Brunei’s Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid and Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore at the 17th Brunei Darussalam-Singapore Annual Exchange of Visits on the Environment (BSAEV) held in Singapore on Wednesday.
The meeting also marked the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The Ministers reiterated their commitment to deepening cooperation on environmental protection and climate change, highlighting the steady progress of joint projects in areas such as solid waste management, air quality, water resources, and youth environmental programmes.
Singapore showcased its advancements in packaging waste management, including the upcoming Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) and ongoing efforts to expand the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme. Brunei updated on its initiatives like the Sungai Brunei Darussalam Clean Up project, the addition of portable electrical waste compactors, and the Nationwide Recycling Day.
Both countries also discussed challenges in developing a circular economy, opportunities for regional cooperation, and shared updates on air quality monitoring and pollution control. Additionally, Brunei proposed collaboration with Singapore to enhance water treatment and shared plans to expand its Smart Digital Platform for flood and sewer monitoring.
The Ministers emphasised the importance of engaging youths in environmental awareness through initiatives like the ASEAN Youth Eco-Champions Award and discussed the progress of establishing the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change (ACCC) in Brunei. They also exchanged views on Singapore’s integrated dengue control strategy and Project Wolbachia.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to work closely with ASEAN members on environmental protection and climate change. Brunei will host the 18th BSAEV in 2025. – LYNA MOHAMMAD
