BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, stressed that the Government’s priority is to ensure strategic reserves, particularly petroleum fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders, are maintained to meet daily needs.
The Ruler made the remarks in his titah during the Audience and Investiture Ceremony held in conjunction with the monarch’s 80th birthday celebration.
Sultan Hassanal began the titah by praising Allah the Almighty for His abundant blessings, which enabled the nation to gather in peace and harmony to celebrate the occasion.
The monarch also expressed appreciation to all parties, both within the country and abroad, who extended greetings and well wishes to His Majesty and members of the Royal Family in conjunction with the celebration.
“Indeed, reaching the age of 80 is a tremendous blessing. Only Allah the Almighty knows the wisdom behind it. Over nearly six decades of carrying this trust, my people and I have journeyed through many challenges and milestones that have shaped this nation into what it is today. Together, we have witnessed the passage of time – from the era of basic development to modernisation.”
However, Sultan Hassanal added that one thing has remained unchanged: trust, loyalty and unity have always been the backbone of the nation.
“If we aspire to become a strong nation, our strength should not be measured by the prosperity we enjoy, but by our sincerity in remaining united in the face of every challenge.”
The Ruler stressed that there would be no compromise with any party seeking to undermine the unity of the people, adding that there is no place in Brunei for corruption and dishonesty as such practices threaten the nation’s well-being and progress.
Sultan Hassanal also expressed hope that the younger generation would play a more meaningful role, not merely as observers of change or users of technologies created by others, but as innovators, thinkers and visionary leaders.
In this regard, the monarch said the Government will continue to support young people seeking to venture into and expand entrepreneurship across all sectors.
Among the initiatives available are micro-financing facilities provided by local banks, particularly Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), Perbadanan TAIB and Bank Usahawan.
“Insya Allah, I will continue to lead the nation towards achieving Brunei Vision 2035, which promises a nation that is advanced, sustainable and resilient, with the unwavering support of all.”
The Ruler also touched on current developments and challenges faced by the country, noting that Brunei remains in a stable position in terms of energy supply despite being affected by global uncertainties.
Hence, Sultan Hassanal highlighted the Government’s priority in ensuring strategic reserves to meet daily needs. This approach also requires everyone’s responsibility, particularly in using energy resources wisely and efficiently.
At the same time, the monarch said efforts to diversify the economy have shown encouraging results, with the non-oil and gas sector contributing more than half of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
From a social perspective, His highlighted the Government’s collaboration with BIBD through Project Teduh, which utilised BIBD’s business zakat funds to build homes for vulnerable groups.
Sultan Hassanal said public-private partnerships such as these are highly encouraged to improve the quality of life of those in need.
In safeguarding public safety, the monarch also consented to the Disaster Management Strategic Policy Framework.
The framework aims to further strengthen disaster management through risk management and an integrated multi-agency approach in responding to emergency situations.
Although many achievements have been made, the Ruler noted that the nation’s fiscal challenges continue to require close and sustained attention.
The Ruler’s Government will continue to implement responsible fiscal measures, including broadening non-oil and gas revenue sources, managing public expenditure prudently, strengthening business facilitation and ensuring government processes remain investment-friendly.
In this regard, Sultan Hassanal expressed confidence in the important role of each Coordinating Minister in ensuring that gaps and obstacles are effectively addressed.
The year 2027 will witness two significant national events that complement one another – the celebration of the Ruler’s Diamond Jubilee and Visit Brunei Year.
“Let us continue to pray that Allah the Almighty will continue to bestow His mercy upon us and our nation so that we may remain forever in peace and prosperity.”
Sultan Hassanal concluded his titah by expressing appreciation to all citizens and residents, members of the civil service, security forces and private sector, both within the country and abroad, for their contributions to the nation.
The monarch also extended appreciation to members of the National and District Celebration Committees for their dedication and service in ensuring the success of this year’s celebrations. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
