Leadership and morals are key to improving the oil and gas (O&G) industry and contributing to the Sultanate’s economic growth.
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 said this in a titah during a visit to Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) headquarters in Seria yesterday.
The monarch said leadership and morals are required in BSP while calling for contractors and subcontractors involved directly and indirectly with the O&G industry to be fair and honest, instead of prioritising self-interest over their organisations’ needs such as staff welfare.
His Majesty also applauded BSP’s localisation efforts resulting in over 90 per cent local staff.
“This localisation initiative should continue and I hope the locals employed at BSP will receive proper training and support to ensure effective knowledge transfer from industry experts,” said the monarch.
His Majesty noted that there are several vacancies in the O&G industry and encouraged BSP and the Department of Energy at the Prime Minister’s Office to work with the Ministry of Education to ensure the next generation is equipped to fill these positions and adapt to industry needs.
The monarch also expressed gratitude to BSP’s expatriates for supporting Brunei’s O&G industry and hoped they will continue filling the knowledge and technological gap to sustain its productivity.
“It is important for agencies in the O&G industry to follow health, safety and environment (HSE) rules and regulations,” said His Majesty.
The monarch noted the risk and finance involved in the industry and advised that processes and research be carried out with utmost care while using technology to achieve the nation’s production goals.
His Majesty also expressed hopes that BSP facilities are in tip-top condition to ensure optimal O&G production rate.
A dialogue session was held following the titah where representatives and key personnel shared their experiences at BSP.
His Majesty also toured the premises including the Cybersecurity Department and the New Data Centre Office, where the monarch underlined the importance of information technology and cyber-security. – Daniel Lim
