Izah Azahari
The recent Labour Force Survey report found unemployment rate decreased from 7.3 per cent to 4.9 per cent in 2021, marking an achievement through the support of industry players, training institutions and private companies in employing and providing opportunities for locals to be an integral part of the workforce.
Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman highlighted this in his speech during the launch of Recruitment Fair at Bridex International Conference Centre yesterday.
The minister urged vigilance and to not lose sight to achieve Brunei Vision 2035, and in ensuring the workforce stays receptive with the ever-changing world of work, emphasis will continue to be placed on three important agendas.
The first agenda highlighted by the minister was advocating the importance of life-long learning as it is crucial for the country to realise the importance of maximising the full potential of the Bruneian labour force by inculcating lifelong learning through upskilling and reskilling, not only for individuals making major shifts in job roles, but also to constantly learn and upgrade to stay abreast of the rapidly evolving global market.
The second agenda is to adapt inclusive and progressive workplaces promoting an excellent working environment with organisations urged to adopt employment practices that create and sustain an inclusive workplace, as well as promote employees’ well-being.
“Corporate leaders are also encouraged to take an active role and to invest in understanding as well as addressing the challenges faced by our workforce, including those with different abilities,” said the minister, noting that this will support talent retention and attraction, produce a more productive and engaged workforce.
The minister also noted several policies and guidelines introduced by 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 Darussalam in supporting this agenda, such as the Employment Order, 2009; Employment Agencies Order, 2004; Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1984; Workplace Safety and Health Order, 2009; and the Immigration Act among others, which comprehensively cover labour matters.
He noted Brunei Darussalam as a member of the Convention of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in which the Labour Department has also made extensive efforts to achieve the standards outlined in the convention.
The department is also actively striving towards the digitalisation of labour processes whereby the National Labour Management System (NLMS) will be the platform to further ease the current labour procedures.
The minister also highlighted the strengthening of ties and collaboration between the private and public sectors.
“We have seen a boost in terms of the local workforce where the recent Labour Force Survey for 2021 has recorded an increase from over 83,000 to 86,000 locals in the private sector,” said the minister.
He added that to sustain this performance and for continuous growth, cohesive efforts are required from all key stakeholders – the private sector, the government, and individuals – to further maximise the creation of new job opportunities for those to be adaptable and dynamic in order to prepare them for the future.
“Recruitment Fair will provide a platform for visitors to gather information related to the labour market such as job opportunities and career pathway, upskilling and reskilling initiatives including guidelines introduced by the government,” added the minister, while encouraging participation and engagement in the activities lined up during the event.
