated into the revised
further ensured through non-discriminatory Plan of Action.
access to incentives and entrepreneurial
support such as financial assistance The Government has maintained a long-
schemes, Infocommunications Technology standing policy of providing universal access
(ICT), business counselling, and training. to quality education. Indeed, the importance
of female education was emphasised well
Brunei Darussalam reaffirms that women are before the country’s independence in 1984,
given high priority in the national agenda. In as reflected in its First National Development
line with the position of women as the heart Plan 1953-1958 which stated that “educating
of a family, and to support the country’s a boy means educating one person but
development, the Government, through the educating a girl means educating the whole
Special Committee on Family Institutions, family”6.
Women and Children5 under the National
Council on Social Issues (MKIS), has The 2018 United Nations Gender Inequality
devised a specific Plan of Action for issues Index ranked Brunei Darussalam, with a
related to women in accordance with the value of 0.234, 51st out of 162 countries. The
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap
Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Index 2020 ranked Brunei Darussalam 95th
out of 189 countries globally, whereas for the
The Plan of Action is implemented through a East Asia and Pacific region, Brunei
whole of nation approach including at the Darussalam was ranked 11th out of 20
grassroots level and with the involvement of countries. Brunei Darussalam ranked 28th in

5
Members are Prime Minister’s Office; Ministry of Finance and Economics; Ministry of Education, Ministry of Home Affairs; Ministry
of Health; Ministry of Religious Affairs; Attorney General’s Chamber, Prime Minister’s Office; Royal Brunei Police Force, Prime
Minister’s Office; Syariah Court, Ministry of Religious Affairs; Public Services Department, Prime Minister’s Office; and Women’s
Council of Brunei Darussalam
6 st
1 Brunei Darussalam National Development Plan (1953-1958), page 100

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 37
terms of economic participation and GENDER EMPOWERMENT THROUGH
opportunity, and maintained its rank of 1st ICT
place globally in terms of girls’ enrolment in ICT provides opportunities for gender
secondary as well as tertiary education. equality by enabling everyone to have
access to the same online resources and
Eligibility and selection criteria for opportunities. It enables women to gain a
educational scholarships are based on merit, stronger voice in their communities, the
not on gender. Applications on the Technical Government and at the global level. Brunei
and Vocational Education Centralised Darussalam promotes an environment that
Admission System as well as the Higher empowers and encourages girls and young
Education Centralised Admission System women to consider careers in the growing
objectively take account of prerequisite field of ICT, enabling both girls and
academic qualifications, which avoids technology companies to reap the benefits of
gender-based bias. In 2018, the number of greater female participation in the ICT sector.
female students were almost equal to the
male students at all levels of education, with The Authority for Info-Communications
the exception of Pre-University and Tertiary Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam
levels where the number of female students (AITI) has implemented several programmes
exceeded male students. Females to nurture an interest in ICT in early stages,
accounted for almost 60% of students in which can lead to the pursuit of ICT studies
tertiary education. at the secondary and post-secondary levels
and ultimately lead to greater workforce
There is no gender discrimination with participation by women.
regards to ownership of land, businesses or
other form of assets. In terms of land The private sector has also implemented
ownership, Section 23 of Brunei Land Code initiatives to encourage women’s
(Cap. 40) provisions that any person (within development. To create and champion
the parameters of rules and regulations set change for communities by technology,
by the Government from time to time) are Dynamik Technologies, a leading ICT
entitled for transfer, charge, lease and sub- company in Brunei Darussalam, has initiated
lease of land. There is also equal access to several programmes such as eBunda.
agricultural land, such as the Agricultural
Development Area and the Rural Agricultural eBunda is a portal for women that provides
Area. access to e-learning opportunities to build
awareness on issues such as health,
Brunei Darussalam has several legislations environment, business and finance. The
which serve to protect women and girls portal largely aims to target women who have
including the Penal Code (Cap. 22) and taken a break from their careers to have
Women and Girls Protection Act (Cap. 120). children in support of their continued
The Islamic Family Law Act (Cap. 217) and learning.
the Married Women Act (Cap. 190),
amended in 2010, include provisions dealing In May 2020, AITI, Women Techmakers
with ‘dharar syarie’ (domestic violence). Brunei and Google Developers Group Brunei
collaborated to host a free online seminar in
conjunction with ‘International Girls in ICT
Day’. The seminar featured women data
scientists and software developers, both

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 38
local and international, as speakers. Teens in AI – Brunei Edition
Amongst the topics covered were machine  Darussalam Enterprise (DARe)
learning and data analytics. introduced a capacity building
programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI)
In May 2020, AITI, Women Techmakers to local schools, the first in Southeast
Brunei and Google Developers Group Brunei Asia, with UK-based Acorn Aspirations
collaborated to host a free online seminar in as a global partner.
conjunction with ‘International Girls in ICT  The programme is delivered by a local
Day’. The seminar featured women data startup, in partnership with the
scientists and software developers, both Government and private companies.
local and international, as speakers.  It aims to support digital and leadership
Amongst the topics covered were machine skills in Brunei Darussalam’s youth, and
support future growth by driving
learning and data analytics. ‘Girls in ICT
innovation and productivity.
Day’, which is an International
 The programme has been endorsed by
Telecommunication Union backed initiative,
the United Nations and worked closely
aims to create a global environment that
with Microsoft Education as well as
empowers and encourages girls and young other notable tech companies.
women to consider careers in ICT.
PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN AT ALL
ICT Programmes and LEVELS
Activities for Youth in In Brunei Darussalam, three parliamentary
Brunei Darussalam seats are currently being held by women who
have been elected based on their merits and
Techkids Camp outstanding achievements and contributions
 Organised since 2012 in collaboration to the society and country. Women are also
with the Science, Technology and well represented at all levels of civil service,
Environment Partnership (STEP) especially at the managerial level and above.
Centre.
 In 2019: 23 schools, both government
and private, participated with total of 93
students, of which 44 were girls.

Hackathon for Teens

 Capacity building initiative to introduce
students to the fundamentals of coding
and computational thinking in
collaboration with Grominda, a local ICT
start-up. Image: Women account for more than 60% of the
top 2 divisions in civil service.
ASEAN Cyberkids Camp
 Initiated by Malaysia in 2008 to enhance The country has recorded progress of
students’ adaptability, creativity, critical women in positions of power and decision
thinking, problem solving, teamwork and making in various fields, which include legal,
ability to use ICT creatively. political, financial and managerial
 Hosted by Brunei Darussalam for the professions, such as Ambassador-at-Large,
first time in 2018. Ambassadors, Legislative Council members,

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 39
Deputy Ministers, Attorney General, High enjoy 105 days of paid maternity leave, an
Court Judges, Permanent Secretaries, increase of 87.5% from 56 days previously.
Solicitor Generals, and Chief Executive
Officers in the public and private sector. More women are now employed in
Women also serve in senior positions in traditionally male-dominated fields including
higher education institutions, law aviation, engineering and maritime. In
enforcement agencies and as prosecutors in November 2012, the national airline of
both Syariah and Civil courts. Brunei Darussalam, Royal Brunei Airlines
(RB), became the first national flag carrier in
Southeast Asia to appoint a female airline
captain. This was followed by the inaugural
RB flight operated by an all-female crew in
December 2013.

Since the beginning of Brunei Darussalam’s

involvement in the United Nations Interim
Force in Lebanon peacekeeping operations
in 2008, six female members of the Royal
Brunei Armed Forces have participated in
Image: Brunei Darussalam Legislative Council the operations.
Members.
Women’s active economic participation is
Based on the Labour Force Survey in 2019, ensured through equal access to
women accounted for 39.3% of the labour entrepreneurial support, as can be seen in
force, while the employment rate for women the rising number of women entrepreneurs in
aged 25 to 64 years increased from 87.1% in the country. Between 1 January 2015 to 8
2014, to 88.6% in 2018 and 89.0% in 20197. June 2020, there were 2,333 female
In the civil service, as of November 2019, directors and 10,089 female owners/partners
women accounted for approximately 55% of of companies registered under the Registry
the 50,768 civil service employees and of Company and Business Names.
accounted for more than 60% of the top two
divisions. As such, in view of their active role in Brunei
Darussalam’s business community, women
To further promote the involvement of have been elected as part of the country’s
women in the workforce, the Government representatives at regional business councils
has introduced policies, legislation and such as the ASEAN Business Advisory
regulations to promote gender equity in Council and the APEC Business Advisory
employment such as the Employment Order Council.
2009, the Workplace Safety and Health
Order 2009 and the Maternity Leave The Government has also collaborated
Regulation 2011. The Maternity Leave through different regional and international
Regulation is a measure towards the platforms to support women economic
coordination of the pre- and post-natal needs empowerment. For instance, Brunei
as well as the health interests of working Darussalam, through DARe, co-organised
mothers. With the said regulation, women the 4th ASEAN Japan Women

7
Department of Economic Planning and Statistics, Labour Force Survey

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 40
Entrepreneurs’ Linkage Programme with the In recognition of its contribution to women
ASEAN-Japan Centre in February 2020 as a empowerment, Bank Islam Brunei
way to support start-up women Darussalam’s ‘Special Underprivileged
entrepreneurs locally, as well as in ASEAN Mothers Empowerment Entrepreneurship
and Japan. programme’ (BIBD SEED) was awarded the
‘3G Women Empowerment Programme’
The event featured local women mentors Award at the 4th Global Good Governance
and participants including Tarbiyyah Global, Awards in 2019.
Brunei’s first Islamic based scientific
enrichment programme for children. Since its Women also actively participate in sports
establishment in 2015, the company and are well represented in regional and
provides a hands-on, experiential way of international events. The year 2012 marked
learning and utilising Islamic spiritual an important milestone, whereby female
attributes. athletes from Brunei Darussalam were
represented at all levels in regional and
international games, including the 2012
Olympic Games. The country takes pride in
acknowledging that female athletes are an
integral and significant part of Brunei
Darussalam’s national sporting contingents,
for regional and international events.

Image: The 4th ASEAN - Japan Women

Entrepreneurs’ Linkage Programme.

In 2018, the country also co-hosted the

APEC SME Online-to-Offline Forum in 2018,
which provided exposure and networks for
startups and investors and sharing of best
practices on digital transformation through
expert panels, including local women
entrepreneurs.

Initiatives undertaken by the private sector

and NGOs such as Brunei Darussalam
Women’s Business Council (WBC) and the
Brunei Womenpreneur Network also
complement the Government’s efforts to
encourage participation of women Image: Brunei Darussalam’s first female athlete
entrepreneurs in the economy. at the 2012 Olympic Games for 400m.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 41
 At the ASEAN level, Brunei Darussalam
participates in the ASEAN Commission on
the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of
Women and Children (ACWC). Since 2010,
the Government has appointed three ACWC
Representatives on Women. As an active
member, Brunei Darussalam led the
formulation of the ‘Gender Sensitive
Guideline for Handling Women Victims of
Trafficking in Persons’ when it hosted a
workshop in 2014. This Guideline was then
adopted at the 10th ACWC Meeting in 2015.
Image: Brunei Darussalam’s Silver and Bronze Additionally, the Government participates in
medalist at the 30th Southeast Asian Games in ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on
2019. Human Rights and ASEAN Committee on
Women. It chaired the ACW for 2019-2020.
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION IN
PROMOTING WOMEN’S RIGHTS At the international level, Brunei Darussalam
Brunei Darussalam’s ratification of the also participates in the Commonwealth and
CEDAW represents its commitment to the Non-Aligned Movement Institute for the
protecting the rights and providing equal Empowerment of Women. The Government
opportunities to women. The Government also works with the United Nations Entity for
submitted its combined initial and second Gender Equality and the Empowerment of
periodic report to the CEDAW Committee on Women under the ASEAN framework to
1 November 2013 which was considered by access technical assistance on innovative
the Committee on 29 November 2014. The programmes and strategies to foster
recommendations of the CEDAW Committee women's empowerment and gender equality.
are currently being considered into the draft Through these participations, Brunei
Plan of Action dedicated to women issues, Darussalam has benefitted from the sharing
demonstrating the country’s commitment to of knowledge, experience, capacity building
formulating and implementing focused and best practices which further strengthen
strategies and interventions on improving the the Government’s continuous efforts in the
rights of women. promotion and protection of women in the
country.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 42
Sustainable Development Goal 6
Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation
for all
Brunei Darussalam has an abundant natural WATER CONSUMPTION
supply of fresh water. The Government Despite its progress in recent years, Brunei
places great importance on an effective Darussalam has one of the highest daily
water supply system, to ensure that the water consumption rates per capita in the
population has access to clean, safe and region.
affordable drinking water that conforms to
the World Health Organization’s standards, Figure 3: Water Consumption in Brunei
while at the same time ensuring that it is Darussalam (litre/capita/day).
sustainable. The country’s target is to 430 420
sustainably use its water resources so that
the future generations are able to enjoy the 400
same benefits.
370 380
Access to clean water and 370
sanitation:
340
100% of the population has
access to clean and safe drinking 310
water since 2000.
280
93% of the population has access 290
to sanitation.
250
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2035
Wastewater treatment service is
provided at no cost to the public. Current Target

Currently 35 catchments (18

major and 17 subsidiary rivers) This necessitates the Government to
throughout the country. balance water supply and demand, such that
the consumption of water does not adversely
With increasing demands and pressures due impact its water resources.
to population growth and business needs,
the Government is concurrently addressing To address this issue, the country’s key
the challenges of wastewater, river water approach for an effective water supply
quality, as well as water security and water system and sustainable water resources
resource management to support and includes:
sustain the quality of life and economic i) Integrated planning and development
productivity. with the aims to create a data sharing
platform, knowledge sharing through
feasibility studies and masterplan as

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 43
 well as to streamline policies pertaining supply by addressing the substantial
to water resource management; discrepancy between revenue collection and
ii) Adopting alternative funding mechanism production expenditure.
to reduce dependency on government
funds and increase financial robustness It is also in the process of producing the
for effective implementation of water Brunei Darussalam Water Efficiency
projects; and Labelling Scheme, which aims to determine
iii) Water balance that include addressing the terms and conditions, requirements and
non-revenue water (NRW), reviewing guidelines for water fittings, appliances,
water tariff, strengthening water apparatuses and products to be labelled for
conservation awareness and water efficiency. This will enable consumers
enforcement. to make informed choices in purchasing
more water efficient products and
In order to enhance water security for the consequently inculcate water saving
future, the Government plans to update the practices.
forecasted water demand through a
feasibility study in the supply of The Government also acknowledges the
transboundary water from the Temburong importance of saving water through the
District, the least populated of all the four promotion of more sustainable consumption
districts, to Brunei-Muara District, the most behaviour by the general public.
heavily populated district.
ROBUST SANITATION MANAGEMENT
EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT OF WATER In Brunei Darussalam, wastewater treatment
To efficiently manage water, the Government service is provided at no cost to the public.
intends to undertake a comprehensive study The Government places a high priority to
and management of NRW, which covers ensure the robustness and continuity of
water lost in the water network through pipe sanitation facilities and services in the
leaks, tanks overflow, metering inaccuracies country.
and illegal tapping of water. Currently, NRW
accounts for 40% of the total water supply. Currently, there are 35 catchments (18 major
and 17 subsidiary rivers) throughout the
This study is expected to be able to increase country, to effectively manage and maintain
the reliability of the pipe systems, reduce sewerage infrastructure and assets. Through
water disruptions as well as improve supply ministerial projects as well as projects under
of water, through minimisation of pipe leaks the National Development Plans, 93% of the
and identification of quick repair areas. population has access to sanitation.

