Brunei must act now with full vigor and urgency

DEAR Editor,

I am surprised that the two letters "Time to start swinging, Brunei" and "Brunei: Don't commit the error of Nauru" were published in The Brunei Times. The writers are candid with the facts. The threats are real. The status quo is far from desirable to tackle the challenges ahead.

Given the emerging trends, the country has to adapt and be prepared to change. Otherwise, it may face decline in the long run. Dubai Model or Singapore Model, they are good for references. Brunei has its own unique situation. Its culture and its policies are not the same as in those two countries. Therefore, Brunei must develop its own model that takes into consideration its own conditions.

In my opinion, the critical success factors to develop a viable Brunei Model include:

1) Commitment at all levels.

2) Empowerment

3) Accountability

4) Foreign Talent

To start with, you may need the help of a consulting firm such as McKinsey, the Boston Group, etc to be the facilitator to work with a high-power steering committee. They will come up with the long-term plans and the timeline for implementation.

Candid Friend

Singapore