Power infrastructure ready to meet rising demand, says minister

National

March 7, 2025

Brunei Darussalam’s electricity system infrastructure remains capable of meeting the current electricity demand, not only for the needs of the people and residents, but also to support the country’s economic activities including foreign direct investment (FDI), especially those that are able to maintain a high gross domestic product (GDP) value for the country while requiring a low energy intensity level.

This was said by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah while responding to a question raised by Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin during the sixth day of the 21st LegCo session yesterday.

Addressing concerns over Brunei’s capacity to maintain a sustainable electricity supply amid growing FDI, the minister emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring an uninterrupted and secure power supply. He noted that electricity coverage has nearly reached 100 per cent with the extension of the power grid to Mukim Sukang and other rural areas in Belait District.

As part of efforts to foster economic competitiveness and attract FDI while ensuring energy security, the government continues to prioritise power infrastructure enhancements. This includes expanding generation capacity and strengthening the electricity grid network, through the Department of Energy at the Prime Minister’s Office.

In the short and medium term, several new energy projects are underway, including the second phase of the Bukit Panggal Power Plant under the 12th National Development Plan (RKN12) and the construction of a new power plant by Berakas Power Company Sdn Bhd.

Both facilities, incorporating energy-efficient combined-cycle technology, are expected to commence operations between 2027 and 2028. These developments will increase the nation’s total installed power capacity to 1.2 gigawatts – more than a 35-per-cent boost from current levels – ensuring sufficient energy supply to meet future demands.

Looking ahead, the Department of Energy is formulating an Energy Master Plan to guide the electricity sector’s development through 2035 and beyond. This initiative involves close collaboration with key stakeholders, including relevant ministries and the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), to align future electricity needs with national economic objectives.

The minister stressed the importance of long-term planning, particularly in accommodating FDI projects with high energy demands. Given the extended timelines and significant financial allocations required for power infrastructure expansion, investments will be made through either the RKN12 budget or public-private partnership financing models.

Brunei continues to welcome FDI, with the Department of Energy facilitating investors interested in establishing private power plants. Existing major FDI projects, such as Brunei Methanol Company Sdn Bhd, Brunei Fertiliser Industry Company Sdn Bhd, and Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd, have successfully implemented captive power generation solutions.

New industries are also encouraged to explore alternative renewable energy sources, including solar power, for their private energy needs. – Lyna Mohamad

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah during the 21st Legislative Council session. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI

MoD targets safer roads with repair projects lined up

National

March 7, 2025

Minister of Development Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid gave updates on road repair works nationwide and emphasised the importance of ensuring road users’ safety through well-maintained roads and highways.

The minister was responding to questions from Legislative Council (LegCo) members Yang Berhormat Amran bin Haji Maidin, Yang Berhormat Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann and Yang Berhormat Haji Mohd Salleh bin Haji Othman during the 21st LegCo session yesterday.

The minister explained how road repair works through pothole patching and resurfacing. “Pothole patching is a temporary measure and enables fast road repair works to be done so that the repaired roads can be re-opened immediately. With this, traffic disruption can be controlled and the safety of users are guaranteed.”

However, he said, “For roads with more serious damages or severely patched, resurfacing or the rehabilitation of roads are more effective for the long term. Such efforts are in the scheduled actions to be taken by the Ministry of Development (MoD).”

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 government “has allocated BND29.5 million through 18 projects on the resurfacing and repair of road works nationwide under the annual repeat expenses and National Development Plan budgets. Among the projects currently or to be carry out include resurfacing works on Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Highway, Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah Highway, Tungku-Jerudong Highway, Berakas main road, Mentiri main road and several other main roads”, the minister added.

“The MoD is also testing the use of various new technology in the road repair works such as using innovative materials. Such method is being tested currently on Mentiri main road,” Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda said.

On increasing the road quality along the border, the minister said, “A special provision of BND3.8 million has been prepared for upgrading and repairing the network of roads connecting Brunei Darussalam and neighbouring countries.”

