BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah has called for stronger action to address global economic uncertainty, while urging members of the Legislative Council to focus on key national priorities.
The monarch opened the 22nd session of the Legislative Council in his first public appearance since undergoing knee replacement surgery in January.
In his titah, His Majesty said Brunei must remain alert the impact of geopolitical tensions on the economy, particularly as fluctuations in energy commodity prices could affect the country’s main source of revenue. Oil prices have surged past US$100 per barrel as the war in the Persian Gulf deepens, sending markets into a tailspin over fears of a prolonged conflict.
The sultan stressed that Brunei is not immune to these global pressures and called on members of the Legislative Council to work together in addressing any economic uncertainty.
Economic diversification remains key priority
To bolster the government’s fiscal position, the monarch urged a sustained push into new sectors and strategic investments that accelerate economic diversification.
“The need to develop new areas is no longer a choice but a necessity,” he said, adding that progress must be balanced with prudent spending and high-impact initiatives.
His Majesty also called for new approaches to bolster the private sector and MSMEs through a stronger business ecosystem.
On infrastructure and public safety, the sultan expressed sympathy over a recent road tragedy that claimed the lives of two cyclists. He called on the relevant authorities, particularly the National Road Safety Council, to look not only at legislation and enforcement, but also at improving safe infrastructure for road users.
In the titah, he also emphasised the importance of strengthening an ethical work culture, integrity and good governance across both the public and private sectors.
“The government will continue to take an aggressive stance against corruption and abuse of power, particularly in sectors involving service delivery and enforcement,” he said.
His Majesty concluded by urging Legislative Council members to prioritise strategic issues and generate pragmatic, innovative ideas to help address the nation’s challenges.
“Our goal is clear — to build a progressive and forward-looking nation that balances innovation with financial sustainability, while safeguarding the well-being of the people,” he said.