The Government is also in the process of The remaining 7% of the population without
implementing a new water tariff system and access to sanitation are old water village
a new Unified Smart Metering System, in settlements as well as a small proportion of
which the new rates are based on a tiered the population living in very remote areas.
structure for residential, commercial and raw The Government’s target is to increase
water. This progressive tariff system better access to sanitation from 93% to 97% by
reflects the costs of water production as well 2035.
as encourages more efficient use of water.
This will ensure sustainability of the water

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 44
Figure 4: Access to Sanitation in Brunei Achieving this will require the adoption of
Darussalam (%). sound engineering solutions that are able to
be applied to the complex arrangements of
2035 97 the old water settlements, vacuum systems
for the remaining new water village
2019 93
settlements as well as septic systems
2015 91 strategised for the sparsely populated and
remote residential areas. Further, the
2010 80 Government aims to not only provide access
to sanitation for all but also to ensure that the
2005 80
river ecosystems are healthy.
2000 70
Towards the 2030 Agenda, the Government
1995 69 will continue in maintaining 100% access to
1990 65
clean and safe drinking water as well as
improving access to sanitation, while also
intensifying efforts to ensure that these are
achieved in a sustainable manner.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 45
Sustainable Development Goal 7
Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy
for all
Ensuring the provision of reliable, efficient, Power grids in the country are operated by
affordable and safe electricity supply in the two providers, namely the Department of
country remains a priority for the Electrical Services under the Ministry of
Government. Residents in Brunei Energy and Berakas Power Company, which
Darussalam benefit from a well-developed, provides reliable power to approximately
reliable and low-priced utilities system. It has 60% and 40% of the national power demand
among the highest electrification rates in respectively.
ASEAN with 99.9% of the population
connected to the grid. Figure 6: Trend of Frequency of Power Outages
(lasting more than 1 hour).
Access to electricity:
191
Frequency of power
99.9% of the population is
126
connected to the grid. outages

Generation Capacity ▲ from 54

777.70 MW (2015) to 877 MW
(2019).

2015
2013

2014

2016

2017

2018

2019
Electricity demand expected to
grow 3-4% to 5,900 GWh
between now and 2029.
Brunei Darussalam’s electricity demand is
Brunei Darussalam’s electricity generation expected to grow by 3-4% between now and
capacity has increased in recent years, as 2029, driven by increased industrial and
seen from the figure below. economic activities, transportation needs
and population growth. In an increasingly
Figure 5: Electricity Generation Capacity in electronic and electrified age with the advent
Brunei Darussalam. of the 4th Industrial Revolution, the
950 920 International Energy Agency reported that
900
global electricity demand rose by 4% in 2018,
877
nearly twice as fast as overall energy
850
856.7 demand, and is rising at its fastest pace since
2010. Within ASEAN alone, electricity
MW

800
demand is expected to grow twice the rate of
750 768.3 777
the overall energy demand by 2040.
700
Recognising the significance of inclusive
650 development, Brunei Darussalam facilitates
2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2025

access to the social benefits of electricity, in

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 46
support of national objectives to eliminate reduce energy intensity to 45% by 2035
poverty and leave no one behind. (using 2005 as the base year) through EEC
legislative measures and initiatives; power
ENERGY EFFICIENCY efficiency improvement; and increase RE
It is important to balance this demand growth capacity to at least 30% in the total power
with sustainability, affordability and reliability generation mix. To raise general awareness
of supply in the long-term. Industries are at all levels and sectors of the community,
increasingly looking for smarter and more the Ministry of Energy (ME) continues to
sustainable ways to produce and use conduct nationwide promotion of plans and
electricity. There will be an increased programmes related to EEC and RE. In order
reliance on innovations in technology; to achieve these targets, among the
business models; and trans-border initiatives are the implementation of relevant
connectivity and integration to meet Standards and Labelling Orders as well as
electrification needs in a manner that EEC Building Guidelines for various sectors;
addresses the trilemma of affordability, appointment of Energy Managers; RE
reliability and sustainability. Sustainable and Deployment, in particular solar; and the
inclusive electrification for socio-economic deployment of Green Transportation.
development is one of the pressing energy
developments and issues. It will be a key SOLAR PV SYSTEM
opportunity as well as challenge in the future. The first solar trial carried out in Brunei
Darussalam in 2011 was Tenaga Suria
To sustainably meet this demand, Brunei Brunei with 1.2 MW capacity for power
Darussalam is conscious of the need to generation. Six different types of solar PV
further diversify its energy mix and panels were tested8. This project provided
incorporate alternative and renewable valuable information for the country on the
energy sources into the grid. It has most applicable and high performance PV
traditionally met such demand with fossil technologies suitable to the local
fuels, namely through natural gas. However, meteorological conditions.
more alternative and renewable energy
sources are coming into play to fuel this In the next three years, in boosting RE power
demand. generation capacity, the ME is looking to
build a 30 MW solar farm to be located at
Brunei Darussalam aims to strengthen Sungai Akar in the Brunei-Muara District.
national sustainable energy efforts through Subsequently, through various solar farm
the implementation of renewable and projects and rooftop solar installations,
alternative energy, as well as energy Brunei Darussalam aims to have total
efficiency initiatives, to support the country’s installed capacity of solar power generation
energy security, economic growth and of at least 300 MW by 2035. This is to
environmental sustainability. support its goal to increase RE capacity to at
least 30% in the total power generation mix.
Brunei Darussalam seeks to prioritise the
development of legislative measures in order RURAL ELECTRIFICATION
to accelerate Energy Efficiency and The ME has ensured a 99.9% electrification
Conservation (EEC), and Renewable Energy rate for the country. With an abundance of
(RE) Projects. The Government aims to land in relation to its small population of less

8
Mono-crystalline, Poly-crystalline, Tandem, Amorphous, Copper-Indium-Selenium and Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin-layer

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 47
than half a million, a small portion of Brunei REGIONAL COOPERATION ON
Darussalam’s population resides in remote RENEWABLE AND ALTERNATIVE
areas, particularly in the rural areas of the POWER GENERATION
Belait and Temburong Districts. In supporting regional efforts towards
ensuring sustainable energy, Brunei
In these areas, distance and terrain pose Darussalam and the Republic of Korea co-
challenges to connectivity to the grid. A key chair the Renewable and Alternative Power
part of ensuring complete electricity access Generation (RAPG) Work Stream under the
for the population, especially in these rural auspices of the East Asia Summit (EAS)
areas, where provision of transmission Energy Cooperation. This Work Stream was
cables is challenging, is through small-scale established as a result of a meeting between
RE projects, specifically solar power. The His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah,
small-scale roll out of solar panels in rural Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei
areas has had significant effects on the lives Darussalam and President Barack Obama of
of residents. the United States of America in March 2013
in Washington D.C. The Work Stream’s main
As a supplement to the generators in place, aims are to spur new RE collaboration and
it has allowed them to enjoy greater stability cooperation in the EAS region. Projects
in electricity supply, while being under the Work Stream will co-exist and
decentralised from the main grid. It also complement the current RE activities within
reduces emissions from generators powered ASEAN and its Dialogue Partners.
by fossil fuels. In the long term, Brunei
Darussalam aims to power these rural areas It also aims to elevate the role of RE in the
with permanent supply using cables, and region by capacity building and exchange of
therefore via integration to the main grid. In knowledge and skills. Since its
ensuring a fully integrated national grid, a establishment, the RAPG Work Stream has
project to connect the Temburong District, a focused its activities for EAS members to
district which mostly relies on diesel power strengthen RE promoting policy through
generation, to the main power system via a scaling up investments into the region. The
66kV line is also underway, with a target Work Stream has also carried out
completion date within the next five years. Renewable Technology Demonstration and
Renewable Energy Resource Mapping for
BILATERAL POWER INTERCONNECTION the region.
Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia are
currently looking into undertaking electricity Brunei Darussalam continues to actively
trade through a bilateral power implement EEC measures in its effort to
interconnection project. The completion of diversify energy sources for sustainable
this interconnection line will integrate development, as well as introducing the RE
Sarawak, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam policy to encourage investment in renewable
to the ASEAN Power Grid’s Eastern System. energy systems. Innovation, technology and
This power exchange would be a collaboration will be key to meet current and
commitment to support the use of RE future electricity demands. Brunei
including hydropower sources, in the region Darussalam supports global and regional
for further energy security and to mitigate calls for collaboration and welcome
climate change effects. opportunities to explore joint research and
innovation towards a more sustainable
energy future.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 48
Sustainable Development Goal 8
Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and
productive employment and decent work for all
Echoing the SDGs principle of leaving no employability of local university and technical
one behind and the call for collaboration education graduates. The MPEC will
amongst the global community, Brunei continue to work together with companies to
Darussalam’s economic policies are aimed learn more about projected human resources
at ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth needs.
that creates employment and improves living
standards for all. The Government is actively implementing
initiatives and programmes to reduce the
HUMAN CAPITAL unemployment rate, particularly for the
Brunei Darussalam recognises that people youth. One such initiative is the I-Ready
are one of the country’s greatest assets. Apprenticeship Programme, which is a three-
Therefore, it remains committed to invest in year programme to help equip unemployed
them for the country’s future by maintaining graduates with skills for the industry as well
inclusive policies on access to quality as to elevate their employability and
education, healthcare and financial inclusion, marketability. Previously only available for
and enhancing labour productivity. those with Bachelor Degrees or higher, the
programme has recently been extended to
Based on the 2019 Labour Force Survey, in include Diploma Level 5 (HND or Advanced
line with an increase in the working age Diploma) and Technical and Vocational
population by approximately 32,000 persons Education Training (TVET).
(defined as aged 15 years and over), there
was also an increase of more than 19,000 in Another effort is driving the growth of Micro,
the number employed. Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs),
which has been the backbone of Brunei
Brunei Darussalam recorded a decline in the Darussalam’s economy. MSMEs play an
unemployment rate from 9.3% in 2017 to important role not just for economic
6.8% in 2019. The unemployment rate for development but also in job creation, thus
youth (defined as those aged 15 to 24 years) providing income and reducing
also continued to decrease from 48.5% in unemployment.
2014, to 44.2% in 2017 and 39.8% in 2019.
ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION
On 1 January 2020, the Manpower Planning The Oil and Gas Sector remains as the main
and Employment Council (MPEC) was contributor to Brunei Darussalam’s Gross
established under the Prime Minister's Office Domestic Product (GDP). Nonetheless,
(PMO), replacing the previous Manpower between 2010 and 2019, the country has
Planning Council, to manage unemployment seen increasing contribution of the Non-Oil
issues in an efficient, effective and and Gas Sector to the economy.
transparent manner. The MPEC will foster
cooperation with education institutions and
domestic industries, as well as ensure

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 49
Figure 7: Oil and Gas & Non-Oil and Gas Sector As a result of these efforts, as of 2018, the
contribution to GDP (2010-2019). value of FDI which is currently operating in
the country is B$4.7 billion, whereas the
63.7 62.7 value of the FDI currently being implemented
55.7 is B$1.5 billion. FDI itself has generated
more than 1,000 jobs for the local workforce
Percent

36.3
and has also contributed towards increasing
44.3
37.3 the country’s exports.

The 11th National Development Plan (NDP)

(2018 – 2023) is geared towards supporting
2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019
the Government’s efforts to diversify by
strengthening the private sector. With the
Oil and Gas Sector Non Oil and Gas Sector theme ‘Increase Non-Oil and Gas Sector
Output as Catalyst for Economic Growth’,
projects under the 11th NDP are focused on
For long term economic sustainability, Brunei
spurring growth in the private sector,
Darussalam continues to intensify its
including the provision of infrastructure and
economic diversification efforts in five main
utilities and ensuring that the workforce
priority sectors, namely (i) Downstream Oil
needs of future industries are met.
and Gas; (ii) Food; (iii) Tourism; (iv) Services;
and (v) Infocommunications Technology
Brunei Darussalam also actively promotes
(ICT).
tourism as one of its priority sectors, which
includes sustainable or eco-tourism. Efforts
so far have been implemented based on the
Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism
(MPRT)’s Strategic Plan (2016-2020).

The tourism industry has shown a gradual

increase in the number of visitors between
2014 and 2018 especially those travelling by
air. In 2018, the number of tourist arrivals by
Increasing activities in these sectors are
air increased by 7.4% with a total of 278,136
expected to boost the growth of industries
visitors compared to 258,955 visitors
and spin-offs, create employment, increase
recorded in 2017.
exports and accelerate the country’s
economic growth.
To date, the Tourism Development
Department has launched promotional
To do so, the Government actively promotes
packages highlighting places of interests and
attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
distinctive niche activities that are offered in
into Brunei Darussalam to stimulate private
a sustainable manner in Brunei Darussalam.
sector activities and to encourage local
entrepreneurs, especially MSMEs, to reap
the benefits of FDI by participating in the
spin-off activities.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 50
 MPRT Strategic Plan (2016-2020) Brunei Darussalam embraces a whole of
The MPRT envisions a nation approach to drive the
sustainable growth and entrepreneurship agenda in the country. In
increase in the number of 2016, Darussalam Enterprise (DARe) was
tourists and tourism activities set up with the primary goal of supporting the
through: growth of MSMEs in Brunei Darussalam.

 Strengthening and ensuring the Figure 8: Number of MSMEs in Brunei

Darussalam.
sustainability of existing tourism
products. 5,876
 Producing more quality tourism 5,721
offerings with focus on:
5,427
o Primary tourism products.
5,248
o Emerging products with potential,
such as beaches and recreational
parks.
o Activity based products such as
bird watching, diving, and sports. 2010 2015 2016 2017
o Adventure tourism.
o Culture and community-based
Entrepreneurship initiatives implemented by
tourism. DARe include ‘Industry Business Academy’,
‘Accelerate Bootcamp Programme’, ‘Micro
Bootcamp Programme’ and ‘Brunei Mentors
for Entrepreneurs Network’. These
programmes target all groups of
entrepreneurs including start-ups and those
who are expanding their businesses beyond
Brunei Darussalam. DARe also organises a
MSMEs fair annually to give local
entrepreneurs a platform to promote their
locally made products.

To complement these efforts, other

ministries have also introduced initiatives
that provide assistance and support for
Image: Belalong Canopy Walkway, Temburong
District. Bruneians who are keen to become
entrepreneurs. For example, in the area of
MSMES DEVELOPMENT agriculture and tourism, the MPRT is giving
As of 2017, MSMEs accounted for 57.3% of opportunities for local companies to
participate and invest in the primary sector’s
employment in the country. The number of
MSMEs also increased from 5,427 in 2010 to economic activities. To date, a total of 5,635
active entrepreneurs have engaged in
5,876 in 2017.
agriculture and agrifood sectors, of which
78% (4,407 entrepreneurs) were involved in
the crop industry. A total of 2,093

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 51
entrepreneurs have engaged in the fisheries ‘Enforcing Contracts’ and ‘Resolving
sector and a total of 3,219 jobs were created Insolvency’.
in the tourism sector. Altogether,
employment for 7,981 locals have been Brunei Darussalam also recognises the
created. importance of fostering healthy competition
in the domestic market to contribute in
The Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) set enhancing efficiency and consumer welfare.
up the Entrepreneurship Village, in support As such, with the implementation of the
of the Ministry of Education’s National Competition Order 2015 and the
Entrepreneurship Agenda, which aims to establishment of the Competition
create and support high growth in Commission of Brunei Darussalam, the
entrepreneurship, drive job creation and country is expected to reinforce a pro-
economic growth in the country, in line with business and pro-investment climate, in line
Wawasan Brunei 2035. Since the with the Government's long term goal to
introduction of this Entrepreneurship Village achieve a dynamic and sustainable
in 2014 at the university campus, about 16% economy.
of graduates from UBD have successfully
become entrepreneurs, with 300 start-ups The country’s network of free trade
founded by UBD graduates. agreements as well as regional and
international trade initiatives that it is a part
Complementing the Village is the UBD of have opened up opportunities for local
Startup Centre (USC) which provides a businesses to explore and become an
space for UDB alumni and graduating integral part of the global value chains.
students to explore entrepreneurial ideas.
This centre provides a platform and the Related to this, trade facilitation remains an
ecosystem for startup growth within the area of focus to spur more economic
university that includes facilities, co-working activities in the country. This is achieved,
space, mentoring and network support. among others, through simplified and
streamlined customs processes, including
CONDUCIVE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT through the online Brunei Darussalam
The Government reaffirms its commitment in National Single Window and information
maintaining a conducive business eco- readily available through the Brunei
system to promote private sector Darussalam National Trade Repository.
development, vis-à-vis FDI and MSMEs.
To further promote industrial development,
Such efforts have been successful thus far, the Government has also established
as reflected in the high scores received in industrial sites, some of which cater to
several indicators under the World Bank specific industries such as Pulau Muara
Doing Business, with laudable improvements Besar for oil and gas downstream industries;
in streamlining process for starting a and Digital Junction for ICT and high-tech
business, paying taxes, and getting industries. All of these sites are in close
electricity. For the 2020 edition, Brunei proximity to the main sea port and the
Darussalam was ranked 1st, with New international airport.
Zealand, for ease of ‘Getting Credit’; 16th for
‘The Easiest to start a Business’ in the
region; and 66th worldwide for efforts in

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FINANCIAL ACCESS AND LITERACY SUPPORTING INFRASTRUCTURE
Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) The Government recognises the important
has collaborated with relevant agencies and role of supporting infrastructure for economic
financial institutions in facilitating access to development particularly in tele-
financial products and services available in communications and transportation.
the country. In terms of access to banking
and financial services for all, there were 14.3 The Maritime and Port Authority Brunei
bank branches and 64.4 ATMs per 100,000 Darussalam was established in 2017 with a
adults in 2018. vision to form a ‘Conducive and Dynamic
Maritime and Port Environment’ which will
In 2018, the Government established the help to fulfil the needs of import and export
Bank Usahawan with the objective of activities.
providing accessible financing for MSMEs in
Brunei Darussalam. With flexibility offered in Additionally, the Muara Port Company was
terms of bank collaterals, the Bank is able to formed in 2017 through a joint venture to
take into consideration the unique character operate the Muara Port Container and
of each entrepreneur and provide a Conventional Terminals. The company is
landscape of solutions that serve their best expected to further improve the efficiency
interests. Other private banks have also and throughput of Muara Port.
implemented financing programmes
specifically for MSMEs, such as SME360 by A robust infrastructure is crucial in order for
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) and the digital economy to flourish. Brunei
SME Financing Scheme by Baiduri Bank. Darussalam has restructured its ICT sector
with the consolidation of its
Along with ensuring access to financing, telecommunications infrastructure under one
AMBD has also undertaken efforts to company, namely Unified National Networks
encourage financial literacy and inclusion Pte Ltd.
through courses, talks, roadshows and
events to various target audiences and age The infrastructural improvement is
groups. anticipated to widen the platform for
innovation and competition at the retail level.
Further, several notices and guidelines, as On 24 January 2020, three service providers
part of AMBD’s regulatory measures, were have relaunched themselves, providing
issued to improve the market conduct of the users with more choices of innovative
financial service providers and enhance the services at competitive prices. Through such
financial consumer protection framework in efforts, residents of the country can expect
the country. substantial improvements in the availability
and quality of telecommunication services at
Brunei Darussalam has also established a more affordable prices. This would result in
National Financial Literacy Council, which wider access to mobile networks and internet
aims to ensure that all citizens are able to connectivity for everyone in the entire
achieve their highest financial well-being, country, especially for those living in the rural
given their resources and commitments, areas, as well as to reduce the cost of doing
through access to well-suited financial business for local entrepreneurs.
products, independent information and
advice.

