BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Dec 15 (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): Brunei ruler Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has announced that Brunei will move into the Endemic Phase under the National Covid-19 Recovery Framework on Wednesday (Dec 15).
In delivering the 8pm titah over Radio Television Brunei (RTB) on Saturday night, the monarch said, “Taking into account the current situation and accepting the reality of the new normal, it is time for us to reduce the disturbance to our way of life and continue on the path towards the Almighty.
“In this phase,” the monarch said, “a drop or increase in cases is not guaranteed. But it also does not mean we won’t be successful. What is certain is the expectation of us to cooperate and advance cautiously in the midst of new norms.”
The ruler also expressed hopes that the populace would assume social responsibilities and adhere to measures put in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Although the Endemic Phase will allow people to carry out their daily routines largely uninterrupted, it remains important to observe the standard operating procedures (SOPs).
His Majesty said, “Undoubtedly, anxiety and concern on the outbreak will still linger, which is why we must not be complacent; we have to remain vigilant. The decision to forge a life in the new normal came from various studies, scientific analyses and data on Covid-19.”
The monarch added that being in the Endemic Phase does not mean letting go of healthcare for the infected. Instead, close monitoring of “critical cases will continue to be carried out”.
“As a nation with a strong foothold on Islamic teachings, we fulfil our responsibilities through efforts and reliance on Allah the Almighty. Both are crucial in attaining success,” the monarch said.
Sultan Hassanal acknowledged that it is difficult to predict the trend of a pandemic. However, having followed the COVID-19 developments and seeing daily declines in new cases should “bring us hope”.
The monarch added, “I understand that the outbreak and its effects to health remain a concern; and it should never be taken lightly for as long as the virus exists. Nonetheless, I am grateful for the cooperation and determination shown by citizens and residents of the Sultanate in tackling the outbreak together.
“The effects of the pandemic continue to be felt. The longer the restrictive measures are in place, the tougher they are to shoulder. Such restrictions, for instance, led to us being nearly cut off from mosques, suraus and religious halls; likewise for schools and learning centres. Economic activities, businesses and public services were not spared from these measures either.”
“In short,” His Majesty said, “no one escaped the consequences. These restrictions were implemented during a time of pressing need to stop the spread of the virus.”
The monarch said, “Trends and statistics from the nation and the world over suggest that the pandemic will not be completely eliminated in the near future. But these are predictions."
As the nation prepares to shift to the new normal, “we must not forget those whose lives have been lost to the virus”.
The monarch also extended appreciation to healthcare workers, public servants, the Royal Brunei Police Force, Royal Brunei Armed Forces and volunteers for their contributions, as well as “everyone in the country who has lent a hand in containing the virus”.
His Majesty concluded the titah by saying: “Let us pray and that our decision to move to the Endemic Phase will receive blessings.” - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
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