BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam called for strategic and pragmatic measures to address national challenges as the 22nd session of the Legislative Council (LegCo) opened for the 2026 term on Thursday (March 12).
Delivering the titah at the Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the 22nd LegCo session at the LegCo building at Jalan Dewan Majlis, the Ruler emphasised that the annual sitting of the LegCo should serve not merely as a formal gathering, but as an important platform for constructive dialogue and the discussion of real issues affecting the nation and its people.
Sultan Hassanal said the dialogue and consultative approach involving ministries and government departments should be fully utilised to ensure the concerns of the public are heard and addressed effectively.
The monarch also highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant to global geopolitical developments and their impact on economic stability.
Brunei Darussalam, the Ruler noted, is not immune to such external pressures, particularly when global developments affect commodity prices that contribute to national revenue.
In this regard, LegCo members were urged to work closely with the government in addressing uncertainties and ensuring economic resilience.
Sultan Hassanal also underscored the need for more proactive implementation of development strategies aligned with the goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035, including exploring strategic investments and new sectors capable of generating economic growth and strengthening the government’s fiscal position.
While pursuing progress, the Ruler stressed the importance of prudent spending and prioritising high-impact initiatives that enhance the country’s long-term resilience.
New approaches are also needed to create a conducive ecosystem that strengthens the role of the private sector, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as key contributors to economic development.
From the perspective of infrastructure and public facilities, the monarch called for continued efforts to explore improvements in public transport services to ensure they are safer and of higher quality.
Sultan Hassanal also expressed sympathy over a recent incident that claimed the lives of two cyclists, urging relevant authorities, particularly the National Road Safety Council, to examine not only legislative and enforcement aspects but also the need for safer infrastructure.
In addition, the Ruler reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening a culture of integrity, professionalism and excellence across all sectors.
Efforts to combat corruption and abuse of power will continue to be intensified, including within both the public and private sectors, particularly in areas involving service delivery and enforcement.
Sultan Hassanal warned that corruption must not be allowed to take root as it could threaten national stability and governance.
Concluding the titah, the monarch expressed hope that Legislative Council members would deliberate on strategic issues and generate practical, innovative ideas aligned with the country’s current needs.
Sultan Hassanal also called on members to work hand in hand with the government in seeking solutions to the challenges faced by the nation and society, with the shared aim of building a progressive country with a forward-looking vision. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
