BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei has called for stronger cross-border cooperation to attract quality investments, strengthen regional supply chains and create jobs across Borneo.
Deputy Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Datin Seri Paduka Tutiaty Abdul Wahab said regional collaboration was essential to unlocking Borneo’s economic potential amid global uncertainty and intensifying competition for investment.
Delivering the keynote address at the Borneo Business Roundtable 2026 at Rizqun International Hotel on Tuesday (Oct 27), she highlighted agrifood, tourism, renewable energy and logistics as key areas for cooperation.
She said Brunei’s agrifood initiatives, including efforts to meet recognised agricultural and manufacturing standards, could help local businesses expand into regional and international markets.
The Muara Port expansion and development of a Port Trade Zone would also strengthen the Sultanate’s role in trade and logistics.
Tutiaty stressed the importance of closer cooperation under regional frameworks, including BIMP-EAGA, Asean and APEC, to improve connectivity and facilitate investment across borders.
She also highlighted opportunities arising from Indonesia’s development of its new capital, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan, particularly in infrastructure, logistics, tourism and renewable energy.
She said a shared investment agenda should focus on connectivity, sustainable investment, private-sector partnerships and inclusive growth, ensuring investments generate quality jobs, strengthen local businesses and deliver lasting benefits for communities across Borneo. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
