In just two years, the Brunei Innovation Lab (BIL) has grown into a hub that nurtures technopreneurs by providing access to platforms for developing, testing, and bringing to market new ideas and innovations. By fostering collaboration among startups, enterprises, academia, and government institutions, BIL is shaping the future of Brunei’s innovation landscape.
Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha said this recently as the centre celebrated its second anniversary.
The minister also officiated the launch of KLIQ – Online Digital Literacy Platform at the KHUB building amphitheatre.
An initiative co-ideated by BIL, KLIQ is an innovation ecosystem aimed at supporting Bruneian of all ages in the development of digital technology literacy via website and mobile application.
In his keynote address, the minister expressed pride in the journey BIL has undertaken as part of the Brunei Darussalam Digital Economy Masterplan 2025 since its launch in July 2022.
Looking toward the future, the minister believes that innovation will remain the cornerstone of Brunei’s progress.
He said, “Our challenge is not merely to adapt technological changes but also to lead them. By embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and the Internet of Things, we can position Brunei Darussalam as a forward-looking nation that is shaping its own future.”
Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary added that with the launch of KLIQ, “We are unveiling a significant new initiative aimed at enhancing digital literacy across all age groups in Brunei Darussalam.
“This initiative, featuring an innovative digital platform, will act as a gateway for Bruneians to sharpen their digital skills and keep pace with the latest technological advancements.”
More than just a learning tool, the minister said KLIQ is “designed to ignite passion and cultivate a lifelong dedication to innovation”.
He added, “This initiative is driven by a deep commitment to nurturing a digitally literate society, and I believe it will play a key role in shaping the future of innovation in Brunei. It is through efforts like these that we can build a culture of creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship, unlocking new opportunities for the people of our nation.”
Meanwhile, Chairperson of BIL Haji Mohammad Shahnoel bin Haji Mohammad Noeh highlighted the centre’s role as a catalyst for change, touching on BIL’s journey from a bold vision to a thriving ecosystem.
“What began as a modest initiative has grown into a platform where diverse talents collaborate to drive meaningful innovation. This synergy supports our shared goal of building a better Brunei,” he said.
The BIL leadership also extended an invitation to the community, including potential partners, innovators, and technopreneurs, to join in shaping Brunei’s future of innovation.
“The possibilities are endless,” Haji Mohammad Shahnoel said.
“Together, we can drive even greater impact and continue building a vibrant, forward-looking innovation ecosystem for the Sultanate.”
Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary also toured the BIL at the ceremony, led by its general manager Muhammad Saiful Azzam bin Haji Sarpudin.
Since its launch, BIL has formed eight strategic partnerships, organised over 80 innovation-related workshops, and supported more than 1,400 participants.
These efforts have resulted in 45 new ideas being developed, with 15 startups currently moving towards commercialisation. – James Kon
