Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, in his keynote address at the second Brunei Cybersecurity Conference (CySec) 2024, outlined the government’s initiatives on data sovereignty and protection.
He highlighted that the Sultanate is committed to implementing data protection laws and investing in local data centres and sovereign cloud services to ensure that sensitive information remains under national control.
The minister also said that the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) is leading efforts to strengthen Brunei’s legal framework for data protection. Currently in its final drafting stages, the framework will empower AITI to raise awareness and support organisations in complying with personal data protection laws.
He highlighted that the Unified National Networks Sdn Bhd (UNN) is working on the development of local cloud data centres, reducing reliance on foreign infrastructure while enhancing the security of sensitive data.
The E-Government National Centre (EGNC), he said, is pivotal as the government’s private cloud provider, driving key projects such as the National Information Hub and Digital ID. These initiatives are designed to modernise government services and reinforce Brunei’s commitment to becoming a digitally empowered nation.
In addition, he said, that the Smart Nation Office within the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) is guiding Brunei’s vision of becoming a Smart Nation. Through the Digital Economy Council, this office ensures that Brunei’s digital transformation initiatives align with long-term national goals, positioning the nation for a digitally connected future.
Addressing the importance of securing Brunei’s digital economy and protecting critical information infrastructure (CII), the minister stressed, “In today’s interconnected world, the security of our digital infrastructure is vital for national security, economic progress, and the well-being of our nation. In response, the Government of 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 Darussalamhas enacted the 2023 Cybersecurity Act to protect our critical information infrastructure.”
However, the minister cautioned that legislation alone is insufficient, emphasising the need for strong partnerships across sectors to create a truly resilient digital ecosystem. – James Kon
