In the Motion for Royal Speech, members of the Legislative Council at the second day of the First Meeting of the 22nd Legislative Council (LegCo) session expressed their thanks and loyalty to 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.

LegCo members conveyed their gratitude to His Majesty for his leadership in guiding the nation with wisdom and deep concern for the well-being of its people. They also expressed appreciation for His Majesty’s presence and delivering the titah during the ceremonial opening of the First Meeting of the 22nd Legislative Council session. They also expressed strong support for His Majesty’s titah, emphasising the need for strategic measures to safeguard Brunei Darussalam’s economy amid global geopolitical uncertainties.

The members highlighted the importance of economic diversification, strengthening private sector participation and enhancing national resilience in line with the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035.

LegCo Member Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Yusof underscored the need for coordinated national strategies to address global economic challenges such as supply chain disruptions, rising commodity prices and food security concerns.

He also called for effective implementation of national blueprints, including the Manpower, Economic and Social blueprints, to attract foreign investment and improve the business ecosystem. LegCo Member Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin reaffirmed support for His Majesty’s call to accelerate economic growth and strengthen the government’s fiscal position.

He also highlighted the importance of empowering micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and expanding market opportunities for local products beyond the domestic market.

LegCo Member Yang Berhormat Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan stressed the urgency of diversifying the economy through sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, creative industries and downstream industries, while also strengthening the skills and expertise of the local workforce.

He also raised concerns over road conditions as well as water and electricity supply disruptions affecting public welfare. LegCo Member Yang Berhormat Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abdul Salam highlighted the need to safeguard national food security amid global uncertainties and called for greater support for the private sector and MSMEs. She also emphasised the importance of strengthening integrity and transparency in governance, in line with His Majesty’s firm stance against corruption.

Meanwhile, LegCo Member Yang Berhormat Amran bin Haji Maidin emphasised the importance of strengthening domestic economic activities, including food production and local enterprises, to ensure long-term resilience. He also stressed the need for effective implementation and coordination of government policies to ensure that development initiatives deliver tangible benefits to the people.

Members collectively reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the government in addressing national challenges and ensuring sustainable development for the well-being of the people and the nation.

(news & pic source: Borneo Bulletin)