For example, he said, “Upgrading works are currently being implemented for Jalan Rasau, the route heading to Sungai Tujoh Control Post border of Brunei Darussalam and Miri, Sarawak, to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

“This aims to make road facilities more comfortable so that more tourists and visitors will visit the Sultanate through land travel.”

Regarding grass-cutting and road cleaning for safety, the minister stated, “Maintaining the road shoulders and medians through grass-cutting and cleaning is essential for traffic safety, particularly at night and in wet conditions. “Overgrown grass can obstruct visibility and conceal road signs, posing danger to motorists, especially in low light or heavy rain.” – James Kon

Climate goals on track with 15 per cent cut in greenhouse gases: Minister

National

March 7, 2025

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah noted that the country has an integrated plan, the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP), which takes a whole-of-government approach to addressing climate change.

Introduced in 2020, the BNCCP has, by 2023, facilitated a 15 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to business-as-usual levels. This reduction results from implementing strategies outlined in the BNCCP, which aligns with the country’s efforts to develop a clearer direction towards achieving the ‘net-zero’ aspiration by 2050.

This statement was in response to an inquiry from Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Momin regarding a master plan to coordinate green project initiatives during the 21st LegCo session.

The minister added that various mitigation measures have been implemented to reduce GHG emissions in the four years since the BNCCP’s introduction.

These measures include reducing GHG emissions in the industrial sector by minimising flaring and venting at oil and gas production facilities and enforcing the mandatory reporting of GHG directive, which requires facilities and agencies to report GHG emission data periodically.

Increased use of renewable energy is being pursued through projects such as the Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) three megawatt (MW) solar project, the 30MW Kampong Belimbing project, the flagship public-private partnership (PPP) project, the 48MW by Hengyi Project Sinar and small-scale rooftop solar projects actively pursued by the commercial sector, including Expro Sdn Bhd, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) and the academic sector, such as Jerudong International School (JIS).

Reduction of GHG emissions from energy generation and use is being addressed through efforts to improve the generation efficiency of all power stations and the implementation of the Energy Efficiency (Standards and Labelling) Order, 2021, to encourage the use of more energy-efficient equipment.

Reduction of GHG emissions from the land transport sector is being achieved through increased sales of electric vehicles (EVs).

Reduction of waste disposal rates is being pursued through waste reduction using the 3R concept (reduce, reuse and recycle), composting and waste-to-energy technology, to reduce land use for landfills and the volume of waste requiring disposal.

Increased carbon absorption (carbon sink) is being achieved through afforestation and reforestation.

Furthermore, efforts to balance climate action with the country’s development needs are crucial to ensure national resources are allocated strategically and balanced between mitigation and adaptation measures and sustainable economic growth. This approach aligns with the aspirations of Brunei Vision 2035 and the Brunei Economic Blueprint.

However, the success of these efforts depends on several factors, notably adequate financial support, continuous capacity building and innovative technological advancements to ensure more effective implementation.

To enhance the effectiveness of mitigation and adaptation, the country, through the Climate Change Office and the Ministry of Education, is actively implementing education and awareness programmes in schools nationwide.

The government is also actively conducting public awareness campaigns through eco-friendly technology exhibitions, community programmes such as tree planting and recycling and disseminating information via social media, radio and television.

The climate change segment on Radio Television Brunei’s Rampai Pagi is a recent initiative, held monthly as a public awareness platform on climate change issues in the country.

Energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) initiatives play a vital role in optimising the use of valuable resources, such as oil and natural gas, for long-term needs and to ensure a stable energy supply. Public involvement is also essential for advancing green initiatives.