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Brunei Darussalam is also well on its way to trafficking cases, as and when they arise.
prepare for and embrace the potentials of the The DoL continues to enforce the minimum
digital economy. This includes the formation terms and conditions of employment as
of the Digital Economy Council to provide provided in the Employment Order 2009,
national steer and direction on digital which applies to all workers in the private
economy initiatives for Brunei Darussalam. sector and provides for the payment of
wages, rest days, medical leave, maternity
DECENT WORK leave and other such rights that are in line
In ensuring decent work for all, Brunei with national conditions and practices.
Darussalam has ratified two fundamental
conventions under the International Labour The Safety, Health and Environment
Organization, namely on minimum age and National Authority (SHENA), which is a
the worst forms of child labour (The Minimum statutory body, was established in 2017 to
Age Convention (No. 138) and The Worst regulate and enforce all matters pertaining to
Forms of Child Labour Convention (No. workplace safety and health, environment
182)). Accordingly, the rights of children and radiation in the country. Its mission is to
continue to be legally enforced through ensure Brunei Darussalam remains as a safe
various relevant legislations. Section 103 of place to work and live.
the Employment Order 2009 was amended
in 2015 to prohibit the employment of SHENA has actively engaged stakeholders
children in any industrial undertaking9. in the general industry and non-industry
sectors as well as the public through open
Brunei Darussalam is also taking concrete Health, Safety and Environment forums. In
steps towards ratifying an additional 2019, two fatalities were recorded – a
fundamental convention, namely on forced decrease from eight in 2018 and the lowest
labour. since 2016. There were zero major accidents
recorded and 92% safety case certificates
The Department of Labour (DoL) works were issued out of 65 safety case reviewed.
closely with other ministries and enforcement
agencies on any suspected labour and

9
“In an industrial undertaking or in an undertaking which is an industrial undertaking”

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A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD)

The NCCIBD is comprised of the Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the
Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Brunei Darussalam. Established in April 1985, mooted by
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to represent Brunei Darussalam’s business community in the
local and international arena, the Association connects international businesses with local
businesses and also serves to guide and assist enterprises in the country. The NCCIBD’s
members are MSMEs which are mainly based in the manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade
as well as the agriculture, tourism, food and beverage, and services sectors. Among the
services offered by the NCCIBD include:
i) business matching services among members domestically and internationally;
ii) training programs (upon request with a small fee);
iii) integrity check of businesses both locally and internationally;
iv) engaging with the Government’s policy makers on issues/matters related to the
business community; and
v) advisory and networking services both nationally and internationally.

As a focal point for international businesses to collaborate with and disseminate business
opportunities to members, the Association also signs Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs)
with other international Chambers of Commerce and Industries worldwide. The NCCIBD also
monitors enterprises for 6 months to find viable business models and targets fresh university
graduates.

The Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, founded in 1964, aims to support the
interests of as well as provide leadership, guidance and development support to businesses.
The Association is working closely with the Government in promoting trade and economic
development, localisation, and is planning to launch an incubation program for the younger
generation in 2020/2021, which will:
 offer business planning support;
 advisory services;
 organise workshops (3-month and 6-month training programs);
 offer office workspace for 2–3 groups of enterprises;
 connect young people to financial institutions; and
 provide mentoring services.

In addition to general business services, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Brunei

Darussalam, a non-profit Chinese business association established in 1946, also provides
business and industry information exchange opportunities and promotes communication
between the international business community. This Association is committed to cooperate on
the promotion of national economic and trade development, such as in the tourism industry.
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce offers its Young Entrepreneur Council memberships to
youth who are interested to engage in entrepreneurship, through which they are given
opportunities and a platform to network with experienced members, as well as learn
entrepreneurship skills.

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WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH TO SUPPORT BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS
AFFECTED BY COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has had adverse effects on businesses and individuals in Brunei
Darussalam. To mitigate these impacts, and to enable swift economic recovery, the
Government has taken several interim measures:
To assist the private sector, particularly MSMEs, and ensure their operational
viability:
 A six-month deferment on employers’ contributions to Employees Trust
Fund (TAP) and Supplemental Contributory Pensions (SCP) for private
sector employees earning B$1,500 per month and below in all sectors under
the MSMEs category. Contributions by companies will be paid in advance by
the Government to ensure that the annual dividend payments to employees in
the private sector will not be affected.
 The Government will finance the SCP contributions for those registered as
self-employed within the stated period, to ensure that they will have ongoing
Survivorship Fund protection.
 Provision of:
o 30% discount for six months on rental rates of government buildings
for MSMEs in the targeted sectors such as tourism, hospitality (including
hotels and lodging houses), restaurants and cafes, as well as air
passenger and water passenger transportation.
o 15% discount for six months on electricity and water bills for
businesses in the targeted sectors.
o 50% tax discount for six months on corporate income tax for the year
of assessment 2020 for the targeted sectors.
o 25% salary subsidy to local employees of MSMEs for a period of
three months, for local employees who are receiving a monthly salary of
B$1,500 and below, and who contribute to the TAP.
 Temporary exemption of custom and excise duties on Personal Hygiene
products, to assist businesses and consumers with the increasing demand
related to health products.
 Removal of rental charges for wet and dry markets that are provided by the
Ministry of Home Affairs for a period of six months.
 Help for MSMEs through participation on e-platforms for more effective
business matching to help merchants market their goods online through the
platform www.ekadaibrunei.bn. This measure is intended to assist and provide
opportunities and incentives for traders to use e-platforms to operate and
maintain their business more efficiently and competitively.
 ‘Community for Brunei’ – a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative by
BIBD, a virtual marketplace designed to help small businesses, whilst
highlighting different social and charitable causes important to the heart of
Brunei Darussalam.
 ‘Buy Local Produce Campaign’ – following the temporary closure of a
number of markets in the Tutong and Belait Districts as part of measures to

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 curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country, this initiative is to ensure the
income of local market vendors and farmers continue to be secure and
unaffected by the temporary closure. It will also help to ensure price stability
for agricultural produce and encourage planting of agricultural produce in a
continuous manner.
 DARe will also increase the grant amount to further expand the Co-Matching
Grants initiative, which will assist businesses to improve and better prepare
for current and future situations.
 To ensure that there are no disruptions to the supply and goods required,
Brunei Darussalam is cooperating with Sarawak, Malaysia to allow companies
to enter the country through land checkpoints for the purpose of trade or
delivery of products. This also applies to companies from Sarawak, Malaysia
that have to cross Brunei Darussalam’s borders.

To ensure job security for locals and protect welfare of local employees in the
private sector:
 A six-month extension of current contracts under the I-Ready
Apprenticeship Programme by the MPEC in the public and private sectors.
 Extension of the I-Ready Apprenticeship Programme to Diploma Level 5
(HND or Advanced Diploma) and TVET. During the course of the programme,
the Government will finance the apprentices’ allowances for a period of 18
months at the prescribed rate of B$800 per month for Bachelor’s degree and
higher (the same amount paid currently), B$600 per month for Diploma (Level
5) and B$400 per month for TVET. In addition, the Government will also
contribute for TAP and SCP on behalf of the companies.

To ensure continuous job creation:

 In support of life-long learning initiatives, especially in the upskilling and
reskilling of the local workforce in supporting private sector growth, MPEC
has provided training opportunities, such as online and hands-on training,
to build capacity for current and future needs. MPEC will also provide
training for local tour guides registered with the MPRT, and also for those
interested in the food and beverages sector.
 MPEC will cooperate with IT companies to provide programmes in the
areas of programming, data analytics and others that will assist in efforts
towards the 4th Industrial Revolution.
 Additionally, DARe has provided fully sponsored online Industry
Business Academy trainings through Coursera for business-related
courses.
 Upgrade of Job Centre Brunei (JCB) Portal to improve the effectiveness
of advertised job vacancies.

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Monetary interim measures to assist all the business sectors including individuals
working with the private sector and self-employed:
 Deferment on principal payments of financing/loans to all sectors.
 Restructuring of up to ten years on personal loans/financing and hire
purchase facilities limited to motor vehicle loans/financing.
 The deferment of individual principal loan repayment on personal
loans/financing, property loans/financing (for home ownership and property
investment) and hire purchase facilities limited to motor vehicle loans/
financing;
 Converting of any outstanding credit cards balances into a term loan of not exceeding
three years to assist all business sectors and individuals including those who are self-
employed.
 Waiver of related fees and charges including processing fees on deferment,
restructuring or conversion of credit card facilities excluding third party fees and
charges.

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Sustainable Development Goal 9
Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable
industrialization and foster innovation
Goal 9 encompasses three main aspects of villages connected. The Department of
sustainable development: infrastructure, Roads is responsible to plan, design,
industrialisation, and innovation. construct and maintain the road
Infrastructure provides the basic physical infrastructure network, bridges and related
systems and structures essential to the services to ensure safe and efficient
operation of a society or an enterprise. movement of people and goods.
Industrialisation drives economic growth,
creates job opportunities, and thereby Construction for the Brunei Muara -
reduces poverty. Innovation, particularly Temburong Bridge began in 2014. It is
sustainability-driven innovation, advances Southeast Asia’s longest oversea bridge with
the technological capabilities of industrial a length of 26.3 kilometres and acts as a
sectors and at the same time supports the direct link to Temburong District, which is
environmental aspect of the 2030 Agenda. geographically separated from the rest of the
country. Upon its opening on 19 March 2020,
The Government provides the public a previously lengthy journey that required a
infrastructure and utilities required for the boat or passing by car through Malaysia
community to function. These include became a short direct drive.
affordable housing, health systems, schools,
road connectivity and bridges, drainage
systems, protection of coastal areas, parks
and recreations as well as public utilities
such as water supply, electricity and
sanitation.

These are essential to stimulate socio-

economic activities in the country. Within the
Ministry of Development (MOD), the
Department of Town and Country Planning is
Image: The Brunei Muara - Temburong Bridge.
responsible for the planning of the physical
infrastructure development through the
This bridge is expected to contribute greatly
establishment of the National Land Use
towards the socio-economic development of
Master Plan.
the country and to the overall well-being of
the residents of the Temburong District.
ENHANCING CONNECTIVITY
Through its National Development Plans
The modernisation project of Brunei
(NDPs), Brunei Darussalam has made
International Airport (BIA) was completed in
progress on the quality and connectivity of its
2015. Other projects are also being carried
infrastructure. 97.6% of the country is
out to upgrade BIA such as Airfield
connected by roads with 198 out of 203 rural

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Pavement Rehabilitation Works to cater for internet10. Fixed Broadband Penetration for
bigger and wide body aircrafts. households and businesses in the country
increased significantly from 20.1% in 2012 to
Currently, BIA serves six airlines flying to 30 51.6% in 2019. Meanwhile, Mobile
cities on scheduled flights in 16 countries, Broadband Penetration per 100 inhabitants
with an average of 58 aircraft movements per grew from 94.7% in 2012 to 131.0% in 2019.
day. According to 2019 air traffic records, a Currently, 90% of businesses have access to
total of 2.15 million passengers and 24,876 the internet while most have implemented
tonnes of cargo moved through BIA from a ICT systems and continually improve them to
total of 17,947 commercial aircraft stay competitive in their respective
movements. The current capacity of the industries11.
existing airport passenger terminal is 3
million passengers and 50,000 tonnes of The importance of ICT was underlined during
cargo. Meanwhile, the declared capacity of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw an
air navigation services/runway is 30 increased usage of online services, notably
movements per hour. in the education and business sectors. All
learning institutions were able to incorporate
In 2019, air freight (cargo) traffic and online learning whereas most of the public
commercial aircraft movements grew by and private organisations offered their
1.78% and 23.5% respectively in comparison services online.
to 2018. Passenger traffic also increased by
15.3% compared to the previous year. In Brunei Darussalam, the Authority for Info-
communications Technology Industry (AITI)
Between 2010 and 2018, arrival of visitors by is responsible for providing a conducive
air has grown by 3.3% annually (Compound environment that will promote an innovative
Annual Growth Rate). In 2017, 33.8% of the and vibrant ICT industry. AITI also ensures
total number of arrivals were tourists. This that telecommunications services are
proportion increased by 0.5% in 2018, where accessible to all and are supplied as
278,136 passengers from 810,985 of the efficiently and economically practicable, at
arrivals were tourists (34.3%). performance standards that meet the social,
industrial and commercial needs of the
STRENGTHENING DIGITAL country.
INFRASTRUCTURE
The Government emphasises the In 2019, the Digital Economy Council was
importance of ICT as one of the enablers for established to provide national steer and
socio-economic development, that will enrich direction on digital economy initiatives to
the quality of life and propel the country elevate Brunei Darussalam to the status of a
forward. smart nation. Coordination involving
ministries, private sector and non-
Since 2012, based on the number of mobile governmental organisations was undertaken
subscribers, mobile penetration in Brunei to review the purpose of the ICT policy for the
Darussalam has consistently exceeded country in the areas of E-government, ICT
100%. In 2019, 95% of households used the and telecommunications industries.

10
Brunei Darussalam ICT Household Report 2019
11
Brunei Darussalam ICT Business Report 2019

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In April 2020, the Ministry of Transport and
Infocommunications (MTIC) launched its
new five-year strategic plan, MTIC 2025, with
its vision ‘Connected Smart Nation’ towards
ensuring its direction for sustainable national
development in the fields of transportation
and infocommunications. In furthering its
digital agenda, a 5G Taskforce was
established to increase the country’s
readiness in the implementation of 5G
technology.
Image: Food Technology Lab, Universiti
The Government’s recent modernisation of Teknologi Brunei.
its telecommunication infrastructure is also
intended to ensure the provision of Private sector collaboration in research has
competitive and efficient telecommunications also intensified. Universiti Teknologi Brunei
and internet services. (UTB) and Gropoint Pte Ltd have signed an
MoU to enhance the research and
Brunei Darussalam aspires to improve its development of premium muskmelon in
position in international rankings, including Brunei Darussalam. Under the MoU, training
being top three within ASEAN in the Global programmes for university students and staff
Cybersecurity Index, top 40 in the will be provided. For example, two UTB
International Telecommunications Union ICT postgraduate students under the Food
Development Index and top 40 in the UN E- Science and Technology programme of the
Government Survey. School of Applied Sciences and
Mathematics have initiated research
ENCOURAGING INNOVATION AND activities in collaboration with Gropoint Pte
INDUSTRIALISATION Ltd and the MPRT. These activities include
Innovation advances the technological studying and gathering data on
capabilities of industrial sectors and prompts morphological and physiological
the development of new skills. The characteristics of locally grown Japanese
establishment of the Brunei Research muskmelon and conducting scientific
Council aimed to further promote sustainable research on packaging technology for
development and investment in scientific exports of this premium fruit.
research and innovation.
Future collaborative plans between the two
The Ministry of Primary Resources and partners will also include research and
Tourism (MPRT) has earlier this year development in the areas of marketing, post-
developed a facility for a Genetic harvest studies, disease and pest
Development and Selective Fish Breeding management, and food product
Programme, which is expected to increase development. These efforts are part of the
aquaculture industry productivity. Centre for Research on Agri-Food Science
and Technology’s strategic plans to translate
research outcomes into products and

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process in on-going efforts to link academia To further develop its industry by
with the industries. encouraging creativity and innovation,
Brunei Darussalam continues to promote
The Government and education institutions and develop an ‘Intellectual Property (IP)
also celebrate creativity and innovation, Culture’, which is backed by various IP
which in turn inculcate innovation mindsets in legislations and rules. The Brunei Intellectual
the country. Inaugurated in 2005, UTB holds Property Office (BruIPO) was established on
the ‘Creative, Innovative Product and 1 June 2013, with a mission to increase an
Technological Advancement (CIPTA) effective IP awareness, promote IP
Competition’ which covers all areas of management and commercialisation, deliver
Science, Technology and Engineering, and an efficient IT infrastructure and to improve
is opened to all schools, technical and IP services.
tertiary academic institutions, government
and private organisations and the general BruIPO is also responsible for the
public. administration of laws and policies related to
Intellectual Property such as Trademarks Act
In 2019, the Government introduced the (Cap 98), Patent Order 2011, Industrial
‘Innovation Premier Award’ with the aim of Designs Order 1999, Copyright Order 1999,
promoting and encouraging innovation in Layout Designs Order 1999, and Plant
good governance while further enhancing Varieties Order 2015.
the quality of service delivery in the civil
service. An example of a project that was Brunei Darussalam is a party to several
awarded was an initiative by the Royal international IP agreements such as the
Customs and Excise Department to digitise Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of
vehicle passes in order to ease cross-border Intellectual Property, the Berne Convention
movement of vehicles. for the Protection of Literary and Artistic
Works, the Patent Cooperation Treaty, the
As a joint initiative by the MTIC, AITI and Hague Agreement Concerning the
Infocom Federation Brunei, the ‘Brunei ICT International Deposit of Industrial Designs,
Awards’ (BICTA) is held to spur innovation the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO)
among the local ICT players. With the Copyright Treaty, the WIPO Performances
categories of School, Tertiary and ICT and Phonograms Treaty, and the Protocol
Industry, BICTA is a platform to stimulate Relating to the Madrid Agreement
innovation and creativity amongst students, Concerning the International Registration of
ICT companies and individuals. BICTA also Marks.
serves as a benchmark for local ICT
development, as winners will represent BruIPO continues to work closely with
Brunei Darussalam at the ‘Asia Pacific ICT regional and international organisations such
Alliance Awards’ (APICTA Awards), a as ASEAN, the WIPO, European Union
competition amongst 16 member economies Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO),
of APICTA from the Asia-Pacific region. European Patent Office, Japan Patent
Brunei Darussalam’s participation in APICTA Office, Korean Intellectual Property Office,
since 2008 has resulted in two winner and other ASEAN IP Offices in order to
awards and 27 merit awards to date. strengthen the country’s IPR
implementation. BruIPO continues to

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undertake awareness programmes by Technology Park, a 16-hectare site, and the
collaborating with external partners such as Digital Junction, a 15-hectare site with two
the ARISE+ IPR Seminar on Geographical overlapping independent power grids.
Indications in collaboration with the EUIPO
and a two-day ‘Train the Trainee’ IP To take advantage of its increasing
Workshop in 2019 in Bandar Seri Begawan, connectivity, trade linkages and placement in
Brunei Darussalam in collaboration with the the region, Brunei Darussalam continues to
United States Patent and Trademark Office. attract FDI in its five priority sectors, including
ICT and Services. The expected transfer of
Through Darussalam Enterprise, 25 readily technology and knowledge from these FDI,
prepared industrial sites with good access to coupled with the growing number of
roads, with utilities provided at competitive innovative, young local entrepreneurs, is
rates. Two parks are being set aside for the expected to further drive innovation and
development of the technology and creative growth in the country.
industry, namely the Anggerek Desa

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Sustainable Development Goal 10
Reduce inequality within and among countries
QUALITY OF LIFE
Brunei Darussalam remains committed to Priority is placed on encouraging
ensure high quality of life by providing quality entrepreneurship and increasing skill sets.
education, accessible and affordable For instance, the Ministry of Culture, Youth
healthcare, housing and public utilities and and Sports (MCYS) makes available
services, as well as strengthening the programmes and opportunities for PWDs,
protection of the rights of family institutions, women and youth, that will enable them to
women, children, youth, elderly and Persons find employment or become entrepreneurs.
with Different Abilities (PWDs). Similar initiatives are also conducted by the
Brunei Darussalam Islamic Religious
To improve the socio-economic standing of Council, in addition to their disbursement of
its citizens, Brunei Darussalam implements zakat.
national policies and plans of action that
empower the low income earners as well as Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education (MOE)
promote the economic inclusion of all strata carries out several programmes to support
of its people. disadvantaged students. Through the
Miftahun Najaah Scheme (since 2011), the
The Government provides quality and Riayah Wa Mahabbah Programme (since
comprehensive healthcare and services for 2014) and the Harapan Programme (since
its citizens for a nominal fee. The National 2018), the MOE has provided basic school
Housing Programme aims to ensure citizens materials for these students in Year 1 to Year
are able to own homes, whereby as of 2019, 13, such as school stationaries, workbooks,
the home ownership rate is 66.0%. To uniforms, night classes, school fees
achieve the target of 85% home ownership exemptions, breakfast, hostel
by 2035, the Ministry of Development (MOD) accommodation and transportation.
is working to ensure the long term financial Education subsidies provided for tertiary and
viability of the National Housing Programme. technical education act as additional support
for students from disadvantaged
SUPPORTING THOSE IN NEED backgrounds.
Welfare assistance programmes by
government and non-governmental RETIREMENT ADEQUACY
agencies provide benefits and assistance, The Government introduced the Employees
both financial and non-financial, for those in Trust Fund (TAP) in 1993 and the
need, including families, the elderly and Supplemental Contributory Pensions (SCP)
PWDs. in 2009 to provide for financial security in
retirement and to accommodate the
The Government seeks to empower those in retirement needs of citizens and permanent
need by providing them with skills and residents of Brunei Darussalam, through
knowledge that will enable these individuals mandatory savings.
to be economically independent, while also
removing any potential structural barriers.

