Azlan Othman

Due to the 16th Legislative Council (LegCo) Meeting being cut short, amid the COVID-19 outbreak, there needs to be a follow-up platform for partially discussed matters at ministerial level to find out the extent of the planning and implementation of various ministerial initiatives.

This was brought up by Minister of Home Affairs Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong during his wrap-up speech at the conclusion of the annual event yesterday.

The minister applauded the suggestions and views provided by members of the LegCo, especially on the subject of oil and gas dependence.

He added that these views will be thoroughly evaluated by the government, especially about the well-being of the people and the country, which is in line with this year’s four major financial priorities – enhancing investment activities, facilitating businesses, generating competent and employable human resources, and safeguarding public well-being.

These financial priorities are part of a strategic move presented by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah at the start of the LegCo Meeting this year, which will involve not only the government and the private sector, non-but also government organisations (NGOs) and the community.

“Thankfully, through these four focus areas, we have been able to discuss the government’s plans for the Financial Year 2020/2021, especially in diversifying the national economy, increasing the capacity of locals, and strengthening the well-being and safety of the people,” he added.

The minister said, “In the midst of uncertainties due to the world economy, geo-politics and other unforeseen events such as the COVID-19 outbreak, we are grateful to Allah the Almighty and the wise leadership of 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 that our country is still able to record an impressive growth while enjoying significant reforms in terms of infrastructure.”

He extended his gratitude to Allah the Almighty and the monarch for providing the provisions for the next financial year to ensure the preservation of peace and improvement of the people’s well-being.