Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Zainol bin Haji Mohamed, in his motion of thanks during the second day of the first meeting of the 21st LegCo session yesterday, expressed his gratitude 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’s titah at the opening ceremony of the 21st LegCo session.

He noted that His Majesty’s far-sighted vision ensures the nation’s development and prosperity continue to be maintained and strengthened.

Yang Berhormat Zainol conveyed his appreciation for His Majesty’s generosity and wisdom in allowing LegCo sessions to be held twice a year, which will further enhance the institution’s reputation and effectiveness in serving the people’s well-being.

He emphasised that LegCo members carry a great responsibility to ensure every deliberation is presented with solutions based on reliable analysis to improve the effectiveness of government policies.

He also stressed that His Majesty’s hope to introduce a Code of Ethics for LegCo members is an important development that will ensure integrity and professionalism remain the foundation of every action and decision.

With this guidance, he added, the LegCo will gain greater respect and trust from the people.

On healthcare, he highlighted that the expansion of access to health services for stateless permanent residents reflects the government’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of all.

To ensure smooth implementation, he stressed the importance of a monitoring and resource allocation system that guarantees equitable and effective healthcare delivery.

These efforts, he added, must also align with long-term strategies to maintain a sustainable healthcare system that is prepared for future challenges.

On economic growth, he noted that despite successes in the non-oil and gas sector, more efforts are needed to ensure sustainability.

He said dependence on the energy sector remains high, and economic diversification mustbe further strengthened. The development of high-value industries such as green technology, smart agriculture and the digital economy must be accelerated to enhance national competitiveness.

He also underscored the importance of the tourism and services sector, stating that Brunei has great potential in these areas.

With a more comprehensive marketing strategy and a strengthened tourism ecosystem, he said the country could become a preferred destination for international visitors, benefiting the local economy.

In addressing global challenges, Yang Berhormat Zainol stressed the urgent need to develop local technological capabilities. He said that artificial intelligence (AI) offers vast opportunities to enhance competitiveness and efficiency across sectors.

Efforts must be intensified to strengthen technological infrastructure, promote research and innovation, and empower human capital in high-tech industries.

He called for stronger collaboration between the government, academia and private industry to ensure Brunei is not only a user of technology but also a contributor to its development.

He emphasised the need for holistic strategic planning to ensure digital transformation benefits society while creating new job opportunities.

To achieve Brunei Vision 2035, he stressed that every policy deliberated in the LegCo must account for global developments and challenges.

An inclusive and forward-looking approach is essential to achieving national goals in a sustainable and effective manner. This, he said, requires synergy between the public and private sectors, as well as active public participation in national development strategies.

He added that all policies introduced must truly reflect the people’s interests and bring long-term benefits to the country.

Meanwhile, LegCo member Yang Berhormat Amran bin Haji Maidin, in his motion of thanks, also expressed his gratitude to His Majesty for delivering a meaningful titah at the opening of the 21st LegCo session, which aligns with Brunei Vision 2035.

He supported the decision to hold LegCo sessions twice a year, noting that it would allow for more structured deliberations and provide additional time to discuss national policies raised by the public.

Additionally, he expressed support for the introduction of welfare provisions for stateless permanent residents, ensuring they receive medical benefits on par with citizens.​

(News & pic source: Borneo Bulletin)