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Under the TAP and SCP, employees’ The MKOKU is an umbrella organisation for
contributions of 5% and 3.5% respectively nine non-governmental organisations
are matched by employers. The Government (NGOs) representing differently-abled
also matches the voluntary contributions for people, namely the Centre for Children with
those who are self-employed12. With the Special Needs; the Paraplegic and
SCP, members will receive a monthly Physically Disabled Association; Pusat
payment upon attaining the age of 60 for a Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam; the
period of 20 years. In addition, Old Age Brunei Down Syndrome Association; the
Pensions are provided to citizens and Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam; the
residents upon reaching 60 years of age. Society for Management of Autism Related
issues in Training, Education and
ENSURING INCLUSIVITY OF PWDs Resources; Learning Ladders; the Brunei
Brunei Darussalam remains committed to Darussalam National Association of the Blind
ensuring that PWDs are afforded equal rights (BDNAB); and the National Association of
and opportunities, able to live their lives, be the Hearing Impaired.
recognised and able to participate fully in
society. Following its ratification of the To promote greater awareness and public
Convention on the Rights of Persons with empathy on the challenges faced by PWDs,
Disabilities (CRPD) on 11 April 2016, including those with visual and hearing
proposals are in the pipeline to integrate impairment, more effort is made to organise
components of the CRPD into the Wawasan braille and sign language courses. In 2019,
Brunei 2035. nine workshops on ‘Braille, Orientation and
Mobility’ were conducted and attended by
A whole of nation approach is practiced in 450 participants including PWDs, their
ensuring the involvement and progress of the parents, government agencies, non-
PWDs in the country. The National Council governmental bodies, the private sector and
on Social Issues (MKIS) is implementing the also individuals. The workshops were jointly
Plan of Action under the Special Committee organised by the BDNAB; Community
on the Elderly and PWDs13, which outlines Rehabilitation Unit under the Department of
several strategies on the development, well- Community Development, MCYS; Special
being, welfare and support system for Education Unit (SEU), MOE; Religious
PWDs. Special Education Unit, Islamic Studies
Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs;
The Government will continue to work and Ophthalmology Department, Ministry of
closely with other non-governmental bodies Health.
and strategic partners, such as the Council
for the Welfare of PWDs (MKOKU), to To ensure that all new buildings provide
advocate and empower the differently-abled facilities and access for PWDs, the MOD has
in Brunei Darussalam. issued the Different Abilities Design
Guidelines under the Building Control Order
in 2018.

12
Those not formally employed by a company nor has any employees.
13
Members are Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Finance and Economy, Ministry of Health,
Ministry of Education, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Transport and Info-Communication, Ministry
of Development, Council for the Welfare of Persons with Different Abilities, Council on Social Welfare, and Women’s Council of
Brunei Darussalam.

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Inclusivity of the PWDs - Economy term skills training courses. This programme
Following a rise in public awareness of aimed to provide equal opportunities as well
PWDs over the years, there is a as develop marketable and employable skills
corresponding increase in recognition of their to PWDs such as in tailoring, baking, pastry-
ability to participate in the community and making, and beauty courses with assistance
contribute to the economic development of and guidance from professional instructors in
the country. Brunei Darussalam also those respective areas.
recognises the rights of PWDs to work and to
gain a living by participating in the labour
market and an open work environment.

Through the multi agency approach in

empowering PWDs, the Government
provides opportunities for them to achieve
their full potential and learn various
independent living, social and work skills.
Presently, while there is no employment
quota in the country for PWDs, more public
and private employers are employing PWDs,
where such encouraging examples can be
observed in several government
departments and private institutions. Based
on a survey by the MCYS in 2019, a total of
75 PWDs were employed in the government
sector, whilst 25 were employed in the
private sector.

Pusat Bahagia, under the Department of

Community Development, MCYS is a skill
training (job coaching) centre for PWDs,
focusing on living, social, work and basic
vocational skills. Each of the 4 districts in Images: PWDs in different classes at Pusat
Bahagia (top and bottom).
Brunei Darussalam has an established Pusat
Bahagia to assist PWDs, whereby in 2019,
433 PWDs were registered in these centres. In an effort to ensure an effective transition
Additionally, Pusat Bahagia, through its for PWDs in the labour market, the
network of strategic partnership, works to Community Based Rehabilitation Unit under
raise awareness to prevent harassment of the MCYS also works with strategic partners
PWDs in the workplace and to ensure that to provide work placements for three months
access to the general labour market are and job matching for PWDs, whereby in
monitored and addressed. 2019, five PWDs were successfully
employed.
In addition, in 2019, the Youth Development
Centre (YDC) organised a programme, The SEU, MOE and government secondary
‘Program Pendedahan Kemahiran OKU’, for schools collaborate with employers from
differently-abled youth to partake in short various industries to provide differently abled

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students in their final years of the Pre- The achievements of Brunei Darussalam’s
Vocational Programme, with work para athletes in various regional and
attachments that provide them with international competitions have indeed
appropriate work related skills at various boosted their self-confidence and dedication,
placements according to their abilities and as reflected by their continuous outstanding
skills. The Government also assists in performances in winning many medals,
promoting and marketing products made by recently exemplified at the 2019 World Para
PWDs, and provide entrepreneurial spaces Bowling Tour Championship in the
for such products in public premises Philippines and 2019 Arafura Sports Games
including government buildings. More in Australia.
recently, several PWD NGOs were granted
space in government buildings, which Inclusivity of the PWDs - Education
contributed towards significantly reducing As part of the MOE’s mission to deliver
their operating costs. holistic education to achieve fullest potential
for all, it adopts an inclusive education policy
Inclusivity of the PWDs – Sports where there is no segregation of schools for
The universality of sports has provided those with special needs. These students are
PWDs excellent platforms to highlight provided with special education
greater awareness and inclusion as well as programmes, at both primary and secondary
provide opportunities to also contribute in mainstream government schools.
bolstering the country’s own international
reputation in sports. The National Education System for the 21st
Century (SPN21), which commenced in
2009, provides students, including PWDs,
with multiple pathways according to their
individual capabilities, interests, inclinations,
growth and development, thereby catering to
their needs.

Education services for PWDs are provided

by Special Education Needs Assistance
(SENA) teachers and aides available in
many schools. The Government introduced
the Model Inclusive Schools (MIS) project in
2008 and embarked on a major
centralisation initiative in 2019 to set up two
Centres of Excellence for students with
special needs in the Temburong District.

Introduced and implemented in selected

primary and secondary schools, the MIS
project is a significant initiative undertaken in
order to meet the needs of students with
Images: PWDs are given equal opportunities to different abilities including those with Autism.
participate in sporting events (top and bottom). Through this project, nine purposely built

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buildings (five at primary level and four at  Religious Internship Programme:
secondary level) are equipped with students with different abilities are
specialised learning equipments and assisted and aided by their special
teaching resources built within the vicinity of religious education teachers.
the mainstream school compounds. These
selected schools provide students with  Cued Speech Programme: a visual
different abilities with relevant learning and system of communication used with and
adaptive skills as preparation to actively among those with hearing impairment. It
participate alongside their same age peers in is one of the initiatives to approach and
the regular classroom. teach students not only with hearing and
speech impairments but also students
Meanwhile, the two Centres of Excellence in with Autism, Down Syndrome, selective
the Temburong District are essentially local mutism and multiple learning disabilities.
schools that are equipped with the It is phonemic-based and systemises
appropriate infrastructure and facilities, traditionally spoken languages
specialised resources and learning accessible by using a small number of
equipments as well as the provision of SENA handshapes, known as cues
teachers and teacher aides to meet the (representing consonants), in different
needs of students based on their diagnosis. locations near the mouth (representing
vowels) to convey spoken language in a
Selected primary and secondary schools visual format.
have also been allocated additional funding
and support to ensure they have the  Modifications and adaptations, such as
necessary school facilities, special learning using sign language or cued speech, for
equipments or resources, specialist support Religious Education Primary Schools
services, and teacher training programs to Certificate Examinations for registered
provide quality inclusive education for a wide special candidates.
range of students with diverse learning
needs.

Under the purview of the Religious Special

Education Unit, Religious Schools Division,
MORA, several programmes for PWDs are
provided, namely:
 Intervention Programme by Pull-Out
System: provides individual learning
through a method of structured learning
approach using the Picture Exchange
Communication System (PECS) system
and also study while playing.

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A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH
NGOs partner with the Government to advocate for the inclusion and empowerment of PWDs.

Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan)

Pusat Ehsan is a non-governmental and non-profit
charitable organisation committed to providing quality
education, rehabilitation and vocational training
programmes for PWDs. it serves individuals with Cerebral
Palsy, Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder,
Hearing Impairment, Visual Impairment, as well as
individuals with Global Developmental Delays and
Intellectual Disabilities. Established in 2000, Pusat Ehsan
has two centres, serving more than 300 PWDs. It
recognises the need for PWDs to be independent in
society and the provision of appropriate activities to Image: Pusat Ehsan.
achieve this, and involves a network of families,
caregivers, volunteers and the general community in
providing services for them.

Images: PWDs enjoying activities at Pusat Ehsan.

The Pusat Ehsan curriculum framework covers Functional Academic Learning; Physical,
Personal and Social Learning; and Career and Vocational Learning. There are three stages of
learning for students, namely the Foundation Years (Years 1 to 6), Consolidation Years (Years
7 to 10) and Transition Years (Years 11 to 15). Currently, Pusat Ehsan’s programmes are
provided free of charge, with parents encouraged to contribute in whatever way they can to help
ease the operating costs. Their programmes include:

The Educational Programme: Individuals are placed in classes according to their chronological
age, so that they are able to participate in age appropriate educational programmes:

 Early Development Programme: In partnership with the Ministry of Health, this

programme is designed for children from ages two to five years old. It is a transition
programme for those assessed to be delayed in their development milestones to prepare
them with the skills necessary for school.

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  Early, Middle and Upper Class: Catering for
students from ages two to 15 years old, this
programme helps them prepare for school by
providing language, social-emotional, physical
and cognitive development.

The classes also provide the students different

learning opportunities, such as educational
trips, which enables them to make sense of the
world around them.
Image: An activity of Pusat Ehsan.
 Vocational Programme: As part of the
Transition Years, this programme aims to help
students gradually assimilate into the different
stages of adulthood (home, community, leisure,
and work) through home-based and community-
based instruction. At this stage of learning,
students will focus more clearly on their areas of
interest as well as establish their intended
pathways beyond school and into the
communities in which they live. ‘My Ability
Counts’ is a public awareness campaign
designed to encourage support from the public
Image: One of the activities at Pusat Ehsan. and private sectors in providing job opportunities
for Pusat Ehsan trainees.

The Rehabilitation Programme:

This programme aims to help every client with different
abilities achieve their maximum functional ability with regards
to their daily living activities, and includes Physiotherapy,
Occupational Therapy, Language and Communication, and
Psychology.

With a small number of dedicated staff, the rehabilitation

programme has grown to provide more than 3,000 treatment Image: A rehabilitation facility at
sessions annually. Pusat Ehsan.

The primary aim of the rehabilitation unit is to supplement rehabilitation services for PWDs in
Brunei Darussalam. It assists clients to maintain or attain their maximum potential by using
treatment concepts to ease pain, improve mobility, and facilitate activity and participation in
accordance with the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Function.

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The Society for Management of Autism Related Issues in Training, Education and
Resources (SMARTER)
SMARTER Brunei is a family support organisation run by parents and family members for persons
with Autism, from childhood to old age in a seamless journey to interdependent. Its mission is to
provide close collaboration and closely work together with parents, families, therapists and other
professionals, to help children develop their fullest potential. It provides lifelong services, with
their own pre-vocational, vocational and employment programme that caters towards each
person’s individualistic needs through their centres, in support of the Ministry of Education’s
Special Education Unit. It launched its Brunei Autism Centre for Adults in 2008.

SMARTER Brunei seeks sponsors for families unable to afford SMARTER Brunei’s services well
as relays them to relevant agencies. SMARTER Brunei’s current employment programme,
launched in 2017 for individuals with Autism, can help their families financially and ease any
financial burden through the provision of training and employment for these individuals at its
centres.

SMARTER Brunei’s programmes are catered towards preparing all individuals for a mainstream
education environment. It aids them to be more prepared in what to expect and how to cope and
manage with school life. It actively does awareness programmes and fundraisers to strengthen
community ties and is one of the founding members of the ASEAN Autism Network. SMARTER
Brunei also chaired and hosted the ASEAN Autism Network congress in 2013. Additionally, it has
also been a part of the Flinders University Attachment programme, where students from the
University attend SMARTER Brunei under a three-week attachment, supported and funded by
the New Colombo Plan, Australia.

Currently SMARTER Brunei is working towards having better representation from its individuals
with Autism as well as developing, empowering and ensuring that individuals with Autism are able
to be their own voice, within their capabilities. The organisation continues to support its members
however they need.

The Down Syndrome Association

The Down Syndrome Association (ABLE) was officially established on 18 July 2012 based on the
realisation of the need to create a united voice to stress on the rights of persons with Down
Syndrome such as public awareness and understanding, government support, and providing
support to families of individuals with Down Syndrome. With the motto ‘Ability Built through
Learning and Experience’, ABLE strives to build the ability of individuals with Down Syndrome
through the processes of learning, training and experience sharing amongst the family members
and professionals who are involved with helping persons with Down Syndrome.

Its main objectives include:

 To support persons with Down Syndrome and family members through efforts and
activities related to social, training, education, and psychological development of
individuals with Down Syndrome;
 To create awareness and acceptance among members of the public about individuals
with Down Syndrome;

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  To advocate for the rights of persons with Down syndrome to assessment and
development programmes, inclusive education and employment;
 To protect the rights of all individuals with Down Syndrome against all forms of persecution
(physical and mental);
 To provide a platform to empower those with Down Syndrome and their family members
by providing opportunities to develop their abilities towards making them competent,
independent, able to work and contribute to the society and country; and
 To raise funds to be used for the welfare of each member.

ABLE is located in a flat unit provided by the MCYS. Besides being a support hub to its Honorary
Members (their parents and family members), the centre aims to also be an information resource
centre on issues related to Down Syndrome.

ABLE’s initiatives and programmes include:

 Parent’s Enrichment Programme which improve parent’s awareness and increase their
capacity by providing training on how to take care of children with Down Syndrome,
including language, speaking and communication;
 ‘Pertagasi’ which is an agricultural entrepreneurship project that educates and trains
those with Down Syndrome and their parents in modern agricultural practices, such as
planting, maintenance, harvest and marketing. This project aims to provide them a way to
have income and be independent; and
 Further plans include physical and sensorial activities, sports, educational programmes,
music and culture activities, social skills and life skills programmes. All these are aimed
to develop ABLE’s Honorary Members to become competent individuals who will be able
to contribute to the society and economy.

Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind

Established in 2001, the Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind (BDNAB) aims to
empower the blind and partially sighted by striving to promote equality and full participation
in society. Its objectives include to:
 promote the prevention and treatment of blindness and visual impairment;
 spread objective information on the situation of the blind and partially sighted in order to
win friends and allies in the struggle for equality and full participation in society by the
visually disabled in Brunei Darussalam;
 keep the blind and partially sighted informed about their rights to existing possibilities for
assistance;
 plan, establish and run different kinds of activities and services for the blind and partially
sighted in the country;
 improve the situation of the blind and partially sighted in the fields of education,
employment and culture; and
 represent the blind and partially sighted nationally and internationally.

To achieve its objectives, the BDNAB has undertaken several activities and initiatives as below:

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Skills Classes:
 Conduct braille classes to its members and to those visually impaired.
 Conduct ICT training with programmes that are accessible to blind/visually impaired.
 Conduct braille and embosser maintenance stream.
 Give opportunities to its members to organise events and activities.
 Teach skills to BDNAB members such as operator skill, office work and etc.
 Produce academic braille books for visually impaired students so that they are not left
behind. The Special Education Unit at the MOE will distribute the academic braille books
to these students.
 Ensure developers produce applications and websites that are accessible to the
blind/visually impaired user, including for online taxis.
 Buildings audit - to make sure the environment is different ability friendly and follows the
Different Abilities Design Guidelines issued by the Ministry of Development.
 Advocate for the inclusion of the differently abled in the formation of Plans of Action as
well as activities/programmes nationally and internationally.

Braillethon Service:
 Invite the community to volunteer in making braille books for the blind/visually impaired.
This will help accelerate the production of reading materials, to promote higher literacy
rates among the blind/visually impaired.

