​Stateless permanent residents will now pay a reduced registration fee of BND1, down from BND3, while treatment consultations and services for stroke, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer will be aligned with the Ministry of Health’s payment scheme for citizens – provided free of charge.

Minister of Health Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar announced the policy change in his motion of thanks on the second day of the first meeting of the 21st Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

The new policy, effective immediately, reflects 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’s sensitivity and concern for the welfare and well-being of citizens and residents,ensuring they receive treatment without being burdened financially.

The minister underscored the significance of His Majesty’s titah on the role of the LegCo in debating matters, including providing feedback on government policies to ensure they genuinely produce a positive impact on the people’s well-being. He stressed that this responsibility must be fully upheld.

He said as council members, they must carry out their duties with integrity, think openly, consult regularly, and act proactively as instructed. This includes adhering to the updated procedures and the Code of Ethics formulated to safeguard the welfare and well-being of the people.

“I feel very honoured and truly pleased to witness His Majesty’s government, through various ministries, actively promoting initiatives to achieve the progress and prosperity of the nation, all in the interest of the welfare of its people and residents,” he said.

The minister also expressed hopes that the efforts being implemented would receive the blessings and guidance of Allah the Almighty in determining the strategic direction towards achieving Brunei Vision 2035.

(News & pic source: Borneo Bulletin)