​Legislative Council (LegCo) members participated in the 31st annual meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) at the International Convention Centre in the Philippines from November 23-26.

LegCo member Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Suyoi bin Haji Osman led the delegation comprising six LegCo members and officials from the Department of Councils of State. The meeting was also attended by representatives from 18 other countries.

President of the Senate of the Philippines Juan Miguel F Zubiri, in his speech during the opening ceremony, emphasised the importance of strengthening sustainable relationships to achieve peace, prosperity and sustainability in the post-pandemic era and to make the 21st Century belong to the Asia-Pacific region.

Parliament members were urged to always be determined to keep moving forward in the face of challenge, in line with the theme of the meeting.

During the plenary session for politics and security, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Suyoi bin Haji Osman shared the efforts from the Sultanate in combating cross-border crimes including terrorism, money laundering and cybersecurity, by keeping in close cooperation with friendly countries to ensure a coordinated response.

To achieve sustainable development, LegCo member Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin highlighted the importance of developing an infrastructure that is sustainable and fosters innovative technology that supports economic activities in line with the national vision.

On universal health coverage, the Sultanate remains committed to strengthening its primary healthcare system.

LegCo member Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Yusof said Brunei continues to ensure the provision of universal health coverage as well as accessible and equitable healthcare for all. Women’s involvement in sustainable development efforts was also brought up during the conference, with LegCo member Yang Berhormat Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Momin sharing the national initiatives in women’s empowerment such as the Plan of Actions on Women.

The meeting unanimously endorsed a joint communique, and 10 resolutions were passed, showcasing APPF member countries’ commitment in strengthening regional parliamentary cooperation in issues of common interest.

(News Source: Borneo Bulletin)