Khatam Al-Quran Ceremony using Braille:

 Promote public awareness on the use of the Jawi braille chord among the blind/visually
impaired.

Braille, Orientation and Mobility Workshop:

 Demonstrate a whole of nation approach through close cooperation with government
agencies in addressing issues affecting PWDs.
 Raise public awareness on the importance of braille chord, such as among others
academic braille books and braille notes.
 Train the community on the right way to guide the blind/visually impaired, based on
orientation and mobility.

White Cane Day Charity Run:

 Create public awareness regarding the usage of white canes and the safety of its users,
including on the installation of tactile walkways and voice announcements at pedestrian
crossings and traffic lights.

La Vida
La Vida, a non-profit organisation, promotes the inclusion of PWDs and the underprivileged within
families, in the school, community, sport and workplace through the following initiatives, among
others:

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 Beam Initiative: Empowering youths with
different abilities with life skills to address
employment obstacles as well as aiding in
building support networks for their
products/services, including collaboration with
local businesses for internship opportunities.

The internship programme allows youth with

different abilities to develop understanding of
working habits and responsibilities, create Image: One of La Vida’s Internship
opportunities for self-discovery and potential, Programmes.
and provide skills and training that will propel
them further into independent living. Thus far, La
Vida has collaborated with seven companies.

 In addition, La Vida runs the Beam Arts

Programme, under its Beam Initiative, which
aims to produce quality art and art products for
sale as a means of earning income for youth with
different abilities.

This allows them to achieve independence

through sales of their artwork or royalties from art
products. Future plans include providing greater
assistance and support to market their products. Image: La Vida’s Beam Arts programme.

Images: Artworks
of the Beam Arts
programme (left
and right).

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Sustainable Development Goal 11
Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and
sustainable
The Ministry of Development (MOD), through agricultural, commercial, industrial and
the Department of Town and Country health sectors.
Planning, is responsible for planning the
country’s infrastructure development, given The National Land Use Planning Council
the limited proportion of developable land in (NLUPC) was also established to address
Brunei Darussalam. The MOD continuously competing demands on land use to
aims to safeguard sufficient land for various accommodate the country’s present and
uses, protect amenity, and preserve a high future needs.
quality of living as the population expands.
HOUSE OWNERSHIP
INTEGRATED LAND USE PLANNING Brunei Darussalam prioritises home
Land is a vital asset that acts as an impetus ownership for its citizens, as evidenced by
for the country’s development and progress. the introduction of the National Housing
The Government therefore strives to adopt a Programme (RPN) in 1976 which assist
sustainable approach in land use, which citizens, especially those in the lower income
places equal emphasis on the economic, groups, to be able to own homes at rates
social and environmental aspects. subsidised by the Government.

Developable land is 34.0% of the total land As of 2019, the home ownership rate was
area of Brunei Darussalam, where 5.5% of 66.0% with a target of 85% by 2035. To
this is categorised as easily developable achieve this target, the MOD is working to
land. The target is to optimise land use within ensure long-term financial viability of the
the development plans, and address the RPN, in order to deliver a more cost-effective
challenge of sustainability of land for and sustainable financial model.
development.

Action plans to optimise land use include

reviewing land density, plot ratio and plot
coverage for development, and promotion of
compact development, such as higher
density, vertical development to meet
sustainable development objectives.

The guidelines for land use are prepared

through the National Land Use Master Plan,
District Plans, Local Plans and Planning
Schemes whereby lands are zoned in
accordance to the educational, residential, Image: Presentation of house key plaques to new
house owners under the RPN (2019).

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 departments’ goals to become an effective
regulator of environmental management.

In terms of legislation, the country has

gazetted two laws pertaining to the
management and protection of the
environment, namely the Environmental
Protection and Management Order (EPMO)
2016 and the Hazardous Waste (Control of
Export, Import and Transit) Order (HWO)
2013. Under the EPMO 2016, activities
Image: Presentation of house key plaques to new deemed to have environmental impacts and
house owners under the RPN (2019). identified as Prescribed Activities are
required to submit Written Notification,
BUILDING SAFETY together with Environmental Impact
The Authority for Building Control and Assessments (EIA) and/or Environmental
Construction Industry (ABCi) is a governing Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP),
body that regulates the development of the to JASTRe for approval prior to the
construction industry by ensuring all commencement of such activities. The HWO
construction work abides by the 2013 serves to regulate the export, import
requirements for development control under and transit of hazardous and other waste, in
the Building Control Order 2014, which aims line with the country’s commitment as a party
to ensure the safety and health of the public. to the Basel Convention on the Control of
Transboundary Movements of Hazardous
The ABCi launched the ‘Piawaian Brunei Wastes and their Disposal.
Darussalam 12:2017 - Building Guidelines
and Requirements’ in 2017 as an JASTRe has also issued, among others, the
amendment to the 2014 edition. The new following documents related to pollution:
edition streamlines the requirements for i) Environmental Acts and Guidelines;
development control, as part of efforts to ii) Pollution Control Guidelines for
further ease the processes. Industrial Development;
iii) EIA; and
ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT AND iv) Recycle 123 Handbook.
SUSTAINABLE CITY
Effective management of Brunei To achieve sustainable environmental
Darussalam’s environment requires management, JASTRe targets to reduce
collective responsibility and shared waste generation per capita, currently at 1.15
commitment of multiple government kilogram per capita per day. In this regard,
agencies. The Department of Environment, the Solid Waste Management Strategy set
Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) is tasked to out by JASTRe aims to address and manage
develop a planned approach to sustainable waste issues in Brunei Darussalam in an
environmental management and protection, effective and sound manner through the
allowing for synergistic coordination of following:
relevant agencies in tandem with the i) Waste minimisation through 3R;

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ii) Provision of efficient, cost effective and Brunei Darussalam is also working closely in
sustainable waste collection; addressing transboundary haze pollution in
iii) Youth empowerment to champion and the region with its ASEAN counterparts
partake in various environmental through the ASEAN Ministers responsible for
initiatives and activities; and the environment, land, forest fires and haze
iv) Enhancement of enforcement to curb track.
littering and illegal dumping.
At present, river water quality monitoring is
Continuous efforts are also underway to being carried out for all major rivers in Brunei
harmonise and improve the present waste Darussalam’s four districts. The various
collection system for Brunei Darussalam parameters measured and recorded are
towards an integrated waste management currently being compiled to develop and
system by 2025. This includes instilling a eventually determine the state of the river
sense of responsibility among individuals water quality. The river water quality is
and the community for their own waste targeted to increase from medium quality to
management. To reduce reliance on the high quality (80-90 based on the river water
Government for the overall waste collection quality index) by 2035.
and management, privatised waste
collection services from home to home have Through the Sewerage Laboratory, sewage
been effectively carried out in many areas in treatment plant performance and treated
the country. water (effluent) discharged into rivers are
monitored in order to meet the required water
The JASTRe is also targeting to ensure good quality standard and treatment performance.
air quality in the country throughout the year, Monitoring of receiving water is also carried
well within the standards of the World Health out to ensure there is no pollution and river
Organization and the United States ecology is not affected by the effluent. Under
Environmental Protection Agency. Action the EPMO 2016, industries are listed under
plans include environmental protection and Prescribed Activities, which requires them to
management for industries and construction monitor their environmental discharges and
activities to take proper air quality preventive ensures that they comply with the
and mitigation measures under the EIA; permissible standards and limits set by
strengthen regulations and enforcement JASTRe.
against illegal activities that pollute air quality
and address air pollution from vehicular In addition, Brunei Darussalam supports
emissions. international efforts to manage the
environment in a sustainable manner as
In light of increasing bush and forest fires in reflected in the country being signatory to a
the country, due to hotter and drier weather number of multilateral agreements to tackle
conditions, Brunei Darussalam is actively environmental challenges including ozone
undertaking preventive measures. These depletion, climate change and
include tackling rampant open burning and transboundary movement of hazardous
mitigating bush and forest fires, which are waste.
being strengthened through the current
amendments to the EPMO 2016.

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As part of the country’s capital city DISASTER MANAGEMENT
rejuvenation efforts, the Taman Mahkota Due to its size and geographical location,
Jubli Emas was officiated by His Majesty Brunei Darussalam is not a disaster-prone
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and country. A number of people, albeit limited,
Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on are affected by disasters, mostly from low-
22 October 2017 for recreational activities. level hazards such as flash floods, forest
The said park has become a landmark in the fires and landslides.
capital that signifies the importance of
healthy living. In addressing flash floods, the Government
has invested in an extensive drainage
The closure of selected roads in the capital system which aims to address flood
Bandar Seri Begawan to traffic from 6 am mitigation issues and to ensure public assets
until 10 am every Sunday for the weekly are secured.
Bandarku Ceria allows the public to engage
in leisure sports, other recreational activities It targets to reduce flood prone areas through
and business activities, to further promote an effective integrated flood risk reduction
healthy lifestyles and to strengthen family approach which include the following
institutions. initiatives:
i) Adoption of a real time early warning
The Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas, in flood detection system that will send
combination with the weekly closure of the alerts to the public;
roads for Bandarku Ceria, contributes greatly ii) Formulation of the Drainage Act to
to the target of promoting open universal provide the Department of Drainage and
access to safe, inclusive and accessible Sewerage with authority to carry out
green and public spaces. enforcement duties against non-
compliance;
iii) Flood mitigation projects through
National Development Plans; and
iv) Proactive drainage maintenance.

As a result of these efforts, flood prone areas

in the country have been reduced by 28.6%
based on the baseline in 1997. The MOD
aims to achieve a percentage reduction
target of 49.5% by 2035.
Image: Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas. Flood Prone Areas in Brunei Darussalam:
Brunei Darussalam is also participating in the 1997: 456km2
ASEAN Smart City Network initiative,
whereby cities from all ASEAN Member 2015: 345km2
States work together towards the common
goal of smart and sustainable urban 2018: 332km2
development. Bandar Seri Begawan has
been selected as the country’s Pilot City in 2035: 235km2
this project.

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The Strategic National Action Plan for Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction
Disaster Risk Reduction is an example of 2015–2030.
Brunei Darussalam’s measures related to
disaster risk reduction. It was drafted in In addition, the NDMC is working closely with
consultation with government agencies, the the District Disaster Management Committee
private sector and civil society, to address (DDMC) that consists of multiple government
the needs of all Bruneians during the agencies and is chaired by the District Office.
occurrence of a disaster. The DDMC has connections with grassroot
leaders who assist in monitoring the well-
The National Disaster Management Centre being and ensuring the needs of
(NDMC) implements domestic programmes, communities are taken care of, particularly at
such as Tabletop Exercises and Community flood-prone areas and villages.
Based Disaster Risk Management, to ensure
awareness and knowledge of disaster Several regional initiatives are being used as
response are mainstreamed to communities models in this country for disaster
effectively without discrimination. management plans and initiatives. Brunei
Darussalam has hosted the 11th ASEAN
The NDMC has introduced a Disaster Emergency Response and Assessment
Preparedness Coordinator programme, Team Induction Course, together with the
which looks to train community and ASEAN Coordinating Centre for
grassroots leaders with the abilities and Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster
competencies to assist authorities during Management in April 2018. At least 25 local
disaster preparedness activities or disaster experts have been recognised to have the
response operations. competency in assessing and coordinating
large scale disaster relief.
Brunei Darussalam is also currently finalising
its Disaster Management Strategic Policy
Framework this year. This framework is an
integrated policy that aims to build the
country’s resilience to disasters and develop
holistic disaster risk management at all
levels, and is in line with the Sendai

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Sustainable Development Goal 12
Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
WASTE MANAGEMENT Everyday’ initiative starting 1 January 2019,
Brunei Darussalam recognises the need to with over 60 participating stores.
use its resources sustainably in all aspects of
life. Tackling waste is an important issue for Excise duties on plastic products were
the country, with current waste generation increased in 2017 in support of efforts to
standing at 1.15 kilogram per capita per day. reduce the amount of plastic waste to be
The Government aims to reduce this to 1 disposed of, encourage the use of recycled
kilogram per capita per day by 2035. materials and to help minimise pollution.
Future developments in addressing plastic
The Department of Environment, Parks and pollution include rolling out the ‘No Plastic
Recreation (JASTRe) continues to engage Bag Everyday’ initiative nationwide to other
stakeholders such as youth, academic users of plastic bags such as small shops or
institutions, private companies and non- convenience stores, restaurants and food
governmental organisations (NGOs) in stalls; expanding the ‘Plastic Bottle Free’
combating plastic pollution in the country initiative beyond the government sector; as
through provision of guidance on good well as exploring the possibility of halting
practices and a variety of regulatory sytrofoam importation and prospect of
measures. These include the introduction of increasing excise tax for single-use plastics.
the ‘No Plastic Bag Everyday’, ‘Plastic Bottle
Free’ and ‘Reduce The Use of Styrofoam’ The Municipal Department is also strictly
initiatives. One of Brunei Darussalam’s enforcing proper disposal of waste
efforts to reduce waste is through the particularly in public areas, whereby it
introduction of the 3R (Reduce, Reuse and imposes heavy penalties for those found to
Recycle) concept. The country has be illegally dumping their waste in these
exceeded its initial target of 20% recycling areas.
rate by 2020, with the current rate to-date at
25%. The target is to achieve a recycling rate SUSTAINABLE USE OF PRIMARY
of 30% by 2035. RESOURCES
Brunei Darussalam is conscious of the need
In its move to combat plastic pollution, to use its primary resources, such as its seas
particularly on single-use plastics, JASTRe and forests, in a sustainable manner. The
introduced the ‘No Plastic Bag Weekend’ Primary sector, that includes agriculture,
initiative in 2011, covering Saturdays and fisheries and forestry, is bound by various
Sundays. Carrying the slogan ‘It Takes a interrelated government policies and
Nation to End Plastic Pollution’, it has regulations. Any sectoral project being
resulted in major department stores reporting implemented has to be sustainable in nature
a steady decrease of a 12% monthly with elements of conservation well in place,
average, with a reduction difference of 77% by considering its impact to the environment
in plastic bag use between January and as a whole. Each sector has specific
December 2018. This initiative was gra initiatives, programmes or regulatory
dually expanded into the ‘No Plastic Bag measures in place to ensure sustainability,

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such as the Brunei Good Agricultural the Temburong District and Kampong
Practice, Good Animal Husbandry Practices, Sungai Bunga in the Kampong Ayer (Water
Good Aquaculture Practices, Control and Village), Bandar Seri Begawan.
Prevention of Overfishing, Brunei Selection
Felling System, and quota system in forestry In recognition of stakeholders’ joint actions to
production. decrease the negative environmental or
social impact brought on by rapid tourism
To control and prevent overfishing, there are expansion, Brunei Darussalam’s Kampong
regulatory measures that determine zoning Ayer was recently awarded with the ‘ASEAN
systems for fishing which are divided Sustainable Tourism Award’ (ASTA) in the
according to sizes and scale of operations. Urban ASEAN sustainable tourism category
Commercial fishing vessels are only allowed whereas Bangar Town in the Temburong
in Zone 2 (3.1 – 20 nautical miles), Zone 3 District was recognised with the ‘ASEAN
(20.1 – 45 nautical miles) and Zone 4 (45.1 – Clean City Award’. Meanwhile, the private
200 nautical miles). Further, the fisheries sector has also demonstrated their
Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) has been commitment to sustainable tourism, where
set at 21,300 Metric Tonnes per year, where the Radisson Hotel and Ulu Ulu Resort were
the total annual harvest to date is well below presented with the ‘ASEAN Green Hotel
the MSY. Additional regulatory measures Award’ in January 2020, for their initiatives in
include allocation of fishing licenses energy-saving, use of green products and
according to available quota for both community involvement.
commercial and small scale fishing in the
respective zones; specific allowable types of The community based One Village One
fishing gears; and the banning of trawlers Product (OVOP) initiative provides
that will take effect by 1 January 2021. opportunities for villagers to promote their
handicrafts and their ethnic cultural show
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM performances to tourists, thus contributing to
Tourism is one of the priority areas that has the socio-economic development of the
significant impacts to the country’s economic community. Such community-based tourism
growth, due to the spin-offs generated to activities are jointly coordinated by the
economic activities, local employment, and Department of Tourism Development and
entrepreneurship. the District Office and promoted as part of
tourism packages for both local and foreign
Amongst the strategies to promote a tourists to experience the uniqueness and
sustainable tourism sector are to strengthen cultural diversity of local communities.
and ensure the sustainability of current
tourism products while introducing more COMMUNITY OUTREACH
niche tourism that are activity based, such as A collective responsibility and shared
bird watching, diving, sports, adventure commitment by government and non-
tourism as well as culture and community- governmental agencies as well as the public
based tourism. To date, there has been an on environmental awareness is essential.
increase in community-based tourism Raising environmental awareness is made
particularly those that provide authentic through activities and programmes for
cultural immersion experiences and green various audiences or target groups including
destinations such as Eco Ponies Garden in the education sector. A variety of mediums
the Tutong District, Sumbiling Eco Village in used include talks and hands-on activities;

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educational trips; and dissemination of actively advocated by non-governmental and
environment-related information via social non-profit organisations as well as social
media, mass media and radio. enterprises.
Environmental awareness has also been

A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

Green Brunei
Green Brunei, a social enterprise established in 2012, aims to promote environmental
sustainability through youth-led initiatives in the fields of education, conservation and advocacy.
Their initiatives to ensure responsible consumption in Brunei Darussalam include:
 Organising recycling competitions and regular recycling drives;
 Setting up a Green Depot in Kuala Belait, as a ‘waste bank’ that enables local communities
to recycle and collect points, which can then be converted to cash. This Green Depot
concept will be extended to a second location; and
 Organising regular talks and workshops related to waste management.

La Vida
In addition to its other activities, La Vida, a non-profit organisation, operates the La Vida Thrift
Shop, with the following aims:
 Promote concepts of reduce and reuse by accepting
secondhand or unused goods from community donors and
selling them at low prices;
 Encourage a culture of waste reduction and buying second hand
to save cost and the environment through social media channels
and sustaining a physical shop front; and
 Support underprivileged mothers through paid internships at the
store. Its future plans include providing part or full time
employment for these mothers, with travel, training and day care
support.

