Brunei Vision 2035 belongs to every citizen and resident of the Sultanate, and as such, inclusive participation from all levels of society, including youth, women, entrepreneurs and non-governmental organisations, is essential, said Minister of Foreign Affairs II Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof during the Second Meeting of the 21st Legislative Council Session yesterday.
He emphasised the importance of cooperation, innovation and a strong national spirit in achieving the vision.
“The underlying journey towards realising Brunei Vision 2035 requires all parties to work together constructively. Since its first implementation in 2007, the discussion surrounding Brunei Vision 2035 has been thoroughly discussed constructively in this legislative chamber, which reflects the maturity and shared responsibility to implement effective strategies to achieve the goals of Brunei Vision 2035 and ensure that no one is left behind,” he said.
The minister also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to maintaining foreign policies that continue to safeguard Brunei’s sovereignty, security and stability. “The nation will continue to strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations and expand its role both regionally and globally,” the minister added.
In the context of ASEAN, the minister explained that Brunei plays a crucial role in promoting unity, peace and prosperity in the region, particularly in achieving the goals of ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
“Brunei is also committed to addressing global challenges such as pandemics, climate change, maritime security and economic resilience in collaboration with international partners,” he said.
This commitment is also evident on the global stage, as the minister highlighted that the Sultanate remains steadfast in upholding the principles of multilateralism and adhering to international law, while actively participating in peacekeeping missions and humanitarian aid efforts.
“Through bilateral ties and Brunei’s participation in international organisations such as ASEAN, the Commonwealth, OIC and the United Nations, the Sultanate has gained invaluable benefits. These include capacity-building opportunities in security, economics, health, education, connectivity and culture, as seen in initiatives like the Young Leaders Programme with Singapore, as well as scholarships and workshops offered by countries including Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia and China.”
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan also noted that they will continue to assist other agencies in exploring new economic opportunities, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, education, tourism and energy. He added that these efforts aim to support Brunei’s economic growth in building a dynamic and resilient economy.
While the minister acknowledged that Brunei is not immune to global uncertainties, including political, economic and technological rivalries among major powers, as well as conflicts in the Middle East and Europe, these factors pose additional challenges to national development efforts, adding that “We must remain resilient, responsive, and adaptable to changes.”
(News source: Borneo Bulletin)