The Department of Energy released a video on practical energy-saving tips last year, shared via television broadcasts and social media. Additionally, a guidebook on EEC initiatives will be distributed to encourage public participation, an effort that will help the country optimise valuable resources, such as gas and foster responsible consumption behaviour, the minister stated. However, several challenges have been identified in the implementation of green project initiatives, including the availability of policies for green projects, local capacity in handling green technology and public acceptance of green projects.

Taking a whole-of-nation approach, a project team has been established to implement existing green project initiatives and design new initiatives, in line with the strategies under the BNCCP.

This project team is currently and will continue to, hold stakeholder engagement sessions, including with the private sector, educational institutions and non-governmental organisations, to gather information and obtain feedback regarding their capabilities and availability in exploring green development in the country.

“Overall, these green project initiatives are also closely monitored under the Energy Security and Efficiency Steering Committee (ESESC) to ensure their implementation is according to the set timeline.” – Lyna Mohamad

Reported bullying cases drop from 734 to 447 in a year

National

March 7, 2025

Minister of Education Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh shared the causes of bullying in schools at the 21st Legislative Council (LegCo) session, responding to questions raised by LegCo member Yang Berhormat Zainol bin Haji Mohamed.

The minister identified several factors contributing to students becoming bullies, including: influence from family or parents, where students are subjected to aggressive or violent behaviour at home, or witness family members being abused; lack of discipline; lack of religious education at home; peer and environmental influences; and students who feel they should not be challenged.

Data collected over the past three years shows a reduction in bullying cases, decreasing from 734 in 2023 to 447 in 2024.

Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah also outlined the procedures schools must follow when bullying incidents occur. She stated that the Ministry of Education (MoE) has issued Notification letter No 2/2025, detailing guidelines and action procedures at the school level to address bullying, gang-related behaviour and drug abuse. If a student commits these offences, the MoE, through the Department of Schools, will take appropriate action according to the standard operating procedure (SOP) and collaborate with relevant agencies, such as the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Community Development Department (JAPEM) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).

The actions would first include internal suspension at the school level for five to 10 school days, during which the student will attend school under the supervision of an appointed officer and undertake community work either in or outside school, in collaboration with appropriate government or non-government agencies. Secondly, the student must sign an agreement not to repeat the offence and to comply with school rules, in the presence of parents/guardians and school staff. Thirdly, parents/guardians must sign a letter of consent allowing their child to undergo the actions imposed by the school. Students will also attend counselling sessions at school.

Students who repeat these offences will be required to follow a special programme under the supervision of the National Service Programme Division, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, for a period to be determined.

Preventive measures, based on education and counselling, have been implemented through awareness models and intervention programmes to educate students about negative influences before issues escalate.

The MoE conducts regular monitoring to supervise students throughout school hours, organises awareness programmes and activities and holds the annual BEST (anti-bully) programme in all schools.

If an incident involves criminal elements or drug misuse, authorities such as the RBPF, the Internal Security Department (KDN) and related agencies are involved for immediate action. Regarding the study of bullying causes, the minister reiterated that family influence is a significant factor. Students become bullies when they experience or witness aggressive or violent behaviour at home.

In response to LegCo member Yang Berhormat Amran bin Haji Maidin’s question about the effectiveness of the GINIS programme, the minister explained that it is implemented in collaboration with 10 government agencies: the Prisons Department, RBPF, Department of Islamic Law, Religious Understanding and Counselling Unit, Islamic Da’wah Centre, JAPEM, NCB, Adat Istiadat Negara Department, KDN and Cyber Security Brunei. The programme takes a comprehensive approach to addressing social issues among secondary school students.

Thirty-two secondary schools have participated in the programme, involving 3,911 students last year. It targets Year 9 students, who are entering adolescence and developing greater independence.

Early assessments show that over 60 per cent of students strongly agree that the GINIS initiative raises awareness of negative issues, educates students on positive values and reduces negative influences that can affect discipline and safety at school. The programme’s effectiveness will be continually evaluated for future improvements. – James Kon

Minister of Education Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh at the 21st Legislative Council session. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI

Iftar brings together ministers, diplomatic corps

National

March 7, 2025

The Saudi Arabia Embassy in Brunei Darussalam hosted an iftar gathering at a restaurant in Kampong Jerudong, attended by several ministers and senior government officials.

Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Brunei Darussalam Mohammed Abdullah Al-Buraithin welcomed Cabinet ministers and other guests.

Among the distinguished guests were Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin.

Also present were Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad.

The gathering, also attended by other members of the diplomatic corps, was part of the embassy’s initiative to strengthen diplomatic ties and foster goodwill between Brunei and Saudi Arabia during the holy month of Ramadhan. – Fadley Faisal

Cabinet ministers with Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Brunei Darussalam Mohammed Abdullah Al-Buraithin in a group photo. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI

Cabinet ministers in a group photo with members of the diplomatic corps. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI

Joint charity event supports orphans during Ramadhan

National

March 7, 2025

Twenty-five orphans from families of the Youth Development Centre (PBB), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), Champion 7 and orphans from Kampong Sungai Hanching received donations during the Kasih Ramadhan Programme event held yesterday.

Organised by PBB in collaboration with Champion 7 Welfare Body and Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), the event took place at the multi-purpose hall of PBB and was graced by the guest of honour, Permanent Secretary (Youth) at MCYS Haji Zakaria bin Haji Serudin.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by imam at the PBB Muhamad Nabil bin Haji Ruslan, followed by welcoming remarks from the Assistant Director at the PBB Haswandi bin Haji Osman.

Donations were then presented by the guest of honour and Support Lead Champion at BSP Haji Emran bin Haji Othman.

The event continued with the recitation of Tahlil and Doa Kesyukuran.

The event concluded with a mass iftar, followed by Maghrib, Isyak, and Tarawih prayers.

PBB, in collaboration with Champion 7 Welfare Body, successfully hosted the 4th Kasih Ramadhan Programme in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan 1446 Hijrah.

First introduced in 2019, the Kasih Ramadhan Programme aims to be a platform for PBB members and the public to jointly receive blessings during the holy month of Ramadhan.

The programme also strengthens ties between the centre and its strategic partners who contribute to the success of the charity project. This year, PBB members prepared a ‘PPB Mini Hamper Kasih’ for each orphan invited to the event. The hampers, given as souvenirs for the orphans, included cake and biscuits made from PBB’s own products and essential food items donated by PBB members and individuals. – Lyna Mohamad

Guests at the event. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD

Students gain insights on ASEAN at roadshow

National

March 7, 2025

Some 480 Years 7, 8, and 9 students from Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna Secondary School gained a deeper understanding of ASEAN unity through the ‘Kenali ASEAN’ (Know ASEAN) Roadshow yesterday.

Organised by the Information Department at the Prime Minister’s Office, through the International Affairs Desk, Corporate Relations Unit, Media and Corporate Communications Division, the roadshow aimed to broaden students’ knowledge of ASEAN and its significance.

The event featured a talk by Head of the International Affairs Desk, Corporate Relations Unit, Media and Corporate Communications Division Eddy Iswandy bin Haji Ismail, highlighting ASEAN’s role in regional cooperation in line with its motto: One Vision, One Identity, One Community.

Students also participated in an ASEAN-themed quiz, with prizes presented by the school’s Deputy Principal of Administration, Kua Beng Joo.

The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to cultivate patriotism and ASEAN unity among students, encouraging them to appreciate ASEAN’s objectives while strengthening the department’s engagement with the younger generation as future leaders. – Daniel Lim

Students during the roadshow. PHOTO: INFORMATION DEPARTMENT

Brunei landmarks glow purple for International Women’s Day

National

March 7, 2025

Brunei Darussalam is celebrating International Women’s Day 2025 by illuminating several key landmarks in purple on March 7 and 8.

The Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien (SHOAS) Bridge, Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja, and Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium will be lit up in purple from 7pm to midnight over two nights. The initiative commemorates the contributions and achievements of women while symbolising support for women’s empowerment in society.

According to the Community Development Department (JAPEM), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, purple is the official theme colour of International Women’s Day, aligning with international practices. The colour represents justice, dignity and solidarity in advocating for women’s rights and interests. The illuminations also reflect Brunei Darussalam’s support for United Nations (UN) initiatives in empowering women globally.

As part of the campaign, the public is encouraged to capture photographs of the illuminated landmarks and share them on social media using the hashtags #HWA2025 or #IWD2025.

The initiative not only raises awareness of gender equality but also fosters recognition of women’s achievements in various fields.

It is hoped that the initiative will further strengthen unity and appreciation for the contributions of women in the Sultanate and worldwide. – James Kon

Bank offers exclusive dining rebates for Ramadhan

National

March 7, 2025

Standard Chartered is offering an exclusive credit card promotion, providing cardholders with up to 50 per cent cash rebate when dining out with their Standard Chartered credit cards during the holy month of Ramadhan. The promotion will run every Saturday and Sunday from tomorrow until March 30.

To qualify, customers must spend a minimum of BND75 at any of the participating partners during the promotion period. Participating partners include Anjung Saujana Restaurant, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Emperor’s Court, iLotus Restaurant, Margherita Pizzeria, Tandoor Restaurant, and several others.

The cash rebate varies depending on the card type. Cardholders using the Standard Chartered Visa Infinite credit card will receive a 50 per cent cash rebate, while those using the Standard Chartered Visa Platinum and Hua Ho Platinum Mastercard will enjoy a 35 per cent rebate. Cardholders with the Standard Chartered Visa Gold and Mastercard Gold credit cards will receive a 15 per cent rebate.

The cash rebate is capped at BND50 per day and limited to the first transaction per cardholder.

The rebate will be reflected on credit card statements in May.

Standard Chartered Head of Retail Products and Digital Aisah Razali said, “We are committed to providing exceptional value and rewarding our customers, particularly during this meaningful season. This promotion allows cardholders to enjoy their iftar gatherings with family and friends while benefiting from significant savings. On behalf of Standard Chartered Bank, I would like to wish Selamat Berpuasa to all our valued clients and stakeholders.”

Ramadhan iftar buffet showcases signature roast lamb, local favourites

National

March 7, 2025

YELO Café at The Brunei Hotel is offering a Ramadhan iftar buffet until March 29, featuring a variety of dishes designed to delight diners.

A highlight of the buffet is the signature roast lamb leg, served daily at the live carvery with a choice of mint and garlic, mushroom and black pepper sauces – a much-anticipated favourite during Ramadhan. Guests can also enjoy chilli crab on alternate days, along with a live pasta station.

General Manager of The Brunei Hotel Andy Goh, shared: “We are delighted to welcome guests to break fast with us during this holy month and enjoy our specially curated iftar buffet featuring familiar local dishes.”

The menu changes daily to offer variety, featuring an expanded selection of appetisers such as cucur sayur, chicken and beef satay, and new skewers with dipping sauces. Main courses include beef, chicken, fish, vegetables and rice dishes, all prepared in locally inspired styles. Desserts range from Western treats and traditional Malay kueh to an ice cream station. Beverages include chilled drinks, air bandung, teh tarik and coffee.

For menu updates, patrons can scan the QR code available on The Brunei Hotel’s Instagram and Facebook pages.

The buffet is priced at BND31.90 per adult and BND17.90 per child (aged six to 12). Group bookings of 10 guests will receive a BND20 YELO voucher, with terms and conditions applying.

Limited free parking is available at Wisma Jaya basement from 6pm, on a first-come, first-served basis.

A surau is also available for prayers after breaking fast. – Izah Azahari

Borneo Bulletin OnlineThe Independent Newspaper in Brunei Darussalam, Sabah and Sarawak

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