Speaker of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib, in his closing remarks at the conclusion of the Second Meeting of the 21st LegCo Session yesterday, urged LegCo members to ground their deliberations in credible and authentic facts and data, emphasising that only fact-based discussions can uphold professionalism and courtesy within intellectual discourse.
With the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, this marks the first time a second meeting has been held. It resolved four motion debates, 196 questions to ministers, and one ministerial statement.
The session was conducted in harmony, goodwill and mutual respect, with the cooperation and support of all. In line with the concept of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), it demonstrated the council’s potential to play a significant role in discussing substantive matters in the interest of the people and the nation. He also noted his interest in the discussions, which showed that LegCo members are capable of engaging in deeper, more meaningful deliberations.
He observed that appointed members are striving to contribute by assisting the government through proposals on matters that may be overlooked or receive limited attention.
They also made efforts to clarify plans and share the status of issues faced, reinforcing the importance of this joint role. It is fitting for all parties to work together to ensure alignment in supporting the national development agenda, including the realisation of Brunei Vision 2035.
He also remarked that the discussions during this session were more vibrant. While differing opinions were expressed, he appreciated the spirit of agreeing to disagree, while still respecting one another’s views. He said it was encouraging to see that, despite differences, council members were able to engage in open and mature discussions based on clear, structured, and well-founded information. He expressed appreciation for the LegCo members efforts to get closer to the people and called for these efforts to be further strengthened – particularly through dialogue, discussions, and outreach programmes – as these are effective means to gather public views and feedback on current issues and government policy implementation. He hoped the council will continue to deliberate on issues close to the people’s hearts and called on the members to remain united as a platform for the people’s voice, working together with strong commitment to uphold unity and solidarity as citizens of Brunei Darussalam, preserving the peace, stability, and harmony of the nation.
He also reminded members and attendees of the minister of health’s statement: ‘Health is wealth.’
He added, “Let us all cultivate healthy living practices by maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and preserving mental well-being to strengthen our resilience. Islam also encourages its followers to uphold good health and live a healthy lifestyle, as life and health are trusts that must be preserved in our relationship with Allah the Almighty.” He announced the meeting was adjourned to a date yet to be determined.
(News & pic source: Borneo Bulletin)
