British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Richard Lindsay who will attend the Youth Empowerment Conference on September 7 shared about the relevance of a Global Mindset based on his service and experience.

He also shared on what Bruneian Youth can gain from recognising the value of understanding the international stage of the world, according to a press release from Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd, who along with Curious Mind is organising the conference, sponsored by Baiduri Bank (Platinum Sponsor), TOTAL (Gold Sponsor) and BLNG (Silver Sponsor).

Given the trend of the world’s economic powerhouses moving towards protectionism instead of collaboration, independence instead of interdependence; is promoting Global Mindset to our next generations even relevant?

As we see an increasing move towards protectionism and populism in certain parts of the world, I think it is all the more important for the next generation to be thinking internationally and to understand and think about different approaches to economic development.

Historically there have been waves of protectionism and liberalism. Those who are most prepared for the next wave are those who have the most Global Mindset.

How important is it for young people in Brunei to have a Global perspective?

Brunei, like Britain, is a trading nation. Its economy is currently very heavily dependent upon the ability to export its hydrocarbons and to import its foods and consumer goods.

It is essential that Brunei’s young people understand the pressures on the global economy and the way that will affect their own day-to-day lives.

Bruneians need to find new ways to use their talents and this inevitably means looking beyond Brunei’s own borders, and outside its own population.

What advice would you give to young people without the resources to go overseas to grapple with the concept of Global Mindset? How would you advise them to develop Global Mindset?

Take advantage of the amazing opportunities which this interconnected world brings. Read voraciously, subscribe to the best international journalism, including from, for example, the Financial Times, Guardian, BBC; be a critical consumer of knowledge.

You have been posted in Brazil, Australia, Zimbabwe and now Brunei with your diplomatic role. The four countries couldn’t be more different than another. What are the rules to adapting to new environments?

Very simply: be fascinated in everything, ask as many questions as possible – and listen to the answers, and try to leave your own prejudices behind.

Having been in Brunei for two years now, what is your opinion on the youth in Brunei? What do you think are our key strengths? What areas do you think we can improve on?

I have been inspired and energised by those many young people in Brunei who have taken the initiative, and made such progress in pursuing their passions. I encourage everyone to believe in themselves, but also to find connections – both within the country and outside it.

What support can the youth in Brunei expect from the British Embassy?

We have the ability to help shine a spotlight on individuals who do things out of the ordinary and who are prepared to take risks.

We are particularly interested in sustainability, efforts to combat climate change, protect the environment and reduce plastic pollution.

We will seek to raise the profile of those whose entrepreneurial spirit helps others, or can make links between disparate communities. We want to do our bit to help young people inspire others.