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 appreciation for Legislative Council (LegCo) members was highlighted during the motion of votes of thanks on the second day of the first meeting of the 21st LegCo session yesterday.
Minister of Religious Affairs Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman delivering the motion, commended the LegCo members for their commitment to advancing the national development agenda through dialogues, engagement sessions and working visits. Their dedication, he said, strengthens the council’s deliberation methods in line with Syuraa principles to find well-accepted solutions that serve public interest.
The minister emphasised that the appointed members’ commitment aligns with His Majesty’s vision for an effective LegCo, as outlined in Brunei Darussalam’s Constitution.
While its current structure remains temporary, it does not diminish its role as an open platform for discussion, reflecting the progress of Perlembagaan Negara (Pindaan), 2004.
He noted that the council’s deliberation system serves as a precautionary measure before taking further steps. This includes gradual reforms, such as increasing the frequency of sessions to twice a year, as consented by His Majesty in his titah at the opening ceremony.
Additionally, updates to procedures and work processes in accordance with the Standing Orders will further enhance the council’s effectiveness.
The minister also underscored the importance of leveraging grassroots structures, including mukim and village consultative councils, alongside socio-cultural and welfare organisations in strengthening national development.
On the economy, he highlighted statistics cited by His Majesty in his titah, noting that diversification efforts have yielded encouraging results. His Majesty remains confident in the nation’s ability to sustain economic growth through new activities. However, the minister reminded that while this progress is promising, as His Majesty stated, complacency must be avoided and resources utilised wisely and responsibly.
He also acknowledged that after more than 40 years of independence, Brunei has produced a new generation of professionals across various fields, including religious studies, who contribute significantly to national development.
Concluding his motion, the minister expressed Junjung Kasih to His Majesty for his presence and titah at the opening ceremony, describing it as a testament to His Majesty’s wise leadership and deep concern for the nation and its people. – Lyna Mohamad
