Reaching self-sufficiency in rice production, giving more incentives for local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and assisting the people amid the rising cost of living are among the aspirations of a farmer when asked on his hopes for the future as the nation celebrated 40 years of independence.
Haji Ayub bin Haji Suhaili, an agriculturist who has been engaging in farming business for the last 10 years, said, “If we can be self-sufficient in chicken production, we should also be able to do the same for our staple food production.”
He added, “The i-Ready programme should include assisting the MSMEs. The escalating cost of living has affected some and there is a need to increase the people’s income.
“However people should also not spend beyond their means. Recipients of tithe money are also on the rise.”
Meanwhile, K Goh of Motul Brunei is looking forward to seeing Brunei develop further, especially in terms of healthcare services for the people.
“Brunei has progressed well, especially in the area of medical care to ensure the well-being of its population. In addition, there is Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre with its state-of-the-art facilities, skilled health professionals and universal access to quality healthcare services. Health is gold!” he said.
He added that, for this National Day, he would like to thank 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 for leading the Sultanate to a better future. – Azlan Othman