Image: La Vida Thrift

Shop donation activities.
The shop enforces the 'Go Green’ initiative and charges for plastic
bag use. Proceeds go to fund La Vida’s various programmes and
initiatives aimed at poverty eradication, inclusive education and
character building.

La Vida also hopes to provide a platform for sales of artisan products

made by local artists/entrepreneurs using recycled/upcycled items,
upcycling workshops, educational platform for the general public as
well as students.

Image: Children recipients

at the La Vida Thrift Shop.

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Sustainable Development Goal 13
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
The environmental aspects of the 2030 the Kyoto Protocol and one of the first
Agenda for Sustainable Development are in ASEAN Member States to ratify the Paris
line with Wawasan Brunei 2035, whereby Agreement on 21 September 2016 which led
Brunei Darussalam aims to develop and to its early entry into force.
maintain a high quality of life while ensuring
the preservation of its natural environment. These commitments mean shifting
development priorities towards sustainable
CLIMATE CHANGE inclusive transition to low-carbon and
Globally, the country only contributed about resilient green growth.
0.025% of the total greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions in 2018. At the same time, with As such, Brunei Darussalam has
72% forest coverage, the country still has implemented several national measures and
one of the highest carbon sinks relative to its strategies to combat the potential risks of
size. climate change to the country. These include
reviewing the usage and consumption of
Brunei Darussalam may be one of the least energy among the public and private sector;
to contribute to global warming, yet it is developing new guidelines, regulations and
impacted by heavy downpours, floods, policies to reduce GHG emissions;
heatwave and wildfires that are already promoting the sustainable use of energy;
affecting the people, landscapes, wildlife and renewable energy deployment; forest
livelihoods in general. The country’s mean plantation programme; and raising
temperature has shown an increasing trend awareness on the potential impacts of
of 0.25 degree celsius per decade with climate change through continuous
rainfall amount increasing at a rate of 100mm promotional and educational programmes.
per decade.
WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH
As part of the global community, Brunei Climate change is under the purview of the
Darussalam is fully committed to Brunei Climate Change Secretariat (BCCS),
international efforts to address climate a government authority mandated to
change and contribute to the implementation develop, implement, monitor and evaluate
of the SDGs by 2030, the objectives of the Brunei Darussalam’s climate change
United Nations Framework Convention on policies, strategies and actions.
Climate Change (UNFCCC) and goals of the
Paris Agreement. In an effort to ensure a whole of nation
approach in addressing the adverse effects
Brunei Darussalam became Party to the of climate change, the Government has
UNFCCC on 7 August 2007 and submitted strengthened its climate governance to
its Intended Nationally Determined ensure an effective cross-sectoral climate
Contribution on 1 December 2015. Brunei action could be coordinated at a national
Darussalam is also among the 130 countries level.
that have ratified the Doha Amendment to

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The governance structure includes a Brunei Upon completion of the BNCP, there are
National Council on Climate Change, an plans for the BCCS to work with the Ministry
Executive Committee on Climate Change of Education to frame opportunities to
and three working groups on Climate inculcate climate education.
Mitigation, Climate Adaptation and
Resilience, and Support Framework. Brunei Darussalam stands committed to
reaffirming and fulfilling its international
The Brunei National Council on Climate commitment under the Paris Agreement.
Change consists of key ministers to provide This year, the Government will be
the highest level of strategic direction in communicating its enhanced Nationally
addressing climate change. The Executive Determined Contribution that demonstrates
Committee on Climate Change includes the country’s increased climate ambition.
Permanent Secretaries, CEOs, Managing Brunei Darussalam has submitted its first
Directors and Chairmans from relevant and second National Communications to the
public, private and non-governmental UNFCCC. The Biennial Update Report is
organisations (NGOs). The working group planned to be submitted once there is
members include directors and officers from capacity to develop the report.
government, non-government and academic
bodies. These varying levels ensure a multi- There are plans to establish a National
sectoral approach to climate change Designated Authority to operationalise
mitigation, adaptation and support. Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on carbon
market mechanisms and open up prospects
The climate governance continues to work in for industries to offset their GHG emissions
a whole of nation approach which resulted in through international carbon markets in the
the development of the Brunei National future.
Climate Policy (BNCP) to pave for Brunei
Darussalam’s low carbon and climate CARBON EMISSIONS
resilient pathways for a sustainable nation, In 2018, Brunei Darussalam’s GHG
with 2035 as the target year. The policy will emissions were approximately 10.1 million
underpin the principles, values and tonnes. As 99% of electricity is generated
strategies to reduce carbon emissions, from natural gas, power generation is the
increase carbon sink, strengthen climate largest contributor to GHG emissions in the
resilience nationwide as well as outline the country.
national adaptation plan.
As such, the Government has introduced a
A total of 39 agencies, consisting of number of measures to rectify this, namely:
government bodies, private sector agencies, i) Promoting efficient energy consumption
research and academic institutions, and behaviour through the implementation
NGOs were appointed as members of the of a smart tariff system and smart
BNCP drafting committee. To provide meters;
insights from youth’s perspective, a group of ii) Energy management in government and
51 youth representatives from different commercial sectors;
sectors of Brunei Darussalam were invited to iii) New tariffs for commercial and industry
participate in the review of the BNCP draft. sectors;

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iv) Energy Efficiency and Conservation CARBON FOOTPRINT CALCULATOR
(EEC) Building Guidelines for Non- The BCCS has developed an online carbon
Residential sectors; and footprint calculator whereby the public is able
v) Increasing shares of new and to calculate their own individual carbon
renewable energy (NRE). footprint and learn to offset their carbon
emissions by adopting trees. This initiative is
Preliminary GHG emissions (2018) - 10.1 supported by Green Brunei, a local NGO.
million tonnes
CLIMATE ADAPTATION AND
RESILIENCE
As a small, coastal area with a tropical
climate, Brunei Darussalam has medium to
Power Fugitive Land high climate change exposure. The country’s
Generation Emissions Transport coastal areas are low-lying (up to 12 metres
55.9% 18.1% 13.6% below sea level) which increases its
susceptibility to the impact of rising sea
level.

Although the country has been fortunate

enough to not have experienced major
Manufacturing Industry Waste
natural disasters, it is still susceptible to flash
& Construction Processes Sector
4.1% 3.78% 2.18%
floods, forest fires, strong wind, and
landslides. Even though the number of
people affected is relatively low, the
Government still recognises the need to
strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity
to protect and safeguard the country’s
people, landscapes, wildlife and livelihoods
Agriculture & Land Use Residential Sector against climate-related hazards and
1.35% 0.9% disasters.

Brunei Darussalam’s climate resilience and

In achieving Brunei Darussalam’s climate adaptive capacity go hand-in-hand with
action aspiration goals towards carbon disaster risk reduction efforts in reducing the
neutrality, among others, the Ministry of population’s exposure to disasters,
Energy’s strategic actions include
especially the vulnerable. These include
rejuvenation projects within the oil and gas
carrying out structural prevention and
industry facilities for GHG emissions mitigation measures through flood mitigation,
abatement, both onshore and offshore slope protection and coastal protection
mainly from venting and flaring activities.
projects whilst also building community
resilience across all levels.
The rejuvenation projects have attributed in
reducing the shares of fugitive emissions of CLIMATE FINANCE
total GHG emissions from 38% in 2015 to At the regional level, Brunei Darussalam is
18.1% in 2018. co-leading a project with the Philippines in
collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat

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and the UNFCCC-Regional Collaboration financial players and regulators, and take
Center, on ASEAN Climate Finance Strategy climate change into macroeconomic policy,
Project under the ASEAN Working Group on fiscal planning/budgeting, public investment
Climate Change Action Plan. management and procurement.

This project aims to facilitate the The desired outcome of the ASEAN Climate
development of climate finance strategy in Finance Strategy focuses on delivering on
order to enhance access to and mobilisation the needs identified by ASEAN Member
of finance as well as to catalyse climate States in their pursuit of sustainable
finance and investment for the development, in accordance with goals
implementation of priority climate mitigation outlined in their NDCs, national adaptation
and adaptation actions. plans, roadmaps for implementation of the
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
An ASEAN Climate Finance Strategy seeks and other relevant policies or strategies
to bring policy cohesiveness across providing clarity to donors and providers of
government ministries, central banks, climate finance.

A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

Green Brunei
Green Brunei is a local social enterprise whose initiatives includes:

 Conduct education programmes on topics related to climate change and sustainable

development such as:
o Green Leaders Camp, which engages local operators, such as Eco Ponies,
Kunyit7Lodge, Sunshine Travel and mangrove tour boat operators, as a partner
or resource person.
o Climate Camp, partnered with Sumbiling Eco Village.
o Organise various educational field trips for students to widen their knowledge on
local tourism, specifically on the use of local resources and promotion of culture.
 Collaborated with the BCCS to develop an online carbon
calculator (http://carbon.green-brunei.com) that enables Bruneians
to calculate their own carbon footprint and to adopt trees to offset
their carbon footprint.
 Regularly organise beach, river and community clean-ups, recycling
drives and tree planting initiatives.
 Enable a platform for youth to voice out their environmental
concerns directly to the relevant stakeholders, including the
ministers.

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Sustainable Development Goal 14
Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine
resources for sustainable development
Located on the north coast of Borneo Island, commitment towards the conservation of its
with 161 kilometres of coastline, Brunei marine areas.
Darussalam is endowed with rich tropical
marine biodiversity occurring in mangrove, In addition, as part of the country’s efforts to
mudflats, open seas and coral reef sustainably maintain its marine resources, its
ecosystems. As such, the Government fisheries policies include:
places importance on the proper and i) Enforcement of zoning systems with
sustainable management of these license quotas for both commercial and
ecosystems. small scale fishing;
ii) Enforcement of allowable types of
PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION fishing gears;
MANAGEMENT iii) Banning of trawlers that is expected to
To ensure the sustainability of its rich marine take effect by 1 January 2021; and
biodiversity for the current and future iv) The imposition of a moratorium on
generations, Brunei Darussalam regulates fishing activities in Zone 1, which is
the management of fisheries activities and within three nautical miles from the
fishing areas as well as protects both coastal coastline.
and sea water environments through several
laws and regulations.

The Government has taken several

measures and initiatives in controlling and
significantly addressing marine pollution.
The Fisheries Order 2009 governs the
protection and management of marine
biodiversity in the country, in which one of the
provisions is the establishment and
management of the marine reserves and
parks.
Image: Brunei Darussalam established the MPAs
In January 2015, the Government to protect and conserve the biodiversity of its
established the Marine Protected Areas seas.
(MPAs) to protect and conserve the
biodiversity of its fragile coral reef, marine Other conservation efforts include banning
plants and animals. Brunei Darussalam’s any catching and landing of endangered
MPA, a coral reef of 1,208 sq. kilometres in species, such as all shark species, from
size or about 20% of its Total Marine Area, is Brunei Darussalam’s waters and their sale in
significantly higher than the SDGs target of domestic markets, as well as on importation
10%. This showcases Brunei Darussalam’s and trade of shark products.

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In combating illegal, unreported and other administrative policies carried out to
unregulated fishing (IUU) in Brunei regulate fishing in the country’s waters.
Darussalam's waters, the 'National Plan of
Action to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL
Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing' EFFORTS
was launched in 2011. Brunei Darussalam continues to support
regional and global cooperation efforts
towards conservation and sustainable use of
oceans, seas and marine resources, such as
the Resolution and Plan of Action on
Sustainable Fisheries for Food Security for
the ASEAN Region Towards 2020 as
adopted by ASEAN Member States and her
counterparts, under a joint ASEAN -
Southeast Asian Fisheries Development
Center (SEAFDEC) Declaration on Regional
Cooperation for Combating IUU Fishing and
Enhancing the Competitiveness of ASEAN
Fish and Fishery Products signed on 3
August 2016 in Bangkok, Thailand.

In 2015, Brunei Darussalam joined other

ASEAN Member States as well as Australia,
the People's Republic of China, Republic of
India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New
Zealand, the Russian Federation and the
United States of America in the East Asia
Summit on Enhancing Regional Maritime
Cooperation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in
declaring and committing to enhance
cooperation in sustainable marine economic
development in accordance with relevant
international instruments, particularly the
Image: Regulating management of fisheries
1982 United Nations Convention on the Law
activities and fishing areas to protect both coastal
and sea water environments. of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Its main objectives include enhancing and MAXIMUM SUSTAINABLE YIELD (MSY)
strengthening the overall level of fisheries Fish and fish products remain prominent in
management in the country's waters; to local diets. In this regard and taking into
sustain fisheries resources and the marine account its limited sea area, Brunei
environment; and to optimise the benefits of Darussalam places an importance on the
adopting responsible fishing practices. sustainability of its marine ecosystems, and
Further, there are regulatory measures such encourages the development of alternatives
as the Fishery Limits Act (Cap. 130) and for marine food production. Other means of
increasing seafood production in the country

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include encouraging increased investment in practices are also well promoted to industry
the aquaculture industry especially in players.
offshore cage fish farming to increase the
gross output from the sector. In 2018, the Brunei Darussalam remains committed
aquaculture industry has contributed 13% towards conservation and sustainable use
towards the overall fisheries industry and management of its marine resources, in
production. line with national and international standards
and obligations, including through
In addition, the Government enforces the international conservation platforms such as
limit of Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) in the Convention of Biological Diversity.
the fisheries capture industry at 21,300
Metric Tonnes (MT) per year, where in 2018, Further to these, the Government will
total harvest of the capture industry was well continue to review and update, where
below the MSY at only 13,566 MT. relevant, policies, rules and regulations as
part of the country’s efforts toward the
All these efforts are to ensure that there are sustainable use of its marine resources.
no overfishing activities; coral reefs and
mangroves are well preserved; and
responsible fishing and environmentally
friendly technology or non-hazardous fishing

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A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

BruWILD
Established in April 2014, the Biodiversity and Natural History Society (BruWILD) is an NGO
that consists mainly of trained biologists and conservationists with differing fields of interests
and expertise. BruWILD members dedicate their time and efforts to share knowledge and
interests on biodiversity conservation and environmental protection in Brunei Darussalam as
well as abroad.

Based on their experience and local knowledge, they strive to provide the best educational
support to local schools, institutions, nature groups and wildlife enthusiasts. They also work
closely with local authorities in biodiversity conservation,
wildlife rescue and sustainable development. One of their
three key projects is ‘Saving Our Ocean’, which was
expanded from their #indamauplastik (#don’twantplastic)
initiative.

The #indamauplastik initiative aimed to prevent marine

pollution, especially plastics, in which they partnered with
few local food and beverage companies for a week of
awareness on plastic pollution and collaborated with
Seastainable.co, a social enterprise based in Singapore,
who provided reusable straws for the initiative. Image: BruWILD outreach programme.

‘Saving Our Ocean’ undertakes to prevent marine pollution through education and action, such
as through Brunei Darussalam’s first micro-documentary titled ‘Tiny Heroes of Our Sea’. Made
in partnership with Our Sea Our Legacy, a Singapore based documentary collective, the video
has reached thousands of viewers with the key message of protecting marine life and ending
pollution. This year, BruWILD is working with Reef Stakes Malaysia, in creating an educational
card game that not only celebrates natural heritage but also to learn and appreciate the
complexities in balancing development and conservation of intertidal ecosystem.

Images: BruWILD outreach progammes.

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Sustainable Development Goal 15
Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems,
sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and
reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss
Brunei Darussalam’s ongoing journey in its forest cover and to protect and conserve
conserving its forests began 50 years before its forest ecosystem. Despite its size, Brunei
its independence, with the enactment of the Darussalam shelters an estimated 15,000
Forest Act in 1934. Among others, this Act species of vascular plants and 2,000 species
provided for the administration of the forests of trees. 72% of total land area is covered
and reservation of forest lands. In response with forests, of which 41% is gazetted as
to challenges and opportunities, the Forest forest reserves. The Government is currently
Act (Cap. 46) was revised in 2013 to give an undertaking efforts to increase the areas
emphasis on the importance of protection gazetted as forests reserves to 55%.
and conservation of forest ecosystem.

The country has two major legal instruments

to protect, restore and promote the
sustainable use of its terrestrial ecosystems,
namely the National Forestry Policy 1989
and the Forest Act (Revised Edition 2013).
Meanwhile, legislations such as the Wild Life
Protection Act 1978 and the Wild Fauna and
Flora Order 2007 allow authorities to
effectively manage and administer forest
resources, such as preservation and
conservation of endangered and threatened Image: Promoting the sustainable use of its
species. Other legal instruments, including terrestrial ecosystems.
the Land Code; Land Acquisition Act;
Antiquities and Treasure Trove Act; Fishery As part of the initiatives in protecting and
Limit Act (Cap. 130); Fisheries Order 2009, conserving the forest ecosystem, the country
the Town and Country Planning Act and has also dedicated three separate forest
Environmental Protection and Management reserves, namely Pulau Selirong Forest
Order 2016, are also in place to provide the Reserve, Ulu Temburong National Park and
legal basis for the administration and Berakas Forest Reserve, to the Queen’s
management of the country’s forest estate Commonwealth Canopy.
and its biodiversity.
Peat swamp forests (PSF) are the second
PROTECTION OF TERRESTRIAL most dominant forest type in the country,
ECOSYSTEMS covering 16% (around 90,000 hectares) of
Together with the aforementioned laws, Brunei Darussalam’s total land area, 80% of
policies and legislations as well as strong which is still estimated to be relatively intact
governance, the country is able to maintain and covered with good quality PSF. These

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 91
PSF are dominated with endemic species of
Shorea albida, locally known as Alan, which
is listed in The International Union for
Conservation of Nature Red List of
Threatened Species.

Images: Faunal diversity in Brunei Darussalam.

