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 hoped to see courage among the youth stepping out from their comfort zones by taking strides in penetrating regional and international markets, leveraging the platforms paved by the government through agreements and memoranda of understanding with other countries to facilitate cooperation in trade and investment.
The monarch said this in a titah during the 18th National Youth Day celebration at the International Convention Centre in Berakas yesterday, adding that the National Youth Day, celebrated every August 1, is a recognition of contributions, sacrifices, achievements and successes of youth in the national development.
“The phrase ‘belia dan negara berpisah tiada’ or ‘youth and the country are inseparable’, is relevant as the youth are pioneers of the country,” His Majesty said.
“The youth have proven themselves to be agents of change for the future, capable of realising the country’s aspiration by 2035.”
His Majesty acknowledged that the youth have pioneered various entrepreneurial fields including in the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The monarch said youth contributions encompass various fields, including economy, digital, social innovation, agribusiness, creative industry, volunteerism and policy-making.
His Majesty also said over 17,000 youth have registered under the Registrar of Company and Business Names.
Meanwhile, in the aspect of leadership, the monarch welcomed active participation of youth in dialogues and policy-making at national and regional levels.
His Majesty added, “The government will continue to provide effective platforms such as the National Youth Congress and Youth Town Hall, as well as participation in regional policy forums that serve as a medium for the youth to share their ideas and aspirations.”
The monarch also congratulated the youth for winning the ASEAN Prize award for the first time, as well as the athletes who brought glory to the nation by winning medals at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia.
His Majesty believed that, in the pursuit of success, youth must maintain the Bruneian characteristic of noble behaviour by adhering and respecting religious laws and regulations.
“We need not feel inferior or marginalised if we do not participate in sports not permitted by religion or law, as it is Brunei’s principle,” His Majesty said.
Ending the titah, His Majesty congratulated all youth in the country for their commitment and togetherness in developing and advancing the country. – Rokiah Mahmud
