The energy that the youth have along with their creativity and innovative spirit is vital in addressing regional and global challenges, said Acting Deputy Clerk to the Legislative Council (LegCo) Pengiran Hajah Zaidah binti Pengiran Haji Petra during the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) roadshow at the Banquet Hall of LegCo building yesterday.
The programme, organised by the LegCo and AIPA Secretariat, was supported by the Brunei Youth Council (MBB).
“The Legislative Council of Brunei Darussalam is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every voice including the youth’s is heard and valued,” said Pengiran Hajah Zaidah, officiating the programme.
She hoped that the roadshow will significantly benefit participants by providing a deeper understanding of both AIPA and LegCo of Brunei Darussalam.
She added that through presentations, discussions and interactive sessions, youth will gain insights into how AIPA functions and its role in fostering regional cooperation through parliamentary diplomacy.
“On the other hand, parliamentary diplomacy, a key function of our council, involves collaboration with other legislative bodies within ASEAN to tackle common challenges,” she said.
“By fostering dialogue and understanding, we can collectively address issues such as economic development, social justice, and environmental sustainability,” Pengiran Hajah Zaidah added.
The roadshow saw a dialogue session featuring panellists such as LegCo members Yang Berhormat Chong Chin Yee and Yang Berhormat Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan, AIPA Secretary-General Ar Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman and Muhammad Zainul-Akhyaar bin Amer Hairunuddin of ASEAN Youth Brunei Darussalam.
The session provided an opportunity for participants to interact with the panellists, provide comprehensive understandings on role of AIPA in advancing regional cooperation through diplomacy and encouraging dialogue between parliamentarians and youth. The programme concluded with a visit to the LegCo Conference Hall.
The roadshow aimed to promote youth engagement in the development of the ASEAN community, strengthen cooperative relationships and raise awareness on issues in the ASEAN region. – Rokiah Mahmud