SUSTAINABLE USE OF RESOURCES

One of Brunei Darussalam’s initiatives
towards achieving sustainable use of forest
resources is the Brunei Selection Felling
Image: The land viaduct of the Brunei Muara - System (BSFS), adopted since 1986, that is
Temburong Bridge traverses the mangrove aimed at enhancing the overall timber
swamps of Labu Forest Reserve and was productivity of the forest.
designed to have minimal environmental impact.
An important component of BSFS is the
With effective cooperation between application of enrichment planting of which to
government agencies, the private sector and date has a cumulative acreage of more than
local communities, Brunei Darussalam has 14,000 hectares, a decade after its
also made progress in the conservation and introduction.
sustainable management of peatlands
including the total ceasing of logging In addition, public awareness programmes
operations in PSF from October 2017; are also being actively organised through
improved coordination mechanisms and Community Outreach Programmes, by
approaches to control peatland fires; as well encouraging participation from the
as rehabilitation and restoration of peatland government sector and the general public
in the Badas PSF. such as the local communities, non-
governmental organisations (NGOs), private
Besides flora, faunal diversity in the country sector as well as students. Such
is composed of an estimated 121 mammal programmes include tree planting activities
species; 474 bird species; 182 amphibians and forest-related research projects.
and reptiles; and 500 species of marine fish
and invertebrates14. Additionally, the proposed Biodiversity Order
will facilitate the implementation of
Meanwhile in protecting against the harms of biodiversity conservation and management
alien invasive species, the academic sector in the country. The proposed Order
is continuously doing research and studies emphasises on the importance of
while the Government is strengthening its biodiversity conservation, bio-prospecting as
quarantine service by regulating the entry of well as access and benefit sharing that will
potential invasive species into the country.

14
https://www.cbd.int/doc/world/bn/bn-nr-05-en.pdf

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 92
help Brunei Darussalam to sustainably are still so many species yet to be
manage its biological resources. discovered.

PROMOTION OF RESEARCH
The Government will continue to collaborate
with academic and research institutions in
the conduct of flora and faunal research to
determine and identify new and unknown
species within the natural ecosystems of
Brunei Darussalam.

The Institute for Biodiversity and

Environmental Research (IBER) at the
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) aims to
become a centre of excellence for Images (Clockwise from left): Craspedotropis
biodiversity and environmental research, gretathunbergae, Leptomantis belalongensis and
through undertaking innovative research, Thismia inconspicua.
education and outreach activities in tropical
biodiversity and environmental studies. REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL
There are two research centres under IBER, EFFORTS
namely the Kuala Belalong Field Studies 7,800 hectare Tasek Merimbun Heritage
Centre (KBFSC) in Ulu Temburong National Park, a declared ASEAN Heritage Park in
Park, and the Botanical Research Centre in 1984 in Brunei Darussalam, is considered
the UBD campus. both a natural and cultural heritage. The
park, which includes catchments of small
The KBFSC is a well-known biodiversity rivers feeding into Brunei Darussalam’s
hotspot. Various species new to science largest lake, is not only a wildlife sanctuary
have been discovered there including the but also a recreational centre, and a venue
tree frog, Leptomantis belalongensis, three for research and education. This ASEAN
mychotererotrophic plants from the genus Heritage Park is also one of the biggest
Thismia, and a new caenogastropod wildlife sanctuaries in the country and
species, Craspedotropis gretathunbergae. therefore serves as nesting grounds to
International research collaborations, field several rare and endangered species. It is
courses and citizen science projects are one of Brunei Darussalam’s Important Bird
regularly held at KBFSC, thus increasing Areas (IBAs) as listed by BirdLife
opportunities for scientific discoveries. International.

A well-maintained permanent plot network at To further strengthen the country’s efforts in

KBFSC ensures the long-term monitoring of the protection and conservation of forest
growth and dynamics of the forest, enabling resources, Brunei Darussalam has pledged
the effects of climate change to be studied. 58% of its total land area for the Heart of
Borneo (HoB) Initiative. The HoB Initiative is
The new species discoveries highlight the a voluntary transboundary cooperation
value of untouched wildernesses like the Ulu initiative between the Government of Brunei
Temburong National Park and KBFSC as Darussalam, Republic of Indonesia
high conservation value areas, where there (Kalimantan) and Malaysia (Sabah and

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 93
Sarawak), to conserve the biodiversity that to the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, and
lies within the HoB for the benefit of the ratified the Centre’s Establishment
people who rely upon it. Agreement in 2008.
Brunei Darussalam has ratified the
Convention of Biological Diversity in 2008,
becoming its 191st party, through which the
Government could further strengthen
ongoing conservation efforts and strategies
on sustainable uses of biological and natural
resources in accordance with national and
international standards and commitments.

The country has also recently become a

party to the Asian Forest Cooperation
Image: Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park. Organization (AFoCO) in 2018. AFoCO aims
to strengthen regional forest cooperation,
This is done through the effective undertake projects and translate sound
management of forest resources and the forest policies and proven technologies into
conservation of a network of protected forest action with a mission to rehabilitate degraded
areas, productive forests and other forest land and to prevent deforestation and
sustainable land uses. forest degradation in the context of
Sustainable Forest Management as well as
In addition, taking the lead within ASEAN, under the broader scope of addressing the
Brunei Darussalam was the first to contribute impact of climate change.
to the ASEAN Biodiversity Fund, which
provides a sustainable financing mechanism

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A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

BruWILD
In addition to its ‘Saving Our Ocean’ project,
BruWILD undertakes two other key projects, namely
their educational outreach Eco-Pahlawan
programme and wildlife Report & Rescue project.

BruWILD’s Eco-Pahlawan programme engages

students, teachers and members of the public in
ensuring that the correct principles of biodiversity
conservation are communicated and practiced. To
date, BruWILD has engaged hundreds of students
around the country through various educational Image: BruWILD’s Eco-Pahlawan
roadshows, conferences, and youth group/activities. programme.
They hope to extend their work by collaborating with
regional partners for greater impact.

Images: BruWILD outreach programme and Eco-Pahlawan programme.

Meanwhile, BruWILD’s Report & Rescue Programme enables its trained members to carry
rescue and rehabilitation work on injured wildlife, many of which are threatened species (such
as slow loris and pangolin). BruWILD is hoping to operationalise the Sinaut Wildlife Rescue
Centre with the support of the Wildlife Division of the Ministry of Primary Resources and
Tourism in the next five years.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 95
Since the inception of BruWILD’s Report and Rescue programme in 2014, BruWILD has been
working with the Wildlife Division to end wildlife poaching in Brunei Darussalam. While they do
not have authority to apprehend any law breakers, they are able to mediate any reports of
wildlife poaching activities reported by members of the public through their hotline. BruWILD
will continue to support the Wildlife Division through its Report & Rescue programme.

Images: BruWILD Report and Rescue programme.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 96
Sustainable Development Goal 16
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development,
provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and
inclusive institutions at all levels
Brunei Darussalam, the ‘Abode of Peace’, is teachers irrespective of race and religion has
a country with a small population, strong always been part of Brunei Darussalam’s
religious values and a rich heritage of culture. Elders are always given preferential
tradition and culture. It is well-known as a treatment in public services and Teacher’s
peaceful country with its people of different Day is celebrated yearly with
races and religions living side-by-side in acknowledgement given to teachers for their
harmony, under the national philosophy of service and contribution to the society.
‘Malay Islamic Monarchy’. These traditions and norms strengthen social
harmony, promote friendship and foster
The Government continues to preserve understanding amongst communities in the
harmony and prosperity among its people, country.
including by protecting their basic rights and
securing access to basic needs. The PROTECTION FROM HARM AND
Government also practises transparent, fair INJUSTICE
and non-discriminatory policies. In Brunei Brunei Darussalam strongly upholds the
Darussalam, social harmony is due to strong fundamental principles of human rights. The
social values emanating from the importance Government continues to promote and
placed upon family institutions, community protect human rights in the country, through
support and mutual respect, as well as strong an inter-agency consultative mechanism in
foundation of faith and religion. cooperation with various non-governmental
organisations (NGOs) as partners.
Social inclusiveness is inherent in Brunei
Darussalam’s society. Participation of all The laws of Brunei Darussalam follow a
walks of life can be seen in various national dual16 legal system where all persons are
events and festivities, for instance Bandarku viewed and treated as equals. The laws are
Ceria and the tradition of ‘Open House’ visits enacted to protect the society against all
during cultural celebrations. The celebration forms of harm and injustice. Several
of the National Family Day since its inception legislative measures have also been taken to
in 2012 has also focused on the pivotal role promote and further strengthen the
of family institutions in maintaining social protection of human rights in the country.
harmony and integration. Intermarriages
between people of different races are In addition to the dual penal codes, several
historically common in Brunei Darussalam laws and legislations have been established
dating as far back as the 14th century15. towards protecting the vulnerable,
Moreover, high respect for the elders and preventing violence as well as addressing

15
The earliest record of inter-racial marriage in Brunei Darussalam was between Princess Ratna Dewi, daughter of Sultan
Muhammad Shah of Brunei Darussalam and Ong Sum Ping from China.
16
The Civil Court and the Syariah Court.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 97
human trafficking and smuggling, such as The Syariah Court in May 2018 commenced
the Women and Girls Protection Act (Cap. the implementation of the Sulh or
120); Islamic Family Law Act (Cap. 217); reconciliation process for family cases as a
Married Women Act (Cap. 190); Children form of alternative dispute resolution that is
and Young Persons Act (Cap. 219); private, less formal and speedier than court
Prevention of People Smuggling Order 2019; litigation. The implementation of the Sulh has
and Anti-Trafficking in Persons Order 2019. shown positive results, with 61% of cases
settled through the Majlis Sulh in 2018.
Government initiatives to prevent violence,
especially domestic violence, are supported While the mediation process remains
by a number of charitable and welfare NGOs, voluntary in Brunei Darussalam, the civil
whereas protection and support for victims of courts have seen an increase in the number
violence are provided primarily by the of cases being mediated before accredited
Government through the Ministry of Culture, mediators where in 2019, a total of 14 cases
Youth and Sports (MCYS). have been referred for mediation in the High
Court, with two out of three cases having
Despite being one of many countries with been successfully mediated.
laws on the death penalty, there has been a
de facto moratorium on its execution in ENSURING THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
Brunei Darussalam. The Government Brunei Darussalam recognises children as a
strongly believes that every individual should valuable asset to the country and their
be given the opportunity to repent and the vulnerability to manifestations of socio-
criminal justice system works to ensure that economic problems and violence. As such,
criminals are afforded a chance to the Special Committee on Family
rehabilitate through a comprehensive in-care Institutions, Women and Children has
and after care system. approved the National Plan of Action on
Children which has two strategic focus:
Law enforcement measures have continued i) To ensure policies and legislations that
to be strengthened, notwithstanding the low meet the needs of the children are in
crime rate in the country. Between 2014 and place; and
2017, there was a decrease of 17.1% from ii) To improve the effectiveness and
4,128 to 3,424 criminal cases handled by the efficiency of social services for children.
Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF). The
tradition of upholding strong family This demonstrates the country’s commitment
institutions and a holistic education system to formulating and implementing focused
provides important early interventions in strategies and interventions on improving the
mitigating crimes in Brunei Darussalam. rights of the child. The rights of the child are
enforced through various legislations
The ability to access justice is a crucial applicable to all citizens and residents of the
component of securing peaceful, just and country. The amendment to Section 103 of
inclusive societies where effective and the Employment Order 2009 prohibits
accountable institutions govern at all levels. children from being employed in any
industrial undertaking17.

17
“In an industrial undertaking or in an undertaking which is an industrial undertaking”

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Meanwhile, the Penal Code (Cap. 22) Protection (NFCP), which is expected to be
provides protection for children against any completed in July 2020. Activities and
sexual exploitations and was further progress under the NFCP will be presented
amended in 2017 to broaden the definition of to the Special Committee on Family
rape, and to enhance penalties and Institutions, Women and Children under the
punishments for various offences against a National Council on Social Issues.
woman or children under 14 years of age.
Key outputs under the NFCP are expected to
As the lead agency on the Convention on the be:
Rights of the Child, the MCYS works closely i) The production of evidence-based
with other government agencies, including assessment tools, which include sector-
the RBPF, Ministry of Health (MOH), and specific screening guidelines and a child
Ministry of Education (MOE), to ensure all abuse reporting guideline, that can be
complaints received, including of child used by relevant agencies involved in
abuse, are addressed immediately and child protection; and
effectively. The Government has also set up ii) A national database or Register of
hotlines as a form of direct communication Children and Young Persons in Need of
with the public, specifically children. Protection, which will maintain the
records of those who need or may need
Since 2006, the Government has put in place protection. This register will facilitate
‘Talian Kebajikan 141’, a public hotline to inter-agency monitoring of such
provide information and receive complaints individuals and ensure the timely
about social issues as well as provide administration of necessary
immediate advice by trained officials. The interventions.
calls are registered in accordance with the
requirements of Child Helpline International. PREVENTION OF TRAFFICKING IN
In 2019, the MCYS, together with PERSONS
telecommunications provider TelBru (now Trafficking in Persons (TIPs) is a grave
known as Imagine), launched another hotline violation of human rights, in which women
intended specifically for children called and children are the most vulnerable victims.
‘Talian ANAK 121’, with the tagline ‘Kami
Mendangar’ (‘We are listening’). ‘Talian The Government has enacted various
ANAK 121’ aims to provide a safe platform legislations such as the Prevention of People
for children to speak, express their feelings Smuggling Order 2019, Anti-Trafficking in
and report issues anonymously and without Persons Order 2019 as well as the Women
fear. Through this system, urgent cases will and Girls Protection Act (Cap. 120) to ensure
be immediately forwarded to and urgently the promotion and protection of human
handled by specific parties. Since its launch rights, especially women and children. To
in October 2019, the hotline has received finance the cost of repatriation of smuggled
approximately 9,867 calls (as of March persons and trafficked persons or such other
2020). purposes, Brunei Darussalam has also
established the ‘Anti-Trafficking in Persons
In late 2019, to further strengthen national Fund’.
inter-agency collaboration on child
protection, Brunei Darussalam began In recent years, the Government has made
formulating a National Framework on Child progress in its anti-trafficking law

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 99
enforcement efforts by enhancing the are also used to screen and identify potential
capacity of prosecutors and law enforcement human trafficking victims in operations with
agencies through inter-agency coordination, suspected TIPs elements.
regional and international training
programmes and workshops, including those Brunei Darussalam has continued its
organised by ASEAN, as well as technical prevention efforts through training
assistance. programmes for labour and immigration
officials as well as NGOs. Awareness
The Human Trafficking Investigation Unit campaigns have been conducted on
(HTU) of the RBPF has increased its efforts offences and penalties under immigration,
by screening for human trafficking indicators passports, labour trafficking and smuggling
in cases involving prostitution, unpaid of persons related laws.
wages, runaway workers, or labour abuse.
The HTU also receives referral cases from The MCYS continues its role in the promotion
other agencies on potential cases of TIPs. and protection of women and children rights
Prosecutions for non-trafficking offences, by providing shelter and care to victims of
such as human smuggling or labour TIPs. Plans are underway for the
violations and offences under the Women development of a new shelter, a place of
and Girls Protection Act (Cap. 120), came as safety, due to be completed in 2021. This
a result of HTU investigations. shelter will emphasise a home environment
and aim to provide victims of abuse and
To protect victims of TIPs, Brunei those in need of protection with a greater
Darussalam has expanded victim protection feeling of safety, security and home comfort.
measures during judicial proceedings and
carried out victim screening procedures as Given the gravity of TIPs’ issues, Brunei
well as strengthened investigations into Darussalam has been actively engaged in
alleged labour abuses that amount to international efforts in addressing this global
trafficking. concern. Brunei Darussalam has been
collaborating with the UN Office on Drugs
In 2016, the country introduced a legislative and Crime (UNODC) and participated in
amendment to Section 236B of the Criminal various regional as well as international
Procedure Code which allows victims to meetings relating to issues concerning
provide evidence through live video or live people smuggling, TIPs and transnational
television link in any inquiry, trial, appeal or crime.
proceedings if the court is satisfied that it is
expedient in the interest of justice. Five Brunei Darussalam has ratified the ASEAN
Technology Courts were set up at a cost of Convention Against Trafficking in Persons,
B$4.5 million that are equipped with a Especially Women and Children, which
computer system as well as audio-visual came into force for Brunei Darussalam on 24
equipment, including a computer based April 2020. On 14 November 2017, Brunei
recording facility which allows oral testimony Darussalam signed the ASEAN Consensus
to be digitally recorded. Such facilities afford on the Protection and Promotion of the
due protection to trafficking victims whilst Rights of Migrant Workers. In 2020, Brunei
also encouraging them to testify against Darussalam has acceded to the United
traffickers. Standardised interview guidelines Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and
Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 100
Women and Children, supplementing the to assist them to travel abroad and return to
United Nations Convention Against the country. The Government ensures
Transnational Organized Crime. inclusive application of the Births and Deaths
Registration Act (Cap. 79), which provides
In promoting human rights within the regional that all children, including stateless children,
context, Brunei Darussalam provides annual who are born in the territory should have their
contributions to the ASEAN births registered and that relevant statistics
Intergovernmental Commission on Human are kept.
Rights (AICHR) Fund and contributes to the
development of AICHR Thematic Studies Relevant authorities in Brunei Darussalam
including on legal aid. Brunei Darussalam is are further committed to carry out country-
currently working with other ASEAN Member wide awareness campaigns relating to birth
States on Thematic Studies on the Right to and death registration, as well as
Education, Right to Peace, the Right to Life immigration and nationality matters.
and Juvenile Justice. Awareness programmes on the Births and
Deaths Registration Act (Cap. 79) and its
PROVISION OF LEGAL IDENTITY Regulations to the Heads of Mukims and
Brunei Darussalam has a policy of single Chiefs of Villages were recently implemented
nationality and does not recognise dual in 2018 and early 2020.
nationality. It also does not permit cessation
of Bruneian nationality if the person has no PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS
other national status. The Births and Deaths Brunei Darussalam recognises the
Registration Act (Cap. 79) and the National importance of effective, accountable and
Registration Act (Cap. 19), which require the transparent institutions towards its
registration of all persons within a development as well as achievement of the
predetermined period, provide the necessary 2030 Agenda. Service delivery, both in the
measures for the Government in the public and private sector, is one of the key
provision of legal identity. focus areas in its Wawasan Brunei 2035.

