Multicultural environment key to IT development in Brunei

|     Nazirul Hakeem A     |

Brunei is at a high level in terms of the use of Information Technology (IT). Many countries have gained an advantage and success by using IT.

This was said in a lecture, organised by the Prime Minister’s Office, on the ‘Impact of IT Revolution on Developing Economies’, delivered by Nagavara Ramarao Narayan Murthy, the Chairman Emeritus of Infosys, held yesterday at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

He pointed out that the power of ideas is important. Prior to the concept of globalisation, only those who are rich and powerful had the opportunity to enhance the quality of life.

Dato Paduka Awg Hj Ali bin Hj Apong (L), Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office presenting a token of appreciation to Nagavara Ramarao Narayan Murthy, the Chairman Emeritus of Infosys. – NAZIRUL HAKEEM A

However, he gave an example of China of being the largest exporter in the world, where the country exports 2 trillion dollars worth of good in 2012. India has also become the software centre of the world.

He also said that 1,010 multinationals have set up their Research and Development operations in India.

“This means, in this age of globalisation, as long as you have a distinctive advantage and as long as you can sell, there are no limits for opportunities,” the Chairman said.

“Knowing the kind of extraordinary people your country have, it is just the question of creating a set of unique advantages for the global companies to come here and make Brunei the centre of their knowledge acquisition, research and development facilities, financial operations and enrich Brunei as well as the corporate.”

The key in developing IT in Brunei is by having a multicultural environment and be open to talents and attract talents.

Domestically, Brunei has done a very good job. With the country’s previous long establishment of IT, Brunei is already at a high level in terms of the use of IT in the domestic market.

In making IT a part of the economical drive, it is vital for foreign companies to come and set up their operations in Brunei with less red tape. Some countries in the world have made it easy for foreign investors to come over and set up their businesses.

International talents or expertise are also needed in order to share their knowledge and contribute to the local and international operations based in Brunei.

He added that the international connectivity of Brunei to the outside world has to be very good.

Present at yesterday’s event were Dato Paduka Awg Hj Ali bin Hj Apong, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Awg Adi Shamsul bin Hj Sabli, Deputy Permanent Secretary (IT & e-Government) at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Also present were officers and staff of government agencies and academic institutions.