Brunei Darussalam has taken a significant step towards strengthening data privacy with the approval of the Personal Data Protection Order 2025, as announced by Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, at the 21st Legislative Council meeting on Thursday.
The new law, endorsed by 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 in January 2025, aims to regulate the collection, storage, and processing of personal data, ensuring it aligns with best practices and international standards. The implementation will be phased, with a one-year grace period for compliance.
Under the order, the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (AITI) has been designated as the regulatory body responsible for enforcing data protection policies. Key provisions include: Defining procedures for collecting, using, and disclosing personal data; Mandating private organisations to ensure data accuracy and security; Granting individuals the right to access, correct, or withdraw consent over their personal data; Holding businesses accountable for data management practices.
The minister emphasised that the legislation would enhance public trust, improve corporate accountability, and elevate Brunei’s standing in regional and global digital governance frameworks, including ASEAN initiatives on data protection.
Public awareness and industry readiness
To facilitate compliance, AITI has been conducting awareness campaigns and training programs. The Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) competency program has been introduced, with further training planned for 2025 to equip Data Protection Officers in the private sector.
Public transport improvements
The minister also addressed Brunei’s public transport development, highlighting ongoing efforts to establish a safe, efficient, and reliable transportation system. Plans include: Enhancing core bus networks and improving connectivity; Expanding e-hailing and taxi services; Implementing a Smart Transport System (STS) for real-time vehicle tracking and passenger convenience.
The Request for Proposal (RFP) process to engage service providers for bus and feeder transport systems has been extended to March 11, allowing more participation from interested operators.
These initiatives mark a crucial step in Brunei’s digital transformation and transport modernisation, ensuring better data governance and improved mobility for citizens. – Fadley Faisal