The Brunei Nationality Act (Cap. 15) In strengthening its efforts towards
provides the acquisition for either a Bruneian combating corruption and bribery, the
father or mother to obtain nationality for their Prevention of Corruption Act was revised in
children. The said Act outlines that non- 2019. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB),
nationals, including stateless people, who established back in 1982, enforces the said
are permanent residents, can be naturalised enactment. The ACB has taken steps to
subject to the fulfilment of certain criteria, continuously improve skills and capacity
including period of domiciliation, fluency in building of its officers in the areas of
Malay Language and knowledge of Bruneian prevention and investigation of corruption
culture and tradition. Between 2015 and cases and offences which fall under the said
2019, 1,926 persons were granted Act. The trainings also include cross-border
citizenship. corruption investigations using the latest
methods and best practices on effective
The Government issues its stateless methodologies in eradicating corruption and
residents, including those with permanent prevention strategies. The Penal Code was
resident status, with a Certificate of Identity amended in October 2018 to introduce
higher penalties for criminal breach of trust.

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 101
Brunei Darussalam became a State Party to be delivered, allowing the public to know
when it signed the United Nations clearly and accurately the service quality
Convention against Corruption in 2003 and rendered by that particular department.
ratified the Convention in December 2008.
The provision of laws, such as Mutual Legal Additionally, the Public Sector Performance
Assistance in Criminal Matters Order 2005 Grading Programme is an instrument to
and Criminal Asset Recovery Order 2012, assess and measure a Civil Service
enhances and facilitates the cooperation of Organisation’s performance level as one of
investigations undertaken with the the efforts towards improvement, efficiency,
assistance of foreign countries to track performance efficacy, productivity and
offenders and the procurement of bribes quality of service delivery.
brought and concealed abroad. The Bureau
is also taking steps to strengthen bilateral The Government has also introduced a
relations with anti-corruption agencies in platform for the public to provide feedback on
neighbouring countries through exchange of the quality of service delivery. The Customer
information and assistance in relation to Satisfaction Survey in the Public Sector
corruption including money laundering and (Kajian Selidik Tumpuan Pelanggan - KSTP)
proceeds of crimes of corruption. acts as a check and balance in order to
ensure that the public perspectives on the
These efforts, among others, have led to an effectiveness of service delivery are
improvement in Brunei Darussalam’s consistent with that of government agencies.
rankings in Transparency International’s
Corruption Perception Index (CPI) in 2019,
whereby it jumped from the 41st rank in 2016
to the 35th rank in 2019 and was the 2nd least
corrupt nation in ASEAN.

Government expenditure for ministries and

departments are published annually,
whereby budget proposals are deliberated
publicly in the annual Legislative Council
meetings. National policies and development
Image: The KSTP done electronically at one of
plans are also discussed during those
the government service counters.
meetings.
The 34 government agencies which have
Towards fulfilling the public needs for its
been selected for the purposes of carrying
services, the Government implements the
out the KSTP are mainly agencies which
Client’s Charter (Tekad Pemedulian Orang
frequently provide services to the general
Ramai - TPOR), which is one of the main
public. Continuous biannual monitoring is
strategies intended to facilitate ministries and
carried out two-fold by the identified
departments to improve the quality of their
agencies and by the MSD.
service delivery. Monitored by the
Management Services Department (MSD) of
The Government through the MSD provides
the Prime Minister’s Office, TPOR is a
the public with several platforms to submit
statement or a written commitment by a
their complaints and grievances with regards
department of the service/product standard

Brunei Darussalam’s Voluntary National Review Report at the 2020 United Nations High-Level Political Forum | 102
to the provision of public services by all In 2015, the Online Public Service
government agencies, which will be Commission Recruitment System (PSCR)
addressed professionally by the said was introduced, which replaced the civil
division. service information system used since 1999.
The PSCR allows the Public Service
Efficient provision of services to the public is Commission to conduct recruitment of
also further enhanced through the jobseekers from the intial stage to the final
implementation of ‘Talian Darussalam 123’ process and facilitates the collection,
(TD123) by the E-Government National consolidation and evaluation of data
Centre. TD123 functions as an all-purpose obtained for processing. For jobseekers, the
national call centre facility which centralises PSCR facilitates searching and filtering of
and directs public complaints, inquiries and advertised vacancies and enables users to
requests for information onto one main conduct various actions online, such as
platform, which enables such complaints and updating profiles, submitting job applications,
concerns to be efficiently addressed to the tracking and checking application status, and
appropriate source. Enabling the public to receiving alerts about tests, interviews and
interact directly or otherwise with results of job applications.
government agencies ensures effective
information dissemination and guarantees
that citizens are receiving credible
information.

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Sustainable Development Goal 17
Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the
Global Partnership for Sustainable Development
Brunei Darussalam recognises the covered collaboration that contributed
complexity of the 2030 Agenda and the need towards SDGs.
for heightened commitment to collaboration
and partnership towards achieving the For instance, following identification of
SDGs, building upon its existing cooperation complementarities between ASEAN
both bilaterally and multilaterally. Community Vision 2025 and United Nations
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
It also recognises that governments alone in 2017, ASEAN has produced the
cannot ensure the successful achievement Complementarities Roadmap, which will
of the SDGs and that a multi-stakeholder serve as the guideline for further advancing
approach will be required. Thus, while the Complementarities Initiative between the
Government has led the journey towards 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
2030, this has been complemented by the and the ASEAN Community Vision 2025
active involvement by non-governmental including enhancing its cooperation with its
stakeholders. Dialogue Partners and external parties. The
establishment of the ASEAN Centre for
COLLABORATION FOR MUTUAL Sustainable Development Studies and
BENEFIT Dialogue in Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand
The Government implements bilateral and will further contribute to ASEAN’s efforts to
multilateral cooperation on the basis of promote sustainable studies and
friendship, mutual respect and peaceful co- cooperation, and will provide institutional
existence, by establishing diplomatic support for the coordination of the
relations with all friendly nations. It continues implementation of the Complementarities
to promote and strengthen these Roadmap through project collaboration with
cooperations in various fields through the various centres and institutions around the
country's participation in sub-regional, region.
regional and international organisations.
Brunei Darussalam held the chairmanship of
Examples of these regional and international ASEAN in 2013, with the theme ‘Our People,
platforms include the Association of South Our Future Together’. During this
East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Asia Pacific chairmanship, the country promoted the
Economic Cooperation (APEC), The collective commitment of the people, bound
Commonwealth, Organization of the Islamic together through the spirit of unity and
Cooperation (OIC) and The Standing diversity, to bring forward an ASEAN
Committee for Economic and Commercial community that is politically cohesive,
Cooperation of the OIC (OIC COMCEC), UN economically integrated and socially
Economic and Social Commission for Asia responsible. In that year, Brunei Darussalam
and the Pacific, all of which have extensively issued the 2013 Bandar Seri Begawan
Declaration on Youth Volunteerism and

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Entrepreneurship, which called for the active SDGs’ and ‘Environmental Sustainability and
involvement of the youth and young Management’. The invitation was extended
professionals in volunteerism and to several countries such as Cook Islands,
entrepreneurship programmes. Republic of Fiji, Republic of Kiribati, Republic
of Maldives, Niue, Independent State of
During its chairmanship of ASEAN in 2021, Papua New Guinea, Independent State of
Brunei Darussalam will place emphasis on Samoa, Solomon Islands, Kingdom of
improving the well-being and livelihoods of Tonga, Tuvalu and Republic of Vanuatu.
the ASEAN peoples and equip them with the
ability to effectively face current and future COMMITMENT TO OPEN TRADE
challenges, including the impact of the Brunei Darussalam subscribes to pursuing
COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, Brunei free trade policies aimed at promoting
Darussalam will continue to work with other sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
ASEAN Member States and its external This is reflected in the country’s commitment
partners in advancing cooperation in areas of to strengthening the rules-based,
mutual interests that are aimed at ensuring transparent, non-discriminatory, open, and
peace, security and prosperity in the region. inclusive multilateral trading system as
enshrined in the principles and values of the
In the context of OIC-COMCEC, Brunei World Trade Organization.
Darussalam has been country partners for
various capacity building projects such as The country is an active participant in
with Malaysia for its project to enhance the regional economic forums to advance
capacity of community-based tourism multilateral trade. Within the framework of
workforce with other partners, namely the ASEAN, Brunei Darussalam continues to
Republic of The Gambia, Republic of work closely with ASEAN Member States to
Indonesia, Republic of Mali, Republic of promote regional trade liberalisation and
Tunisia and Republic of Yemen, and the facilitation, including through ASEAN Free
project entitled ‘Improving Income of Small Trade Agreements (FTAs) with its Dialogue
and Medium Scale Farmers in the OIC Partners. In total, Brunei Darussalam is a
Member States Through Reducing Losses of signatory to nine FTAs which include one
Livestock Production’ implemented by bilateral FTA, two plurilaterals and six
Republic of Indonesia in partnership with regional FTAs.
Brunei Darussalam, Arab Republic of Egypt,
Malaysia and Republic of Sudan. One FTA that is aimed for signing at the end
of 2020 is the ASEAN-driven Regional
The Government further actively extends Comprehensive Economic Partnership . With
technical assistance overseas in the first round of negotiations launched in
collaboration with international agencies, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam,
such as with the Commonwealth Secretariat in 2013, the FTA, finalised in 2019, is a
on the Brunei Darussalam Third Country modern, comprehensive, high-quality and
Training Programme (BDTCTP). Through mutually beneficial economic partnership
the BDTCTP, it has extended technical agreement, which would build upon existing
assistance to developing countries of the economic linkages amongst participating
Commonwealth since 2015 which covers countries.
multiple projects such as ‘Performance
Management for Effective Implementation of

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Another plurilateral agreement that Brunei and African countries, such as the ‘Brunei
Darussalam is working to ratify is the Darussalam Government Scholarship for
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement Foreign Students tenable in Brunei
for Trans-Pacific Partnership. This Darussalam’, ‘Master in Public Policy and
agreement is a comprehensive and Management Scholarship’, and ‘Brunei
ambitious 21st century free trade agreement Darussalam Scholarship on Enhancing
that aims to facilitate trade and strengthen Professional Communication Skills’.
trading regimes in the Asia Pacific region.
WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH
Under the APEC forum, Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Darussalam welcomes and supports
as a member economy, is also supporting the efforts of other stakeholders, such as
efforts that will ensure greater prosperity for non-governmental organisations and the
the people of the region by promoting private sector, not just towards achieving the
balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative SDGs, but also for the development and
and secure growth and by accelerating prosperity of the country.
regional economic integration. Such support
includes the work to achieve the Bogor Goals
through trade and investment liberalisation,
business facilitation and sectoral activities,
underpinned by policy dialogues and
economic and technical cooperation.

FINANCING FOR DEVELOPMENT

In providing assistance to other countries in
their development journey, Brunei
Darussalam contributes to, among others,
the United Nations Relief and Works Agency Image: Techstars Startup Weekend Brunei on the
for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. SDGs (2018).
Brunei Darussalam, as a member of the
International Monetary Fund, has also These stakeholders, especially the youth,
agreed to a financing plan to mobilise have been active in advocating and
resources for the Fund’s share of debt relief addressing issues directly relevant to the
for the Federal Republic of Somalia in 2019. SDGs, such as sustainable development,
poverty, inclusitivity and the important role of
The Government offers scholarships to volunteerism spirit and youth.
students from various Least Developed
Countries, Small Island Developing States

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A WHOLE OF NATION APPROACH

MyActionForSDGs
MyActionForSDGs, led by Nurul Hadina Haji Alias as the ASEAN
MY World 2030 Advocate in Brunei Darussalam, is an awareness
campaign that aims to inspire individuals, organisations and the
local community to start taking action for the SDGs. It is supported
by the UN SDGs Action Campaign, UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub
and UN Volunteers Asia-Pacific. The campaign aims to create a
positive change in society towards the SDGs, through increasing
awareness of its importance, localising and unifying community
action supporting SDGs and connecting local supporters with the
Global Day of Action.

Between June and September 2018, people living in Brunei

Darussalam voted for six of the SDGs that they are most
concerned about through the online and offline ASEAN MY World Image: Nurul Hadina Haji
2030 survey. The votes collected mostly reflected the youth’s Alias, the ASEAN MY World
concerns as ages 16 – 30 made up 90.3% of the total 515 votes. 2030 Advocate for Brunei
Darussalam.
From these results, it can be deduced that 75.1% chose Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being
as their main priority, followed by 72.8% for Goal 4: Quality Education and 55.1% for Goal 8:
Decent Work and Economic Growth. These three SDGs mirror the three goals of Wawasan
Brunei 2035. The survey found that only 30% was concerned about Goal 13: Climate Action,
14.4% for Goal 14: Life Below Water and 15.7% for Goal 15: Life on Land despite many visible
youth NGOs advocating for these global goals.
MyActionForSDGs calls on
the youth, civil society and
NGOs to take up this active
partnership with the aim of
raising awareness on the
importance of youth
engagement with individuals,
organisations and small
businesses to accelerate
action towards the
achievement of the SDGs in
Brunei Darussalam.
Image: Awareness programme by MyActionForSDGs.

MyActionForSDGs will continue to raise awareness about the importance of the SDGs,
increasing the scope of partnership to both businesses and government sector, using the
ASEAN MY World 2030 survey as a basis for further quantitative and qualitative research to
find out which goals should be prioritised for implementation by all stakeholders. It also plans

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to leverage on youth organisations to be efficient intermediaries between policy-makers and
young people.

Brunei Youth Council

One of the main aims and objectives of Brunei Youth Council (BYC) is to unite all youth and
welfare bodies in Brunei Darussalam into one huge and solid council so that it can promote the
economic, social, cultural, physical, mental and spiritual development of Bruneian youth and
instill in them a sense of national identity and a spirit of dedicated, responsible and useful youth
citizens.

To form a collective voice for the youth, the BYC in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture,
Youth and Sports (MCYS), organised the National Youth Congress 2019, which gathered
youth from various organisations and sectors to discuss issues related to youth, such as climate
change and employment. During the congress, youth engaged directly in dialogue with cabinet
ministers and policymakers. A joint youth statement and resolution was produced, which forms
the basis for an updated National Youth Policy aimed at shaping a brighter future for the nation.
The BYC continues to actively engage with other stakeholders in the country, such as with the
MCYS and the Ministry of Health (MOH) on programmes to address poverty and health issues.

WeCare | KamiPrihatin
Established in 2016, WeCare | KamiPrihatin is a non-governmental organisation
that aims to provide humanitarian aid by responding to emergency crisis or
appeals both locally and internationally and providing relief efforts and
assistance to the victims of humanitarian issues.

Since its launch, WeCare | KamiPrihatin has successfully executed more than 25 projects
ranging from fundraisers, donation drives, local emergency relief and international aid. In
addition to local humanitarian projects, WeCare | KamiPrihatin has also carried out a number
of fundraisers for international humanitarian crisis through collaboration with other NGO
partners such as Hand4Hand, Shafaq Sham, Hayat Yolu of Turkey and Human Initiative of
Indonesia:

 Rohingya (2017): 2600 food packs, 51

shelters, 60 water wells
 Untukmu Syria (2018): 2000 food packs,
1500 education packs, 120 pairs of shoes
 Iftar 4 Gaza (2018, 2019): 15860 Iftar
packs
 Lombok, Indonesia (2018): 325 foodpacks,
180 hygiene kits, 44 temporary housing
 Syrian Warm Winter (2018, 2019): 1000
food packs, 200 winter bags
 Sulawesi, Indonesia (2018): 513 family food
packs and hygiene kits, 42 temporary Image: Members of WeCare in Republic of
housing. Turkey.

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Conclusion
Brunei Darussalam recognises that comprehensive and centralised national
achieving sustainable development requires welfare system that will ensure assistance is
concerted efforts, both from the Government given to those who are in need.
and non-government stakeholders.
Underpinning such efforts is a requirement to In order to have a complete understanding of
have a dynamic and sustainable economic the country’s progress in achieving the 2030
growth that is envisioned in its Wawasan Agenda, it will seek to further identify gaps in
Brunei 2035. Whilst the country’s and availability of its SDGs data and
diversification initiatives have begun to bear strengthen mechanisms for monitoring and
fruit, there is a need to accelerate the growth reporting progress for the SDGs. Brunei
of its Non-oil and Gas Sector. This Darussalam looks forward to learning and
necessitates further development of the benefiting from other countries’ experiences
country’s private sector by encouraging more in their implementation of the SDGs. The
innovative entrepreneurs and continuing to Government further welcomes continued
attract FDI in its priority sectors. collaboration, including technical assistance
and capacity building programmes, that will
The Government reaffirms its commitment to allow the strengthening of its human
increase the economic empowerment and resources and supporting infrastructures
participation of all segments of the society towards achieving the SDGs.
including the youth, women, differently abled
and the disadvantaged. Boosting modern This VNR report reflects the country’s efforts
infrastructures such as quality roads, in improving the lives of its citizens as well as
electricity and telecommunication are in contributing to global partnerships for
necessary enablers to economic and social mutual benefit. Building on its success thus
growth. In addition, accelerating initiatives to far, Brunei Darussalam is committed to make
build a skilful workforce is very important, not further progress in the 17 SDGs over the next
only to match the industry needs, but also for decade, in line with its efforts towards
the population to be future ready particularly achieving Wawasan Brunei 2035. From a
in the context of the 4th Industrial Revolution broader perspective, Brunei Darussalam
and digital economy. recognises the SDGs as people-oriented,
inclusive and comprehensive, which given
Brunei Darussalam continues to undertake their complexity and ambitiousness, require
efforts to enhance the health and welfare of collective efforts and cooperation at the
its citizens, through the further strengthening regional and international level.
of its national health system and service in a
coordinated and cohesive manner as There are common external factors that may
outlined in the Ministry of Health’s Strategic impede the progress in achieving the SDGs,
Plan (2019-2023). At the same time, it will such as the impact of the COVID-19
continue to seize opportunities to be pandemic, which have made such
innovative in the delivery of healthcare and collaboration more important than ever. In
protection of public health, optimising this regard, the Government remains
resources and leveraging on technology and committed to be a part of the global
smart partnership. partnership for development and supports
cooperation for the benefit for all.
The Sistem Kebajikan Negara, expected to
be operational by July this year, will create a

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MINISTRY OF FINANCE AND ECONOMY
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

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